Noida: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday dedicated the country’s largest aero engine test bed to the nation in Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh. The facility, manufactured by Raphe mPhibr Pvt Ltd, was hailed by Singh as a milestone of India’s “new technological revolution”.

He praised the company’s founders, Vishal Mishra and Vivek Mishra, calling their achievement remarkable. “Despite handling the responsibility of the defence ministry for 6-6.5 years, I had never seen such young people setting up such a big and innovative establishment,” Singh said.

Why are drones so important to modern warfare?

The defence minister underlined the growing role of drones in combat strategies.

“Generally, when we hear the word ‘aircraft’, images of Tejas, Rafale and fighter jets come to mind. This is natural, as these are all combat aircraft. However, in today’s changing times, drones have emerged as a significant force in this field. Drones are now being deployed even in areas where large equipment cannot reach,” he explained.

Referring to global conflicts, he added: “If you closely observe the Russia-Ukraine conflict, you will notice that drones have been used extensively – earlier, now, and continuously. This proves that understanding the importance of drones and incorporating them into our war policy has become absolutely essential.”

Can Indian drones evade global powers?

He also claimed that India’s indigenous technology had reached a stage where even the most advanced nations could not track it.

“Today, the youth is not just creating a company, but creating a new thinking and direction in the defence sector. Now when Indian drones fly, neither America nor China will be able to detect them – this is a very big achievement,” he said.

What role does Aatmanirbhar Bharat play?

The minister linked the achievement to the government’s self-reliance mission.

“A strong reflection of the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat was seen here today,” he said.

He also highlighted the journey of drones.

“In their early days, they were used only for surveillance and reconnaissance. Later, some countries began developing combat drones, and many nations started deploying them in border conflicts. Countries that invested in drone technology have gained a significant edge in this field, while many others have been left behind. From my six to six-and-a-half years of experience (as defence minister), I can say that the reality of today’s defence sector rests on aircraft technology and drones.”

Praising domestic efforts, Singh said, “Earlier, we had to import drones, but today we are designing, developing, and manufacturing them domestically. Many entrepreneurs in the country are contributing to this progress, and no praise is enough for their efforts.”

About Operation Sindoor?

The defence minister also recalled the success of Operation Sindoor.

“When determination, courage and science come together, even the impossible becomes possible. During Operation Sindoor, our forces finished off the enemy within 22 minutes. Our Army showed the mirror to terrorists and their patrons, which they had never imagined. If Operation Sindoor is the story of the bravery of our Army personnel on one hand, then on the other hand, Aatmanirbhar Bharat is the story of the innovation of our scientists and youths. I am proud that our armed forces have rapidly adopted all these instruments made by our youths and industries,” Singh said.

Who else attended the event?

The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, CDS General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary Defence Production Sanjeev Kumar, Rajya Sabha MP Surendra Nagar, Gautam Buddh Nagar MP Mahesh Sharma, and Noida MLA Pankaj Singh.