Rama Krishna Sangem
Reinforcing the vision of self-reliance in defence manufacturing, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on October 18, Saturday jointly flagged-off the first batch of BrahMos missiles manufactured at the BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility Centre in Lucknow.
The state-of-the-art facility, a key component of UP Defence Industrial Corridor, was virtually inaugurated by Raksha Mantri on May 11, 2025, and within five months, the first batch of missiles was ready for deployment.
Speaking on the occasion, the Defence Minister described BrahMos as not just a missile, but a symbol of the growing indigenous capabilities of the nation. “The missile features a traditional warhead and an advanced guided system and possesses the capability to strike long distances at supersonic speeds. This combination of speed, accuracy, and power makes BrahMos one of the best systems in the world. It has become the backbone of our Armed Forces,” he added.
Highlighting the role of BrahMos in Operation Sindoor, Rajnath Singh stated that the missile demonstrated that it has moved far beyond a trial and has become the greatest practical proof of national security. He stated that every inch of Pakistan’s territory is now within the reach of BrahMos. “Operation Sindoor is proof that victory has become a habit for us, and now we must further enhance our capabilities. The operation was just a trailer. It has made Pakistan realise what might follow,” he added.
Rare earths must be produced in India
India must produce rare materials used in defence and aerospace to become a technology creator and safeguard its technological sovereignty,” said Rajnath Singh. He was dedicating to the nation a Titanium and Superalloy Materials Plant at PTC Industries’ Strategic Materials Technology Complex in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on October 18, 2025.
Emphasising the importance of Rare Earth Materials used in defence, space, electronics, and other sectors, he noted that only certain countries have the capacity to refine these materials and make high-end products. In this context, he said, the plant inaugurated, which is one of the first private sector manufacturing units to make aero-engine components and super alloy components etc., will go a long way in helping India produce rare materials.
