Article Posted on : - Mar 20, 2010

A file photo of BRAHMOS supersonic cruise. Brahmand photo

CHENNAI (PTI): India is working on a long-term plan to manufacture indigenously all major defence equipment used in combat zones as part of its modernisation programme, a top military official said.

"Modernisation of defence is a very high priority matter with the Government of India. We are looking up to 2027. All the services (Army, Navy and Airforce) have drawn up their plans", Vice-Chief of Army Staff Lt General P C Bharadwaj told reporters at the sidelines of the passing out parade at Officers Training Academy here on Saturday.

He pointed out that India has progressed in a big way in making indigenous defence equipment like Brahmos supersonic cruise missile and said a lot of technical equipment used in battle is being produced indigenously.

On permanent commissioning of women officers, he said it is an ongoing process. "We look at great expansion in the Indian army for very talented young women", he said, adding that the Army would progress, based on its needs.

To a question on Sukhna land scam in which retired Lt General Avadhesh Prakash is facing a court martial, he said the matter is subjudice. "The Army is an establishment which lives on discipline. If we even see the smallest aberration, we take action immediately to investigate it and rectify it.

We accept no dilution of standards.