Defence Technology and R&D Ecosystems: Harnessing AI, Unmanned Systems, Robotics, Cyber, Electronic Warfare, Space and Quantum Technologies for Military Reforms

Global conflicts, skirmishes and warfare in the 21st century are being driven more by advances in disruptive military technologies of artificial intelligence (AI), unmanned systems, robotics, cyber capabilities, electronic warfare, space-based systems and quantum science, vis-à-vis the traditional defence technology advances of capability improvements through better design features of weapon platforms, systems and equipment. These emerging technologies are transforming system capabilities. Consequently, they are reorienting the military, including concepts, strategies and doctrines of warfighting; the iterative optimisation, restructuring, generation and composition of military forces; the budget share and resource optimisation, the budget allocation and control; procurement policies, procedures and acquisition models; innovation, research and development (R&D) and industry ecosystems.

India, in an era of geopolitical uncertainties, global contestation and internal security challenges, finds itself facing multiple threats on a multi- domain front and is, thus, compelled to expedite the realisation of its own defence technology transition roadmap, as envisaged in its military reform architecture. India’s defence reform architecture itself has shifted focus from the traditional emphasis on force optimisation, procurement efficiency and budget constraint strategies to the new paradigm of force restructuring, capability-building and technology-centric self-reliance. This is with a view to undertake future integrated multi-domain operations. The armed forces are, thus, transforming towards a data-driven, network-centric multi-domain warfare.

This article presents a comprehensive and analytical assessment of technology as a driver of defence reforms, with particular emphasis on India. It examines ongoing technological evolution, technology readiness level maturity timelines, institutional and policy frameworks, innovation, R&D and industry ecosystems, funding architecture, capability gaps and a long-term roadmap, while citing global comparisons. In essence, the analysis focuses on India’s defence technology ecosystem, reform trajectory and strategic imperatives.