India’s military edge to grow: from fighter jets to nuclear submarine, major induction of ‘Make in India’ weapons ahead

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The coming year is being seen as crucial for strengthening India’s defence preparedness. In 2026, the Army, Air Force and Navy are expected to induct several advanced and lethal weapons and platforms, significantly enhancing the country’s military capabilities. The impact of the ‘Make in India’ initiative will be clearly visible across India’s defence forces.

According to reports, a large range of weapons and platforms from fighter jets to nuclear-powered submarines will be added to the Indian Armed Forces next year. This will further strengthen India’s strategic advantage. The Indian military has already demonstrated its capabilities in Operation Sindoor, but keeping in mind evolving regional challenges, preparations for future warfare are being accelerated.

As part of this push, the induction process is underway for fighter aircraft, warships, indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, domestically built transport aircraft and next-generation missile systems. These additions are aimed at boosting operational readiness and ensuring a strong response to any emerging threat.

Key defence platforms likely to be inducted in 2026

Experts suggest that the following major platforms could enter service next year:

Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A

Nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine Aridhaman

Project 17A stealth frigates

India-manufactured C-295 transport aircraft

Akash next-generation surface-to-air missile system

Advanced drones for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR)

With these systems becoming operational, the Indian Armed Forces’ strike capability, surveillance reach and rapid response strength are expected to increase significantly, further reinforcing national security.