Every inch of Pakistan within BrahMos missile range: Rajnath Singh
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Lucknow: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday stated that “every inch of Pakistan is now within the range of the BrahMos missile,” while lauding the successful delivery of the first batch of BrahMos missiles produced at the Lucknow facility of BrahMos Aerospace.
Speaking at the flagging-off ceremony in Lucknow, attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Singh said India’s defence manufacturing capabilities have entered a new era, with Lucknow emerging as a major centre of the country’s security and self-reliance.
“Lucknow is no longer just a city of ‘tehzeeb’ (etiquette); it has become a city of technology and industries. Every step taken from here is a step towards India’s security and self-reliance,” he said.
Recalling that the facility was inaugurated in May 2025, Singh noted that within just five months, the first batch of missiles was ready for delivery, calling it a “record of credibility and capability.” He emphasised that BrahMos has become a “symbol of India’s growing indigenous capabilities,” praising its combination of speed, accuracy, and power.
“For us, it is a matter of pride that today BrahMos has become the backbone of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force,” Singh said.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, he described the military exercise as the “biggest proof” of India’s strength and noted that it demonstrated the nation’s growing deterrence. “What happened in Operation Sindoor was just a trailer, but that trailer alone made Pakistan realise that if India can create Pakistan, then when the time comes… You all are wise enough to understand,” he added. He said BrahMos’s successful performance in the operation has strengthened global confidence in India’s defence capabilities. “The practical demonstration of BrahMos has instilled confidence not only in our people but also across the world,” he said.
Singh said the Lucknow facility, spread over 200 acres and built at a cost of Rs 380 crore, will produce around 100 missile systems annually. The project is expected to provide employment to hundreds and act as “a new gateway for development.”
Highlighting the importance of self-reliance, the Defence Minister stressed the need to develop the entire defence supply chain within India. “We need to develop every kind of technology within India — from seekers to ramjet engines — so that our supply chain remains fully indigenous,” he said.
He also spoke on the role of Uttar Pradesh’s Defence Industrial Corridor, saying its success depends not only on large corporations but also on the growth of small and medium enterprises. “In the coming times, UP will become not only a manufacturing hub but also an epicentre of innovation and employment,” Singh said.
Emphasising the economic benefits of defence production, he added, “Every missile not only strengthens our security but also contributes to our economy. The taxes generated can build schools, hospitals, and welfare schemes for our citizens. BrahMos is not just a weapon — it’s a means of empowering our society.”
Concluding, Singh asserted that India is now seen globally as a credible partner in defence and technology. “Achievements like BrahMos show that ‘Made in India’ is not just a slogan — it has become a respected global brand. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India@2047, we are building a fully developed and self-reliant nation. The defence sector will play a decisive role in achieving that goal,” he said.
With IANS inputs