NEW DELHI, Sept. 2 -- Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday asked India's defence public sector undertakings to focus on timely delivery, cutting import dependency, transforming R&D into technology leadership, and boosting defence exports. "The progress of DPSUs is not merely an economic or industrial necessity; it is a national security imperative. Recent global conflicts have demonstrated how crucial assured supply chains, surge capacity, critical spares, rapid repair capabilities, and the ability to sustain production during prolonged conflicts are for any nation," he said during a performance review of 16 DPSUs. He also called upon the DPSUs to increase productivity with their capex expansion, support start-ups & MSMEs further and strive to achieve global standard quality. Singh was briefed by by secretary (defence production) Sanjeev Kumar and the heads of the DPSUs on their performance, key achievements, and future roadmap. The defence minister reviewed the progress made by the DPSUs in enhancing indigenous production and manufacturing capabilities, development of advanced defence technologies, increasing defence exports, strengthening supply chains and execution of major projects. Singh hailed the increased investment in R&D by DPSUs, adding that the success of R&D should be measured not just by the amount spent, but by the development of new technologies, intellectual property, prototypes, and operational products. "We must identify niche technology areas where India can become not just self-reliant, but a global leader. In pursuit of the 'Make in India, Make for the World' objective, we must resolve to transform all DPSUs into global giants." He commended the DPSUs for their steadfast contribution to strengthening India's defence manufacturing ecosystem and advancing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat while building a robust defence industrial ecosystem. He said that in 2025-26, India achieved defence production worth Rs.1.8 lakh crore with DPSUs contributing Rs.1.29 lakh crore. In August, a Parliamentary panel told the defence ministry that the robust order books of DPSUs must translate into timely project execution, adherence to delivery schedules, and sustained expansion of manufacturing capabilities....