Goa, Oct 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the critical role of indigenous missile systems, including BrahMos and Akash, during 'Operation Sindoor', saying their performance had made many nervous.

Addressing Navy personnel on board the INS Vikrant on the occasion of Diwali, he said, "Our missiles like BrahMos and Akash have proved their capability in 'Operation Sindoor' also. The name BrahMos itself is so renowned that just hearing it makes many people anxious, wondering if BrahMos is coming."

The Prime Minister added that several countries are now keen to purchase these missiles. "Whenever I meet experts, they all express the same desire, that they, too, want access to them," he said.

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He further emphasised the country's growing Defence capabilities, stating, "India is building the capability to export equipment for all three services. We aspire to become a top Defence exporter in the world, which has increased 30 times in the last 11 years."

PM Modi also noted that, on average, a new indigenous warship or submarine is now being inducted into the Indian Navy every 40 days, reflecting the country's rapid progress in Defence manufacturing.

In a stirring display of India's burgeoning maritime dominance, the Prime Minister extolled the Navy's courage and the strategic might of INS Vikrant.

"This is not merely a warship; it is a testament to 21st-century India's ingenuity, resolve, and global influence," he declared.

He underscored the vessel's pivotal role in recent operations, noting, "INS Vikrant showcased the prowess of the Indian armed forces, compelling Pakistan to yield within days during Operation Sindoor."

The Prime Minister marked Diwali alongside the valiant personnel of the Indian Navy aboard the indigenously crafted aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, stationed off the coast of Goa.

This visit, steeped in tradition as PM Modi consistently spends the festival with India's armed forces, carried a potent message to Pakistan amidst simmering regional tensions. The Prime Minister's words resonated with the crew as he lauded their indomitable spirit.

(IANS)