India’s Quiet Maintenance Revolution: The Importance of Sustainment
India is increasing focus to building sustainment capability. Recent initiatives involving MiG-29UPG upgrades, predictive maintenance for Su-30MKI fighters, private-sector participation in Prachand helicopter production, and expanded Vande Bharat train maintenance facilities reflect a growing emphasis on self-reliance, lifecycle management, and operational readiness. These efforts highlight four key trends: indigenous maintenance capability, predictive maintenance technologies, stronger private-sector involvement, and long-term sustainment planning. If successfully executed, this maintenance-centered approach could become a cornerstone of India's future industrial and strategic strength.