Bengaluru, Feb. 16 -- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday hailed the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) as one of the world's most prestigious institutions and urged scientists to compress decades of aero engine development into the next five years, asserting that India's strategic autonomy depends on mastering critical technologies at speed.

Speaking at the Gas Turbine Research Establishment in Bengaluru, Singh said the establishment, functioning under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has become "the foundation of India's strategic capability," crediting its scientists for consistently delivering successful tests and strengthening the country's defence preparedness.

"GTRE is not only one of India's ...