Modernisation of defence equipment top priority: Jaitley

New Delhi: Modernisation of defence equipment is the top most priority for the government, Defence Minister Arun Jaitley said on Monday as he addressed the Army Commanders' Conference here.

The Defence Minister "complemented the senior military hierarchy" and said "whenever the challenges multiply or their nature changes, Indian Army has always outperformed itself", an official statement said.

The minister said modernisation of defence equipment is the topmost priority for the government, the statement added.

Army Chief, Gen Bipin Rawat, in his opening address emphasiaed that all "systems" were working well and complimented all those who are working on the ground.

He observed that Indian Army continues to hold a strong image and a professional reputation and asked all ranks to endeavour to further strengthen the same.

Top commanders of Indian Army are meeting in the national capital from April 17-22. The commanders will deliberate upon the prevailing security scenario, strategic and actionable issues to ensure an effective combat edge for the Indian Army.