Several DRDO systems in 'Final Stages' of User Evaluation or Development Trials: Defence Ministry

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced significant progress in its array of defence projects, with many systems nearing the final stages of user evaluation or development trials. During a ceremony at DRDO Bhawan, DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat highlighted the organization’s recent accomplishments and ongoing initiatives. The event also paid tribute to former President and "Missile Man of India," Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

Key Systems in Advanced Development

Among the high-profile systems approaching completion or under evaluation are:

1. Air Defence Tactical Control Radar (ADTCR):

   • A state-of-the-art radar system designed for battlefield surveillance and tactical air defence. It provides real-time situational awareness and threat assessment.

2. Air Defence Fire Control Radar (ADFCR):

   • Critical for guiding surface-to-air missiles and managing airspace in combat scenarios, ensuring precision and quick response.

3. Medium Range Anti-Ship Missile (MRAshM):

   • A versatile missile system capable of neutralizing maritime threats at medium range, enhancing the Indian Navy's offensive and defensive capabilities.

4. Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile System (LR-LACM):

   • Designed for precision strikes over extended ranges, suitable for deep-penetration missions against enemy assets.

5. 155mm Nubless Projectile (Bourrelet):

   • An innovative projectile design for artillery, improving range and accuracy.

6. Indigenous EW Suites for Su-30 MKI (Yodha and Anidra):

   • Advanced electronic warfare (EW) systems that enhance situational awareness, self-protection, and mission effectiveness for the Indian Air Force's Su-30 MKI fleet.

Other key systems include the Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (MMMA) for the Indian Coast Guard, Software Defined Radio (SDR-Tactical) for secure communication, and the CBRN Water Purification System Mk-II for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear contingencies.

Infrastructure Boost

Dr. Kamat outlined the strides made in enhancing DRDO’s infrastructure, such as:

• Missile Test Range at Nagayalanka, Andhra Pradesh: A new facility sanctioned by the Cabinet Committee on Security to test advanced missile systems.
• Land-Based Submarine Battery Test Facility: Located at NSTL, Visakhapatnam, this facility is critical for testing energy solutions for underwater platforms.
• Defence Technology & Test Centre (DTTC): Part of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UP DIC) in Lucknow, aimed at fostering collaboration between DRDO and allied industries.

Enabling Industry and Academia

The DRDO has actively engaged with private industries, MSMEs, and academic institutions to accelerate innovation. Highlights include:

• 1,950 Technology Transfers (ToT): These were handed over to Indian industries, with 256 Licensing Agreements signed in 2024 alone.
• 18,000 Tests for Private Industries: DRDO opened its test facilities, conducting over 5,000 tests in 2024 to support defence production.
• 80 Ongoing Projects: Nine were awarded to industries and start-ups under the 'Mission Mode' framework, with an additional 29 projects awaiting approval.

Recent Achievements

• Green Propulsion System: Successfully demonstrated in orbit through a payload launched by PSLV C-58, this eco-friendly technology highlights India’s focus on sustainable defence solutions.
• AI-Based Tool 'Divya Drishti': A breakthrough in integrating face recognition with physiological parameters like gait and skeleton, improving surveillance and security measures.
• Patents and Innovations: In 2024 alone, DRDO filed over 226 patents and was granted more than 201, showcasing its commitment to cutting-edge research.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Kamat expressed optimism about the Cabinet-approved Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project and other initiatives like the Nagayalanka test range. He reiterated DRDO's role in enabling Indian industries and academia to contribute meaningfully to national security.

With systems like the Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance Aircraft (MRMR) and Joint Venture Protective Carbine (JVPC) close to readiness, DRDO is set to further enhance India's defence arsenal. These developments not only bolster the country's strategic capabilities but also position DRDO as a global leader in indigenous defence innovation.