DRDO Empowers Indian Industry with 9 Cutting-Edge Defence Techs
In a bold step toward self-reliance, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred nine advanced land systems to 10 Indian industries. The transfer took place on June 7, 2025, at the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra.
This move aligns with the Government’s ‘Make in India’ vision, encouraging private sector involvement in defence manufacturing. At the event, Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, handed over the Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (ToT) to key industry players.
Major Technologies Transferred
These high-performance systems have been entrusted to trusted Indian companies for manufacturing and integration:
| System | Industry Partner(s) |
|---|---|
| CBRN Recce Vehicle (Tracked) Mk-II | Bharat Electronics Ltd |
| Mounted Gun System | Bharat Forge Ltd |
| Anti-Terrorist Vehicle (Tracked) | Metaltech Motor Bodies Pvt Ltd |
| 70t Tank Transporter Trailer | BEML Ltd, Tata International Vehicle Applications, SDR Auto Pvt Ltd, John Galt International |
| Expandable Mobile Shelter | Bharat Electronics Ltd |
| Vajra Riot Control Vehicle | Tata Advanced Systems Ltd |
| Unit Maintenance Vehicle (MBT Arjun) | BEML Ltd |
| Unit Repair Vehicle (MBT Arjun) | BEML Ltd |
| Multi-Purpose Decontamination System | Dass Hitachi Ltd, Goma Engineering Pvt Ltd |
Each of these technologies is tailored for land systems operations, including riot control, nuclear decontamination, tank maintenance, and combat readiness.
Boosting Innovation Through Academic Partnerships
Along with the technology handovers, VRDE also signed an MoU with COEP Technological University, Pune. This collaboration aims to accelerate innovation in next-generation defence technologies, ensuring that research and real-world application evolve together.
Operation Sindoor: A Testament to Indigenous Strength
Dr. Kamat applauded the effective deployment of DRDO-developed systems during Operation Sindoor. He praised the performance of indigenous solutions in real-time scenarios and urged private companies to prepare for surge production to meet future operational demands swiftly.
Unified Vision from Leaders and Scientists
Several distinguished figures attended the event, emphasizing a shared commitment to innovation:
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Prof. (Dr) Prateek Kishore, Distinguished Scientist and DG (Armament and Combat Engineering), DRDO
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Shri G Ramamohana Rao, Director, VRDE
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Senior DRDO scientists and private sector representatives
Their collective presence underlined the importance of public-private partnerships in securing India’s defence future.
Pushing the Boundaries of Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
These advanced systems are not standalone products. They are integrated solutions, equipped with high-tech sensors, communication systems, and modular weapon platforms. With these transfers, DRDO empowers Indian firms to mass-produce, innovate, and even export top-tier defence technology.
This initiative not only strengthens India’s strategic autonomy but also creates new employment and R&D opportunities within the country.
