DRDO Transfers Missile Technology to Indian Private Sector
#GS-3 #Science & Technology #Defence #Economy #Aatmanirbharta in Defence #National
Key takeaways
- The Defence Minister approved transferring DRDO missile tech to domestic firms to encourage local defense manufacturing.
- India achieved record defense production of ₹1.54 lakh crore and exports of ₹23,622 crore in 2024-25.
- The government targets reaching ₹1.75 lakh crore in defense production this fiscal year and ₹3 lakh crore by 2029.
- The decision helps private companies and MSMEs manufacture complex missile systems like Agni and BrahMos.
Why in News
- The Defence Minister approved the transfer of DRDO missile technologies to domestic companies for local production.
- This decision aims to strengthen Aatmanirbharta in defence and boost private manufacturing in India.
About the Technology Transfer
- Eligible Indian firms can now manufacture DRDO-developed conventional missile systems locally.
- Companies must clear mandatory technical tests, certifications, and regulatory standards to start production.
Greater Private Sector Participation
- This move opens direct supply chain opportunities for private defence firms, MSMEs, and technology partners.
- It encourages wider participation from private businesses across the national defence ecosystem.
Objectives
- The government wants to speed up the move from developing missiles to producing them on a factory scale.
- This step aims to grow domestic manufacturing, build a strong industrial base, and add more value within India.
India's Missile Capability
- India already maintains a wide range of missiles, such as the Agni ballistic missiles and BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
- These platforms highlight India's strong indigenous engineering capabilities in guided weapons.
Status of Defence Production
- India recorded its highest defence production worth ₹1.54 lakh crore in 2024-25.
- Defence exports reached an all-time high of ₹23,622 crore during the same year.
- The government targets defence production worth ₹1.75 lakh crore in 2025-26 and ₹3 lakh crore by 2029.
Significance
- Transferring missile tech strengthens local supply networks and makes manufacturing self-reliant.
- It reduces reliance on imported military hardware while creating skilled local manufacturing jobs.