DRDO Defence Systems: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has given production rights of nine different defence systems and vehicles to various public and private companies. This move is a big step toward growing India’s defence industry and making the country more self-reliant in military technology. The technology transfer was done by one of DRDO’s major labs, the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE), which is based near Ahmednagar in Maharashtra. The agreements were handed over to companies on Saturday.
During the ceremony, DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat praised the strong performance of India’s home-made defence systems like the Akash air defence missile system, especially during Operation Sindoor. He said the defence industry must be ready to increase production quickly during emergency times. He also said VRDE has played an imp role in developing land-based defence vehicles and technology for the military, reported TOI.
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Indigenous Systems and Industry Partnerships
CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicle: VRDE transferred the rights to produce the CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicle (Tracked) Mark-II to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). This vehicle is made to safely scout areas where there may be dangerous chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear materials. The Mounted Gun System, which is a mobile artillery system designed for fast battlefield use, went to Bharat Forge, a private company.
Anti-terrorist vehicles: Metaltech Motor Bodies Pvt Ltd got the technology to build tracked anti-terrorist vehicles, which are meant for use in tough terrains and in fighting terrorism. Tata Advanced Systems Ltd received the Vajra Riot Control Vehicle, which is used to manage riots and large crowds, especially in tense areas.
Expandable Mobile Shelter technology: For mobile operations and emergency setups, the Expandable Mobile Shelter technology was given to BEL. These shelters can be used for command centers or field hospitals during operations.
Logistic technology: DRDO also passed on important logistic technology. The Full Trailer for carrying the 70-ton Arjun Mk-1A tanks was given to four companies: BEML, Tata International Vehicle Applications, SDR Auto Pvt Ltd, and John Galt International. These trailers are needed to move heavy tanks from one place to another quickly.
BEML also received rights to build two more important vehicles the Unit Maintenance Vehicle and the Unit Repair Vehicle. These two are used to fix and maintain the Arjun tanks while in the field, so the army doesn’t lose time during combat.
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Multi-Purpose Decontamination System: To deal with contaminated areas and equipment, VRDE handed over the Multi-Purpose Decontamination System to Dass Hitachi Ltd and Goma Engineering Pvt Ltd. This system can clean harmful chemicals and biological materials from people, equipment, and the environment.
Quantum Research
DRDO also opened a special center focused on quantum technology last month. This new Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) is located at Metcalfe House in Delhi. Dr Kamat was there to open the center. This facility is expected to help develop futuristic tech in quantum science, which could be used in defence and communication.
The lab will work on several advanced technologies. It is already ready to test things like lasers, single-photon sources, and devices used for secure communication. A special DRDO group called the Scientific Analysis Group (SAG) is leading the work on quantum key distribution, which is a method to protect information from hacking or spying.
