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Defence body aims for 75 per cent self-reliance

Several countries have shown interest in R&C systems manufactured indigenously

Hyderabad: Canister-based tests for the Agni V missile have been successfully completed and the final launch will be carried out after the monsoon, Defence Research and Development Organisation director-general Dr Avinash Chander said on Saturday.

Dr Chander also said that several countries have shown interest in the radar and communication systems manufactured indigenously. Embraer aircraft with DRDO radar and communications systems are already being tested.

He added that the DRDO is trying to make several other missile systems while also increasing the range of surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles. He said the goal is 75 per cent self-reliance in the defence sector.

The DRDO director-general was speaking at the Aeronautical Society of India’s luminary meet here on Saturday. He said, “The perception that there is only 30 per cent self-reliance in the defence sector in terms of production of technology is not correct. Our analysis has shown that we are about 50 per cent self-reliant. Our ultimate goal is to reach 75 per cent.”

He explained that more than half of the defence projects the government approved in the last few years have been for indigenous companies. He also explained that a few key areas have been identified, one among is the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or drones.

“We are giving UAVs a push in a big way. That is one of the key areas along with Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, ammunition etc.,” he said.

He also said that India is now ready to compete with the best in the world in the areas of ammunition with tests scheduled next month for 155-mm ammunition.

“Then we also have the Missile Autonomy Mission targeted by 2025. We will not have to import any missiles from then,” Dr Chander said.

( Source : dc correspondent )
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