Missiles From Hyderabad’s DRDO Complex Proved Decisive In Operation Sindoor, Say Scientists

Hyderabad: Weapon systems developed at Hyderabad’s missile complex played a pivotal role in Operation Sindoor, India’s response to the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. Officials who developed several of these systems, and those who had worked on them, described India’s success as a “validation” of India’s missile development capabilities and indigenisation efforts.

At a workshop held on Saturday at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), scientists, defence veterans, and officials discussed the operational impact of indigenous systems like the medium-range surface to air missile (MRSAM) Akash, the supersonic cruise missile Brahmos, and UAV-launched precision guided missile that were deployed during the conflict.

A one-day workshop titled ‘Sindoor Saugandh’ featured an exhibition of subsystems and a series of talks on performance, innovation, and future upgrades.

DRDL director Dr G.A. Srinivasa Murthy said the workshop aimed to look beyond deployment and assess how to make these systems even more effective and versatile. Lt Gen. Dr V.J. Sundaram, former DRDL director, called for 100 per cent indigenisation and urged scientists to pursue advanced frontiers like cyborg technology.

Dr A. Sivathanu Pillai, founder-CEO of BrahMos Aerospace, in a message, credited the joint efforts of DRDO, the armed forces, and industries. Former Akash project head Dr Prahlada spoke of the journey from the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme days under Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who was later elected President, and said the collaborative spirit at DRDL remained its greatest strength.

Patrick D’Silva, associated with the MRSAM project, shared insights into the missile’s journey. U. Raja Babu, DG (Missiles & Strategic Systems), said the Hyderabad missile complex now spanned underwater to outer space platforms and added: “We can handle any challenge entrusted to us.”

Dr Samir V. Kamat, DRDO Chairman, stressed the urgency of speeding up trials and induction of systems under development, including hypersonic missiles, stealthier platforms, and more agile deterrents.

Dr G Satheesh Reddy, former DRDO chairman, urged scientists to design future systems with elements of strategic surprise and cutting-edge tech. Veterans who contributed to the development of these systems were felicitated during the workshop. Dr G. Raja Singh Thangadurai chaired the organising committee.