Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
New Delhi: In a major strategic move to build up domestic missile production capabilities, defence minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of Defence Research and Development Organisation's (DRDO) conventional missile technology to the domestic private players for production within the country as part of a larger goal to enhance domestic defence manufacturing. Under the initiative, the DRDO will transfer missile technologies to eligible defence firms.

The move comes at a time when India is reportedly looking to build a new “Rocket Force” with long-range tactical and non-nuclear vectors, which, among others, is also likely to include the Pralay missile, an indigenously developed missile with range of up to 200 km.

The transfer of technology decision is unlikely to involve the Agni series of five missiles — with ranges from 700 km for Agni 1 to 5,000 km for Agni V and the BrahMoS supersonic cruise missile which has Russia as a joint partner.
The state-owned Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has been traditionally the manufacturing base for guided missile systems and allied equipment for the Indian armed forces. BDL may now have to compete with the private players to get orders for missile production.
“In a significant step towards achieving the vision of 'aatmanirbharta' in defence, Mr Singh has approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technologies of all conventional missile systems to the Indian defence industry for production within the country,” said the defence ministry in a statement.

The defence ministry statement added that the transfer of technology (TOT) marks an important milestone in promoting greater participation of the domestic industries in the defence ecosystem by enabling them to undertake indigenous production, as per applicable qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements.
“The provision will enable successful transition of missile system development to industrial production, reflecting the continued efforts of the DRDO to leverage the capabilities of the Indian industry for the development and manufacture of advanced defence systems,” said the defence ministry, adding that the objective is to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, strengthen the defence industrial base and create opportunities for the participation of Indian MSMEs and other technology partners in the supply chain.
The initiative aims to enhance operational capability, reduce import dependence and increase domestic value addition, while supporting the growth of India's defence manufacturing sector. “The DRDO remains committed to working closely with Indian industry to facilitate the transfer and absorption of advanced defence technologies and to further strengthen the country's indigenous defence capabilities,” said the defence ministry.


Tags: