India approves transfer of DRDO missile technology to private firms
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India's Defence Ministry approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technology for all conventional missile systems to private Indian companies for domestic production. The move aims to accelerate missile production and strengthen the domestic defence industrial base. Private firms will compete for technology and production rights subject to technical qualifications and regulatory requirements.
Key Facts
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technology for all conventional missile systems to Indian industry for domestic production.
- The Ministry of Defence said the objective is to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, strengthen the defence industrial base, and create opportunities for MSMEs and other technology partners.
- The announcement covers surface-to-air missiles, air-to-air missiles, anti-radiation missiles, antitank systems, and land-attack cruise missiles, according to Aditya Ramanathan of the Takshashila Institution.
- Private companies will be able to compete for technology and production rights, subject to technical qualifications, certifications and other regulatory requirements.
Technology Transfer Approval
India's Ministry of Defence announced on Tuesday that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the transfer of DRDO-developed technology for all conventional missile systems to Indian industry for domestic production. The ministry said 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. Private companies will be able to compete for the technology and production rights, subject to technical qualifications, certifications and other regulatory requirements. The measure would enable the successful transition of missile system development to industrial production, the ministry added.
Scope and Industry Impact
Aditya Ramanathan, a research fellow with the Bengaluru-based Takshashila Institution, told Al Jazeera that the announcement spans a wide range of missiles, including surface-to-air, air-to-air, anti-radiation, antitank systems, and land-attack cruise missiles. The Narendra Modi-led government says the aim is to move missiles from development into mass production faster, increase domestic manufacturing and reduce India's dependence on imports. India has traditionally relied heavily on state-owned defence companies to turn weapons developed by DRDO into large-scale production. The move marks a significant shift for the sector dominated by government-run firms and research laboratories.
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India approves transfer of DRDO missile technology to private firms
