View source for Defence Research and Development Organisation

{{Short description|Government agency in India}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2022}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2020}}
{{Infobox government agency
| name            = Defence Research and Development Organisation
| native_name     = रक्षा अनुसंधान एवं विकास संगठन<br />''Raksha Anusandhaan Evan Vikaas Sangathan''
| logo            = Defence Research and Development Organisation.svg
| logo_size       = 200px
| logo_caption    = Logo of DRDO
| formed          = {{start date and age|1958}}
| headquarters    = DRDO Bhawan, [[New Delhi]], [[India]]
| motto           = "Strength's Origin is in Science"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gistconvention.org/pdf/drdo.doc |title=About DRDO |publisher=gistconvention.org |access-date=2 July 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304031928/http://www.gistconvention.org/pdf/drdo.doc |archive-date= 4 March 2016 }}</ref> <br> Sanskrit: बलस्य मूलं विज्ञानम्
| employees       = 30,000 (5,000 scientists)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/index.jsp?pg=genesis.jsp |title=DRDO |access-date=2017-05-15 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806181721/https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/index.jsp?pg=genesis.jsp |archive-date=6 August 2017}}</ref>
| budget          = {{profit}} {{INRConvert|26816|c|1}}<small>(2025–26)</small><ref>{{cite web | url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1895472 | title=Defence gets Rs 5.94 lakh crore in Budget 2023-24, a jump of 13% over previous year | access-date=14 February 2023 | archive-date=14 February 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230214001853/https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1895472 | url-status=live }}</ref>
| minister1_name  = [[Rajnath Singh]]
| minister1_pfo   = [[Minister of Defence (India)|Minister of Defence]]
| chief1_name     =  Samir V. Kamat 
| chief1_position = Chairman, DRDO<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/g-satheesh-reddy-is-now-secretary-drdo/article24781379.ece |title=Main focus to work towards fulfilling the mission mandated for DRDO: G. Satheesh Reddy |date=25 August 2018 |access-date=8 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190529073607/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/g-satheesh-reddy-is-now-secretary-drdo/article24781379.ece |archive-date=29 May 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| parent_agency   = [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]]
| website         = {{URL|https://drdo.gov.in}}
}}

The '''Defence Research and Development Organisation''' ('''DRDO''') ([[International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration|IAST]]: ''Raksā Anūsandhān Evam Vikās Sangaṭhan'') is an [[government agency|agency]] under the Department of Defence Research and Development in the [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] of the [[Government of India]], charged with the [[Indian Armed Forces|military]]'s [[research and development]], headquartered in Delhi, India. It was formed in 1958 by the merger of the Technical Development Establishment and the Directorate of Technical Development and Production of the [[Indian Ordnance Factories]] with the Defence Science Organisation under the administration of [[Jawaharlal Nehru]]. Subsequently, [[Defence Research & Development Service]] (DRDS) was constituted in 1979 as a service of Group 'A' Officers / Scientists directly under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence.

With a network of 52 laboratories that are engaged in developing defence technologies covering various fields like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, land combat engineering, life sciences, materials, missiles, and naval systems, DRDO is India's largest and most diverse research organisation. The organisation includes around 5,000 scientists belonging to the DRDS and about 25,000 other subordinate scientific, technical, and supporting personnel.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/index.jsp?pg=genesis.jsp|title=DRDO|website=www.drdo.gov.in|language=en|access-date=2017-05-15|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806181721/https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/index.jsp?pg=genesis.jsp|archive-date=6 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/index.jsp?pg=job_sc.jsp|title=DRDO Scientist Job – DRDO Scientist B recruitment- Scientist recruitment DRDO|access-date=2 July 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150810162300/http://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/English/index.jsp?pg=job_sc.jsp|archive-date=10 August 2015}}</ref>

==History==

The DRDO was established in 1958 by combining the Defence Science Organisation and some of the technical development establishments. A separate Department of Defence Research and Development was formed in 1980, which later administered DRDO and its almost 30 laboratories and establishments (there were almost 52 labs before merging). Most of the time, the Defence Research and Development Organisation was treated as if it were a vendor and the Army Headquarters or the Air Force Headquarters were the customers. Because the Army and the [[Indian Air Force|Air Force]] themselves did not have any design or construction responsibility, they tended to treat the designer or Indian industry at par with their corresponding designer in the world market. If they could get a [[MiG-21]] from the world market, they wanted a MiG-21 from DRDO.{{cn|date=September 2023}}

Beginning in the 1970s, the Indian Air Force launched a covert effort to develop and indigenise ground-based radar systems to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Working alongside DRDO labs like LRDE, the IAF helped shape indigenous radar programs such as the Indra and Rohini series. This quiet but determined initiative laid the groundwork for India’s broader air defence modernisation.<ref>{{cite web |last=Gupta |first=Anchit |title=The Audacious Secret Story of Indian Air Force’s Radar Indigenisation Program |url=https://iafhistory.in/2024/11/12/the-audacious-secret-story-of-indian-air-forces-radar-indigenisation-program/ |website=IAFHistory |date=12 November 2024 |access-date=5 May 2025}}</ref>

DRDO started its first major project in [[surface-to-air missile]]s (SAM) known as [[Project Indigo]] in the 1960s. Indigo was discontinued in later years without achieving full success. Project Indigo led [[Project Devil]], along with Project Valiant, to develop short-range SAM and [[ICBM]] in the 1970s. Project Devil itself led to the later development of the [[Prithvi (missile)|Prithvi]] missile under the [[Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme]] (IGMDP) in the 1980s. IGMDP was an Indian [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] programme between the early 1980s and 2007 for the development of a comprehensive range of missiles, including the [[Agni missile]], Prithvi ballistic missile, [[Akash missile]], [[Trishul missile]] and [[Nag Missile]]. In 2010, the defence minister [[A. K. Antony]] ordered the restructuring of the DRDO to give a major boost to defence research in the country and to ensure effective participation of the private sector in defence technology. The key measures to make DRDO effective in its functioning include the establishment of a Defence Technology Commission with the defence minister as its chairman.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defencetalk.com/mod-announces-major-drdo-restructuring-plan-26384/ |title=MoD Announces Major DRDO Restructuring Plan &#124; Defence & Security News at DefenceTalk |publisher=Defencetalk.com |date=17 May 2010 |access-date=31 August 2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101129020637/http://www.defencetalk.com/mod-announces-major-drdo-restructuring-plan-26384/ |archive-date=29 November 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defpro.com/news/details/15208/ |title=defence.professionals |publisher=defpro.com |access-date=31 August 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110515212759/http://www.defpro.com/news/details/15208/ |archive-date=15 May 2011}}</ref> The programmes which were largely managed by DRDO have seen considerable success with many of the systems seeing rapid deployment as well as yielding significant technological benefits. Since its establishment, DRDO has created other major systems and critical technologies such as aircraft avionics, [[UAV]]s, small arms, artillery systems, EW Systems, tanks and armoured vehicles, sonar systems, command and control systems and missile systems.

In 2024, DRDO tested India's first long-range [[Hypersonic weapon|hypersonic missile]], that is able to carry conventional and [[Nuclear weapon|nuclear]] warheads to a distance exceeding 1,500 km at a 3 km per second speed.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rout |first=Hemant Kumar |date=2024-12-01 |title=India first to develop long-range hypersonic missile: Defence experts |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2024/Dec/01/india-first-to-develop-long-range-hypersonic-missile-defence-experts |access-date=2024-12-04 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>

=== Plans for reforms ===
The [[Government of India]] has plans to overhaul and reform DRDO, and a committee was formed in 2023<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/panel-formed-for-restructuring-and-redefining-role-of-drdo/article67227736.ece | title=Panel formed for 'restructuring and redefining' role of DRDO | date=23 August 2023 }}</ref> to suggest reforms and overhauls.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Sagar |first=Pradip R. |date=2024-10-03 |title=DRDO rejig hits internal huddle: What's delaying this key Modi govt reform |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/drdo-rejig-hits-internal-huddle-whats-delaying-this-key-narendra-modi-govt-reform-2610664-2024-10-03 |access-date=2024-10-23 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Press Trust of India |date=6 August 2024 |title='Committee has suggested certain reforms to overhaul functioning of DRDO' |url=https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/committee-has-suggested-certain-reforms-to-overhaul-functioning-of-drdo-124080501488_1.html |access-date=23 October 2024 |website=Business Standard}}</ref> The 9-member committee, which was under the [[Prime Minister's Office (India)|Prime Minister’s Office]] (PMO), was led by former [[Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India]], [[K. Vijayraghavan]]. The committee submitted its report on the reforms for DRDO in July 2024.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Pandit |first=Rajat |date=2024-07-30 |title=DRDO overhaul on course, government to also take final call on 'contentious' reforms |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/drdo-overhaul-on-course-government-to-also-take-final-call-on-contentious-reforms/articleshow/112118013.cms |access-date=2024-10-27 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> Reportedly, the recommendations from the committee have been described as contentious and it was also reported that the DRDO has agreed to implement approximately 60% of the major reforms.<ref name=":2" /> As of October 2024, the implementation of structural reforms has been delayed due to opposition from senior DRDO officials.<ref name=":1" />

== Organisation ==

=== Cluster Laboratories/Establishments ===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+Source<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=(Release%20ID%20:160059)|title=Press Information Bureau|access-date=2017-03-29|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170329140705/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=%28Release%20ID%20%3A160059%29|archive-date=29 March 2017}}</ref>
!Laboratory Name
!Location
!Area of Research
|-
|[[Advanced Numerical Research and Analysis Group|Advanced Numerical Research & Analysis Group (ANuRAG)]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Hyderabad]], [[Telangana]]
|Computational System
|-
|[[Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL)]]
|Missiles & Strategic Systems
|-
|[[Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment|Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment (ADRDE)]]
|[[Agra]], [[Uttar Pradesh]]
|Parachutes & Aerial Systems
|-
|[[Aeronautical Development Establishment|Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE)]]
|[[Bangalore|Bengaluru]], [[Karnataka]]
|Aeronautics
|-
|[[Chitradurga Aeronautical Test Range|Aeronautical Test Range (ATR)]]
|[[Chitradurga]], Karnataka
|Unmanned & Manned Aircraft
|-
|[[Armament Research and Development Establishment|Armaments Research & Development Establishment (ARDE)]]
|[[Pune]], [[Maharashtra]]
|Armaments
|-
|[[Centre for Airborne Systems|Centre for Airborne Systems (CAbS)]]
| rowspan="2" | [[Bangalore|Bengaluru]], [[Karnataka]]
|Air-Borne Systems
|-
|[[Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics|Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR)]]
|Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
|-
|[[Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety|Centre for Fire, Explosives & Environment Safety (CFEES)]]
|[[Delhi]], [[Delhi|National Capital Territory of Delhi]]
|Explosives
|-
|[[Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS)]]
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|High Energy Weapons
|-
|[[Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment|Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE)]]
|[[Chennai]], [[Tamil Nadu]]
|Combat Vehicles
|-
|[[Combat Aircraft Systems Development & Integration Centre]]
| rowspan="2" | [[Bangalore|Bengaluru]], [[Karnataka]]
|Avionics
|-
|[[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory|Defence Bio-engineering & Electro-medical Laboratory (DeBEL)]]
|Bio-engineering
|-
|[[Defence Electronics Application Laboratory|Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL)]]
|[[Dehradun]], [[Uttarakhand]]
|Electronics & Communication Systems
|-
|[[Defence Food Research Laboratory|Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL)]]
|[[Mysuru]], Karnataka
|Food Research
|-
|[[Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Research (DIBER)]]
|[[Haldwani]], Uttarakhand
|Bio-Energy
|-
|[[Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR)]]
|[[Leh]], [[Ladakh]]
|High Altitude Agro-animal Research
|-
|[[Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences|Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS)]]
| rowspan="2" |Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Physiological and Biomedical Research 
|-
|[[Defence Institute of Psychological Research|Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR)]]
|Psychological Research
|-
|[[Defence Laboratory|Defence Laboratory (DL)]]
|[[Jodhpur]], [[Rajasthan]]
|Camouflaging and Isotopes
|-
|[[Defence Electronics Research Laboratory|Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL)]]
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Electronic Warfare
|-
|[[Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment|Defence Materials & Stores Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE)]]
|[[Kanpur]], Uttar Pradesh
|Textiles, Polymers & Composites
|-
|[[Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory|Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL)]]
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Metallurgy
|-
|[[Defence Research and Development Establishment|Defence Research & Development Establishment (DRDE)]]
|[[Gwalior]], [[Madhya Pradesh]]
|Chemical & Biological Warfare
|-
|[[Defence Research and Development Laboratory|Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL)]]
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Missile & Strategic Systems
|-
|[[Defence Research Laboratory (DRL)]]
|[[Tezpur]], [[Assam]]
|Health & Hygiene
|-
|[[Defence Terrain Research Laboratory|Defence Terrain Research Laboratory (DTRL)]]
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Terrain Research
|-
|[[Gas Turbine Research Establishment|Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE)]]
|Bengaluru, Karnataka
|Gas Turbine
|-
|[[High Energy Materials Research Laboratory|High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL)]]
|Pune, Maharashtra
|High Energy Materials, Explosive
|-
|[[Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences|Institute of Nuclear Medicines & Allied Sciences (INMAS)]]
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Nuclear Medicine
|-
|[[Instruments Research and Development Establishment|Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE)]]
|Dehradun, Uttarakhand
|Electronics & Optical Systems
|-
|[[Integrated Test Range (ITR)]]
|[[Balasore]], [[Odisha]]
|Missile & Strategic Systems
|-
|[[Joint Cipher Bureau|Joint Cipher Bureau (JCB)]]
| rowspan="2" |Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Signals Intelligence and Cryptanalysis
|-
|[[Laser Science and Technology Centre|Laser Science & Technology Centre (LaSTeC)]]
|Laser Technology
|-
|[[Electronics and Radar Development Establishment|Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE)]]
| rowspan="2" |Bengaluru, Karnataka
|Radars
|-
|[[Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification|Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CeMilAC)]]
|Air-worthiness and Certification
|-
|[[Naval Materials Research Laboratory|Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL)]]
|[[Ambarnath]], Maharashtra
|Naval Materials
|-
|[[Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory|Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL)]]
|[[Kochi]], [[Kerala]]
|Sonar Systems
|-
|[[Naval Science and Technological Laboratory|Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL)]]
|[[Visakhapatnam]], [[Andhra Pradesh]]
|Underwater Weapons
|-
|Programme Air Defence (PGAD)
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Missiles & Strategic Systems
|-
|[[Proof and Experimental Establishment|Proof and Experimental Establishment (PXE)]]
|Balasore, Odisha
|Armament Testing
|-
|[[Research Centre Imarat|Research Centre Imarat (RCI)]]
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Missile & Strategic Systems
|-
|[[Research & Development Establishment (Engineers)|Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) (R&DE(E))]]
|Pune, Maharashtra
|Engineering Systems & Weapon Platforms
|-
|[[Scientific Analysis Group|Scientific Analysis Group (SAG)]]
|Delhi
|Communications Security
|-
|[[Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment|Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE)]]
|[[Chandigarh]], [[Union Territory of Chandigarh]]
|Snow and Avalanche
|-
|[[Solid State Physics Laboratory|Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL)]]
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Solid State Materials, Devices and Sub-systems
|-
|Society for Integrated Circuit Technology and Applied Research (SITAR)
|Bengaluru, Karnataka & Hyderabad, Telangana
|Semiconductor, Microelectromechanical Systems 
|-
|[[Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory|Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL)]]
|Chandigarh, Union Territory of Chandigarh
|Ballistics
|-
|[[Vehicle Research and Development Establishment|Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE)]]
|[[Ahmednagar]], Maharashtra
|Wheeled Vehicles
|}
As part of the rationalization plan, the Defence Terrain Research Laboratory (DTRL) was merged with the Snow and Avalanche Studies Establishment (SASE) which was renamed into the Defence Geological Research Establishment (DGRE). As of 2020, the Advanced Numerical Research and Analysis Group (ANURAG) and Laser Science and Technology Center (LASTEC) are no longer functional as independent entities. The staff are relocated to various DRDO labs in Hyderabad.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mohan|first=Vijay|date=30 November 2020|title=DRDO shuts down 3 labs, sends staff to other centres|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/drdo-shuts-down-three-labs-sends-staff-to-other-centres-177986|access-date=2021-04-03|website=Tribuneindia News Service|language=en|archive-date=9 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221109121110/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/drdo-shuts-down-three-labs-sends-staff-to-other-centres-177986|url-status=live}}</ref> DRDO is planning to build a new research lab in Lucknow.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Srivastava|first=Pranchal|date=3 April 2021|title=DRDO research centre to come up in Lucknow, says Rajnath Singh|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/drdo-research-centre-to-come-up-in-lucknow-says-rajnath-singh/articleshow/81880857.cms|access-date=2021-04-05|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=9 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221109121108/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/drdo-research-centre-to-come-up-in-lucknow-says-rajnath-singh/articleshow/81880857.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> 
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+Source<ref>{{cite news |title=PM dedicates 5 DRDO Young Scientists Laboratories to the Nation |url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=197246 |access-date=18 March 2021 |agency=PTI |publisher=Press Trust of India |date=2 January 2020 |archive-date=9 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221109121108/https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=197246 |url-status=live }}</ref>
!Laboratory Name
!Location
!Area of Research
|-
| rowspan="5" |[[DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories]]
|Bengaluru, Karnataka
|Artificial Intelligence
|-
| Kolkata, West Bengal
|Asymmetric Technologies
|-
|Chennai, Tamil Nadu
|Cognitive Technologies
|-
|Mumbai, Maharashtra
|Quantum Technology
|-
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Smart Materials
|}

=== HR Institutions ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+Source<ref name=":0" />
!Institution Name
!Location
!Area
|-
|Centre for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM)
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Talent Management
|-
|Institute of Technology Management (ITM)
|[[Mussoorie]], Uttarakhand
|Technology Management
|-
|Recruitment and Assessment Centre (RAC)
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Human Resource
|}

=== Other Institutions ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+Source<ref name=":0" />
!Institution Name
!Location
!Area of Research
|-
|Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials (ACEM)
|[[Nashik]], Maharashtra
|High Energy Materials
|-
|Centre for Advanced Systems (CAS)
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Advanced Systems
|-
|-
|[[Defence Scientific Information and Documentation Centre|Defence Scientific Information & Documentation Centre]] (DeSIDoC)
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Information System and Documentation
|-
|DRDO Integration Centre (DIC)
|[[Panagarh]], West Bengal
|Systems Integration 
|-
|Institute for Systems Studies & Analyses (ISSA)
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Systems Analysis
|-
|Mobile Systems Complex (MSC)
|Pune, Maharashtra
|Missile Systems
|-
|SF Complex (SFC)
|[[Jagdalpur]], [[Chhattisgarh]]
|Propellant
|}

=== Centres of Excellence ===
{| class="wikitable"
|+Source<ref name=":0" />
!Center Name
!Location
!Area of Research
|-
|DRDO [[Bharathiar University]] (DRDO-BU), Centre of Excellence
|[[Coimbatore]], Tamil Nadu
|Applied Psychology, Toxicology, Biological Sensors, Fuel Cell
|-
|Advanced Centre for Research in High Energy Materials (ACRHEM)
|Hyderabad, Telangana
|Photonics, Material Science, High Energy Materials 
|-
|Centre of Excellence in Cryptology
|Kolkata, West Bengal
|Cryptology
|-
|Centre of Millimeter Wave Semiconductor Devices and Systems
|Kolkata, West Bengal
|Millimeter Wave and Semiconductor
|-
|Advanced Centre for Excellence on Composite Materials (ACECM)
|Bengaluru, Karnataka
|Composite Materials
|-
|Research and Innovation Centre (RIC)
|Chennai, Tamil Nadu
|Sensors and Microelectromechanical Systems
|-
|Centre of Propulsion Technology (CoPT)
|Mumbai, Maharashtra
|Propulsion Technology
|-
|Jagdish Chandra Bose Centre for Advanced Technology (JCBCAT)
|Kolkata, West Bengal
|Directed Energy Technologies, Robotics, Cognitive Technologies
|-
|DRDO-Industry-Academia Center of Excellence (DIA-CoE), [[IIT Delhi]] (previously Joint Advanced Technology Centre)<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=25 September 2024 |title=DRDO, IIT-Delhi develop lightweight bulletproof jackets with 360-degree protection |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/drdo-iit-delhi-develop-lightweight-bulletproof-jackets-with-360-degree-protection-3206363 |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref>
|Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi
|Advanced Ballistics and Protection, Advanced Electromagnetic Devices and Terahertz technologies, Brain Computer Interface and Brain Machine Intelligence, Photonic Technologies, Plasmonics, Laser and Quantum Photonics, and Smart & Intelligent Textile Technologies.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Shukla |first=Ajai |date=27 September 2024 |title=DRDO-IIT Delhi partnership develops lightweight bullet-proof jackets |url=https://www.business-standard.com/external-affairs-defence-security/news/drdo-iit-delhi-partnership-develops-light-wieght-bullet-proof-jackets-124092601039_1.html |access-date=5 October 2024 |work=Business Standard}}</ref>
|-
|Centre of Excellence in Systems Design and Engineering
|Mumbai, Maharashtra
|Systems Design
|-
|North East Science and Technology Centre (NESTC)
|[[Aizawl]], [[Mizoram]]
|Microelectromechanical Systems, Sensors, Degenerative Disease, Toxicology
|-
|Kalam Centre for Science and Technology (KCST)
|[[Jammu]], [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]
|Computational System Security, Sensors
|-
|DRDO-Industry-Academia Center of Excellence (DIA-CoE), [[IIT Jodhpur]]
|[[Jodhpur]], [[Rajasthan]]
|Desert Warfare Technologies, Futuristic Omni Mobile System, Artificial Intelligence in Information and War gaming<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mathew |first=Joe |date=2024-04-11 |title=IIT Jodhpur-DRDO set up centre for defence tech R&D |url=https://www.fortuneindia.com/enterprise/iit-jodhpur-drdo-set-up-centre-for-defence-tech-rd/116509 |access-date=2024-04-22 |website=Fortune India |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|DRDO-Industry-Academia Center of Excellence (DIA-CoE), [[IIT Kanpur]]
|[[Kanpur]], [[Uttar Pradesh]]
|Advanced [[Nanomaterials]], Accelerated Material Design and Development, High Energy Materials, [[Biological engineering]]<ref>{{Cite news |date=30 May 2024 |title=IIT Kanpur, DRDO join forces to establish DIA Centre of Excellence, to foster research in next-gen defence technology |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/news/iit-kanpur-drdo-join-forces-to-establish-dia-centre-of-excellence-to-foster-research-in-next-gen-defence-technology-101717077996883.html |access-date=2 June 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>  
|}

== Projects ==
{{See also|Projects of DRDO}}

== Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme ==
On 11 December 2024, under TDF, the iBooster Green Propulsion System was handed over to the DRDO by Manastu Space Technologies, based at [[IIT Bombay]]. For crucial satellite functions including [[orbit raising]], [[orbital station-keeping]], and [[Deorbit|deorbiting]], the iBooster system—which is intended for spacecraft weighing between 100 and 500 kg—will be employed. Unlike [[hydrazine]], it uses a patented [[hydrogen peroxide]]-based fuel that is safer, more affordable, and less harmful to the environment. The high-temperature catalyst in iBooster ensures smooth ignition, and the thruster design has been tuned for increased efficiency.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tripathi |first=Sibu Kumar |date=2024-12-12 |title=Manastu Space delivers green propulsion system for satellites to DRDO |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/science/story/manastu-space-delivers-green-propulsion-system-for-satellites-to-drdo-2648236-2024-12-12 |access-date=2025-01-06 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Huma |date=2024-12-11 |title=Manastu Space Delivers Groundbreaking Green Propulsion System to DRDO, Empowered by TDF Support |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-manastu-space-delivers-groundbreaking-green-propulsion-system-to-drdo-empowered-by-tdf-support-3689559/ |access-date=2025-01-06 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref>

== Industry linkages, technology transfer and indigenisation ==
{{see also| Defence industry of India | Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry | Make in India | Startup India | Indigenous Defence Equipment Exporters Association }}

India domestically produces only 45% to 50% of defence products it uses, and the rest are imported.<ref name=mind1/> To become technology research and production leader, reduce reliance on the imports and increase self-reliance, DRDO Chief called for more collaboration with the industry, private sector, research and education institutes including [[Indian Institutes of Technology|IIT]]s and [[National Institutes of Technology|NITs]].<ref name="mind1">[https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/drdo-chief-urges-for-indigenous-defence-production/articleshow/71350864.cms DRDO chief urges for indigenous defence production] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190928202908/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/drdo-chief-urges-for-indigenous-defence-production/articleshow/71350864.cms |date=28 September 2019 }}, The Economic Times, 28 September 2019.</ref> India's [[military–industrial complex]] has had little success and only recently private sector was allowed to enter the defence production.<ref name="mind3">[https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/view-why-unlocking-defence-land-bank-to-meet-militarys-needs-is-a-good-idea/articleshow/71911296.cms Why unlocking defence land bank to meet military's needs isn't a bad idea] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191120152338/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/view-why-unlocking-defence-land-bank-to-meet-militarys-needs-is-a-good-idea/articleshow/71911296.cms |date=20 November 2019 }}, The Economic Times, 4 November 2019.</ref> To expedite the development cycle of new technologies and to better fit the end user requirements, army has asked DRDO to take more army staff on deputation to be part of DRDO technology development project teams.<ref name="mind9">[https://newsarks.blogspot.com/2023/04/army-wants-drdo-to-take-in-more-of-its.html NEWS Army wants DRDO to take in more of its personnel on deputation, give them more access] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191105095117/https://liistudio.com/army-wants-drdo-to-take-in-more-of-its-personnel-on-deputation-give-them-more-access/16025/ |date=5 November 2019 }}, liistudio.com, 18 October 2019.</ref>

Indian forces are using numerous indigenous technologies produced by the DRDO, including Varunastra, Maareech, Ushus, and TAL by the navy; Electronic Warfare Technologies, radars, composite materials for LCA, AEW&C, Astra, and LCA Tejas by airforce; and ASAT, BrahMos, ASTRA, Nag missile, SAAW, Arjun MBT Mk 1A, 46-metre Modular Bridge, MPR, LLTR Ashwin by the army.<ref name="mind7">[https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/union-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-pushes-for-indigenisation-of-defence-equipment-2117431 Rajnath Singh Pushes For Indigenisation Of Defence Equipment] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104195409/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/union-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-pushes-for-indigenisation-of-defence-equipment-2117431 |date=4 November 2019 }}, NDTV, 16 September.</ref> In September 2019, DRDO formulated the ''"DRDO Policy and Procedures for Transfer of Technology"'' and released information on ''"DRDO-Industry Partnership: Synergy and Growth and DRDO Products with Potential for Export"''.<ref name=mind7/>

During the Vibrant Goa Global Expo and Summit 2019 in October, DRDO signed [[technology transfer]] contracts with [[Make in India|16 Indian companies]], including 3 startups, to produce products for the use by [[Indian Armed Forces]].<ref name=mind2/> This included [[Shelf life|high shelf life]], high nutrition, [[Meal, Ready-to-Eat|ready-to-eat]] on-the-go food products to be consumed in the difficult terrain and bad weather.<ref name=mind2>[https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/drdo-signs-pacts-on-transfer-of-technology-with-16-companies/articleshow/71652198.cms DRDO signs pacts on Transfer of Technology with 16 companies] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200318211136/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/drdo-signs-pacts-on-transfer-of-technology-with-16-companies/articleshow/71652198.cms |date=18 March 2020 }}, The Economic Times, 18 October 2019.</ref> DRDO and [[ISRO]] have agreed to collaborate in India's crewed orbital spacecraft project called [[Gaganyaan]] during which DRDOs various laboratories will tailor their defence capabilities to suit the needs of ISRO's human space mission with critical human-centric systems and technologies like space grade food, crew healthcare, radiation measurement and protection, parachutes for the safe recovery of the crew module and fire suppression system etc.<ref name=mind6>[https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/isro-drdo-sign-mous-for-gaganyaan-mission/articleshow/71171232.cms ISRO, DRDO sign MoUs for Gaganyaan mission] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200218134346/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/science/isro-drdo-sign-mous-for-gaganyaan-mission/articleshow/71171232.cms |date=18 February 2020 }}, The Economic Times, 17 September.</ref> [[Kalyani Group]] is developing the [[Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System]].<ref name=mind6/>

DRDO with [[Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry]] (FICCI) under Advance Assessment Technology and Commercialisation Programme is helping Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LAWDA) to keep [[Dal Lake]] clean by providing low cost Biodigesters for the treatment of [[Human waste|human excreta]], [[Manure|animal waste]] disposal, [[Greywater|grey water]] and [[Food waste|kitchen waste]] release that works fine in ambient as well as [[Temperature|sub zero temperature]] which are also supplied to [[Indian Railways]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/trials-by-drdo-successful-lake-authority-to-finalise-tendersbiodigesters-to-help-treat-sewage-from-houseboats-49454|title=Biodigesters to help treat sewage from houseboats|last=Service|first=Tribune News|website=Tribuneindia News Service|language=en|access-date=2020-03-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://drdoficciatac.com/Biodigester/aboutus.asp|title=Bio-Digester|website=drdoficciatac.com|access-date=2020-03-06|archive-date=19 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200219002743/http://drdoficciatac.com/biodigester/aboutus.asp|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Defence Research and Development Establishment]] (DRDE) which works in the field of [[chemical weapon]], [[biological agent]] detection and research is helping [[Indian Council of Medical Research]] (ICMR) in augmenting diagnostic capability for [[Coronavirus disease 2019|COVID-19]] outbreak. It has created special hand sanitiser formulation and diagnostic kits following WHO standards and guidelines that are supplied in large numbers to [[civilian]] and defence officials.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/health/coronavirus-drdo-to-help-in-covid-19-detection-and-diagnosis/1887525/|title=Coronavirus: DRDO to help in COVID-19 detection and diagnosis|date=2020-03-03|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-03-06|archive-date=4 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200304164823/https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/health/coronavirus-drdo-to-help-in-covid-19-detection-and-diagnosis/1887525/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/drdo-joins-fight-against-coronavirus-to-make-hand-sanitizer-for-citizens/1906320/|title=DRDO joins fight against Coronavirus: To make hand sanitizer for citizens|date=2020-03-23|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-03-29|archive-date=29 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329153417/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/drdo-joins-fight-against-coronavirus-to-make-hand-sanitizer-for-citizens/1906320/|url-status=live}}</ref> Medical staff all over India dealing with [[Coronavirus]] contamination are using protective waterproof clothing with special sealant used in submarine applications developed by [[Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences|Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences]] (INMAS) for [[CBRN defence]] that is made up of high strength [[polyester]] coated with breathable polymer.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/drdo-develops-bio-suits-based-on-sealants-used-in-submarine-applications/article31246509.ece|title=DRDO develops bio-suits based on sealants used in submarine applications|last=Sheth|first=Hemani|website=@businessline|date=3 April 2020|language=en|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412102013/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/drdo-develops-bio-suits-based-on-sealants-used-in-submarine-applications/article31246509.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> The clothing underwent successful trials at the [[The South India Textile Research Association|South India Textile Research Association]] and exceeds the criteria of currently available suits in the market.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bgr.in/news/drdo-to-mass-produce-bio-suits-for-medical-professionals-fighting-coronavirus-884420/|title=DRDO to make bio suits for healthcare staff to fight COVID-19|last=Staff|date=2020-04-06|website=BGR India|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412102014/https://www.bgr.in/news/drdo-to-mass-produce-bio-suits-for-medical-professionals-fighting-coronavirus-884420/|url-status=live}}</ref> The suit is washable, passed all critical CBRN and [[ASTM Standards|ASTM standards]] and is now manufactured by two private players, Venus Industries from [[Mumbai]] and IMTEC from [[Kolkata]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/drdo-suit-ideal-for-covid-19-warriors-too/article31195033.ece|title=DRDO suit ideal for COVID-19 warriors too|date=2020-03-28|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-03-29|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=29 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329153415/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/drdo-suit-ideal-for-covid-19-warriors-too/article31195033.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory]] (DEBEL) developed causality evacuation bag for [[COVID-19]] infected patients that can withstand Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) environments and is protected against blood and viral penetration. The bag is made up of durable water-repellent [[nonwoven fabric]]. It is rigid and cylindrical with air and waterproof zippers and ventilators. Already ordered 500 in numbers, DRDO will now transfer the technology to the private sector for manufacturing.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/drdo-develops-casualty-evacuation-bags-orders-500-pieces-62789|title=DRDO develops casualty evacuation bags, orders 500 pieces|last=Service|first=Tribune News|website=Tribuneindia News Service|language=en|access-date=2020-03-29|archive-date=29 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329153418/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/drdo-develops-casualty-evacuation-bags-orders-500-pieces-62789|url-status=live}}</ref>

Under the Society for Biomedical Technology (SBMT) programme, DEBEL has developed five-layer [[nanomesh]] based N99 masks and is collaborating with Mysore-based [[Larsen & Toubro#Divestments|Skanray Technologies]] for the production of ventilators using currently available technologies with Indian made parts due to unavailability of imports. It is also working on a new multiplexed [[ventilator]] technology that will be able to support several infected individuals on a single ventilator. The prototype development stage is complete and the initial model is now undergoing various improvements suggested by a team of medical researchers and doctors.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2020/special/drdo-developing-ventilator-prototype.html|title=DRDO developing ventilator prototype|last=Pioneer|first=The|website=The Pioneer|language=en|access-date=2020-03-31|archive-date=29 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729070847/https://www.dailypioneer.com/2020/special/drdo-developing-ventilator-prototype.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The technology will finally be transferred to [[Tata Motors]], [[Mahindra & Mahindra|Mahindra and Mahindra]], [[Hyundai Motor India Limited|Hyundai Motor India]], [[Honda Cars India]] and [[Maruti Suzuki]] for immediate mass production.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businesstoday.in/current/corporate/drdo-innovating-multi-patient-ventilators-to-meet-emergency/story/399488.html|title=Coronavirus crisis: DRDO working with Tata, Mahindra on 'multi-patient ventilators'|website=www.businesstoday.in|date=28 March 2020|access-date=2020-03-29|archive-date=29 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329153419/https://www.businesstoday.in/current/corporate/drdo-innovating-multi-patient-ventilators-to-meet-emergency/story/399488.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/mar/28/n-99-masks-bodysuit-drdos-plan-to-combat-coronavirus-in-india-2122611.html|title=N-99 masks, bodysuit: DRDO's plan to combat coronavirus in India|website=The New Indian Express|date=28 March 2020 |access-date=2020-03-29|archive-date=29 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329153417/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/mar/28/n-99-masks-bodysuit-drdos-plan-to-combat-coronavirus-in-india-2122611.html|url-status=live}}</ref> DRDO signed agreement with [[Indian Telephone Industries Limited]] for tech transfer on low cost multiplexed ventilator technology with 80% to 90% of components are now [[make in India]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Work of DRDO |url=https://globalwebtrend.com/trending/drdo-full-information-in-hindi/ |access-date= |website=Globalwebtrend |archive-date=20 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230920175618/https://globalwebtrend.com/trending/drdo-full-information-in-hindi/ |url-status=usurped }}</ref>

DRDO as of 11 April 2020 transferred technologies to 30 major companies to manufacture various non-medicine products against the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] which includes ventilators, sanitiser, [[personal protective equipment]], [[face shield]] and isolation shelters. The technology for the newly developed multiplexed [[ventilator]] came from the onboard oxygen generation system (OBOGS) developed for [[HAL Tejas]]. Private sector players like Raksha Polycoats and Accurate Savan Defence are now producing protective clothing, isolation shelters based on DRDO tech developed for [[High-altitude pulmonary oedema |high altitude pulmonary oedema]] (HAPE) bags, submarine escape the suit and satellite recovery systems. Hyderabad-based [[3D printing|3D]] printing startup [https://www.imake.in/ iMake] with Modern Manufacturers and Kirat Mechanical Engineering from [[Chandigarh]], Wipro 3D from [[Bangalore|Bengaluru]] and Global Healthcare from [[Delhi]] are [[3D printing]] visor-based face shields which is an offshoot of the tech developed for [[high-altitude military parachuting]]. Setco from [[Mumbai]] is producing sealants developed for submarines of [[Indian Navy]] at DRDO labs for personal protection equipment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/30-companies-to-manufacture-counter-covid-19-products-with-drdo-technology/article31315458.ece|title=30 companies to manufacture 'counter Covid-19 products' with DRDO technology|last=Ramesh|first=M.|website=@businessline|date=11 April 2020|language=en|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=11 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411063044/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/30-companies-to-manufacture-counter-covid-19-products-with-drdo-technology/article31315458.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Research Centre Imarat]] (RCI) and [[Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory]] (TBRL) developed a product called Aerosol Containment Box for enclosure of [[intubation]] procedure made with [[Poly(methyl methacrylate)]]. It is cubical designed for both adults and minors and covers the COVID-19-infected patients during medical examination and treatment from head to chest to stop the transmission of droplets containing the virus to others. [[Employees State Insurance Corporation|Employees' State Insurance Corporation]] Medical College, Hyderabad helped RCI in prototype development while [[Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research]] helped in testing, validation and acceptance of products for medical use. The technology is now transferred to private industries located in [[Chandigarh]] and [[Hyderabad]] for mass manufacturing.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/drdo-does-it-again-develops-aerosol-barrier-for-safety-of-medical-professionals/1924554/|title=DRDO does it again! Develops Aerosol Barrier for Safety of Medical Professionals|date=2020-04-10|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412081411/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/drdo-does-it-again-develops-aerosol-barrier-for-safety-of-medical-professionals/1924554/|url-status=live}}</ref> RCI at DRDO Missile Complex, Hyderabad is now supplying technology of brushless DC motors (BLDC) used for missile actuators and high response [[solenoid valve]]s used in missile control for ventilator pumps that validated the prototype testing stages.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/04/04/drdo-missile-scientists-products-covid19-coronavirus.html|title=DRDO's missile scientists churn out products to fight COVID-19|website=OnManorama|language=en|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412102011/https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/04/04/drdo-missile-scientists-products-covid19-coronavirus.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety]] (CFEES) developed two sanitising equipment of 50 litres tank capacity consisting of a portable backpack type that covers an area of 300 metres while another trolley mounted for large area sanitisation of up to 3000 metres by spraying 1% [[hypochlorite]] solution.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/coronavirus-drdo-comes-up-with-more-products-to-tackle-covid-19/article31261371.ece|title=COVID-19 {{!}} DRDO comes up with more products to tackle coronavirus|date=2020-04-05|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-12|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=9 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409091134/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/coronavirus-drdo-comes-up-with-more-products-to-tackle-covid-19/article31261371.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Vehicle Research and Development Establishment]] (VRDE) developed a portable disinfection chamber and special face protection mask for [[health professional]] combating the COVID-19 outbreak in India. The personnel decontamination system is equipped with sanitiser and soap dispenser. The full-body decontamination starts using for pedal with an electrically operated pump creating a disinfectant mist of 700-litre of hypo sodium chloride. The system takes 25 seconds for full decontamination with an automatic shut-off procedure and can decontaminate 650 personnel until the next refill. The face mask developed for COVID-19 patients uses the A4 size Over-Head Projection (OHP) film for protection and lightweight materials for long duration comfortable use.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/coronavirus-pandemic-drdo-designs-disinfection-chamber-special-face-mask-5109171.html|title=Coronavirus pandemic {{!}} DRDO designs disinfection chamber, special face mask|website=Moneycontrol|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412102012/https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/coronavirus-pandemic-drdo-designs-disinfection-chamber-special-face-mask-5109171.html|url-status=live}}</ref> VRDE developed full-body decontamination chamber was designed and validated within 4 days with [[All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi]] became the first premier institution to use it. The mass manufacturing of the portable decontamination chamber is now done by Dass Hitachi Limited.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/health/coronavirus-pandemic-drdos-disinfection-chamber-deployed-at-aiims-check-features/1922256/|title=Coronavirus Pandemic: DRDO's disinfection chamber deployed at AIIMS; check features|date=2020-04-08|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412102012/https://www.financialexpress.com/lifestyle/health/coronavirus-pandemic-drdos-disinfection-chamber-deployed-at-aiims-check-features/1922256/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Development cum Production Partner programme ===
As part of [[Make in India|Make In India]] and [[Atmanirbhar Bharat]] initiative, DRDO under the Development cum Production Partner programme (DcPP) allowed handholding of domestic private sector industries to improve their development and production cycle of complex defence systems.

[[VL-SRSAM]] (Vertical Launch - Short Range Surface to Air Missile) and [[Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System]] (ATAGS) became some of the successful projects of this programme.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=6 April 2021|title=DRDO opens up missile production partnership for Indian private sector|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/drdo-opens-up-missile-production-partnership-for-indian-private-sector/articleshow/81928553.cms|access-date=2021-04-06|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=6 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210406075147/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/drdo-opens-up-missile-production-partnership-for-indian-private-sector/articleshow/81928553.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]] on 17 December 2021, secured an order for manufacturing, assembly, integration, testing and supply of [[DRDO Abhyas]] from [[Aeronautical Development Establishment]]. The order will be completed under Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) with a private sector industry.<ref>{{cite news |title=HAL bags ADE-DRDO supply order for 'ABHYAS' target platform |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/business/companies/171221/hal-bags-ade-drdo-supply-order-for-abhyas-target-platform.html |access-date=17 December 2021 |agency=PTI |publisher=Deccan Chronicle |date=17 December 2021 |archive-date=17 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211217082720/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/business/companies/171221/hal-bags-ade-drdo-supply-order-for-abhyas-target-platform.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 16 December 2021, [[Ashok Leyland]] signed partnership agreement with [[Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment]] (CVRDE) to develop 600&nbsp; hp engine for Future Combat Vehicle Programme.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=16 December 2021|title=Ashok Leyland in pact with DRDO arm to develop combat vehicle engines|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/ashok-leyland-in-pact-with-drdo-arm-to-develop-combat-vehicle-engines/article37963448.ece|url-status=live|access-date=2021-12-23|website=Business Line|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211215165544/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/ashok-leyland-in-pact-with-drdo-arm-to-develop-combat-vehicle-engines/article37963448.ece |archive-date=15 December 2021 }}</ref> [[Instruments Research and Development Establishment]] (IRDE) on 27 December 2021 transferred technologies for developing border surveillance system to Indian private sector company Paras Defence and Space. The system consists of radar, and electro-optical sensors mounted on a pan tilt platform.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|date=2021-12-27|title=Paras Defence bags DRDO contract for border surveillance tech|url=https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/paras-defence-bags-drdo-contract-for-border-surveillance-tech-11640599368047.html|url-status=live|access-date=2021-12-28|website=Mint|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227102622/https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/paras-defence-bags-drdo-contract-for-border-surveillance-tech-11640599368047.html |archive-date=27 December 2021 }}</ref> On 28 December 2021, [[Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences]] (DIPAS) transferred technology to manufacture extreme cold weather clothing system to RHD Business Services, SBNX Innovation, Shiva Texyarn Limited, Kusumgar Corporates and Ginni Filaments Limited.<ref name=":3">{{cite news|last=Dutta|first=Amrita Nayak|date=31 December 2021|title=DRDO Giving Extreme Cold Clothing Technology to 5 Indian Firms Latest in 1,400 Such Tech-transfer Pacts|publisher=News18|agency=PTI|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/drdo-giving-extreme-cold-clothing-technology-to-5-indian-firms-latest-in-1400-such-tech-transfer-pacts-4609679.html|access-date=29 December 2021|archive-date=31 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211231025118/https://www.news18.com/news/india/drdo-giving-extreme-cold-clothing-technology-to-5-indian-firms-latest-in-1400-such-tech-transfer-pacts-4609679.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

DRDO on 8 January 2024 launched Ugram, an assault rifle chambered in [[7.62×51mm NATO|7.62x51mm NATO]], which has been designed, developed and manufactured in collaboration with Dvipa Armour India Private Limited under DcPP.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kulkarni |first=Sushant |date=2024-01-09 |title=DRDO launches 'Ugram', Indigenous assault rifle for armed forces |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/drdo-launches-indigenous-assault-rifle-for-armed-forces-9100894/ |access-date=2024-01-10 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> It's scheduled to be tested by the Indian Army.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kajal |first=Kapil |date=10 January 2024 |title=DRDO develops new assault rifle |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/drdo-develops-new-assault-rifle |access-date=2024-01-11 |website=Janes.com |language=en|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111132954/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/drdo-develops-new-assault-rifle|archivedate=2024-01-11}}</ref> [[NASM-SR]] is manufactured by [[Adani Enterprises#Adani Defence & Aerospace|Adani Defence & Aerospace]] under DcPP.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Missiles {{!}} Adani Defence & Aerospace |url=https://www.adanidefence.com/en/missiles |access-date=2024-08-11 |website=www.adanidefence.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Kadidal |first1=Akhil |last2=Tripathi |first2=Bharat |last3=Udoshi |first3=Rahul |date=28 February 2025 |title=India tests anti-ship missile's features, datalink |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/india-tests-anti-ship-missiles-features-datalink |access-date=2 March 2025 |publisher=janes.com |agency=Janes Information Services}}</ref> [[Larsen & Toubro]] is producing the [[Zorawar (tank)|Zorawar]] [[light tank]] under the DRDO's DcPP.<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 January 2024 |title=Indian light tank Zorawar begins trials, expected to be ready for user tests by April |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indian-light-tank-zorawar-begins-trials-expected-to-be-ready-for-user-tests-by-april/articleshow/106780188.cms?from=mdr |access-date=31 March 2025 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> L&T is manufacturing integrated life-support system-onboard oxygen generation system (ILSS-OBOGS) for aircraft such as [[HAL Tejas]], [[HAL Tejas Mk2]] from [[Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory]] under DcPP.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2025-03-05 |title=DRDO conducts high-altitude trial of integrated life support system for Tejas aircraft |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/drdo-conducts-high-altitude-trial-of-integrated-life-support-system-for-tejas-aircraft/article69294459.ece |access-date=2025-03-05 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

== Heads of DRDO ==
List of Director Generals (1948–2015) and Chairpersons (since 2015) of DRDO.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/our-luminaries|title=Our Luminaries|website=DRDO|access-date=27 August 2023|archive-date=26 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230826215911/https://www.drdo.gov.in/our-luminaries|url-status=live}}</ref>
#[[Daulat Singh Kothari]] (1948–1961)
#[[Suri Bhagavantam]] (1961–1969)
#[[Basanti Dulal Nagchaudhuri|B. D. 
 Nag Chaudhuri]] (1970–1974)
#[[M. G. K. Menon]] (1974–1978)
#[[Raja Ramanna]] (1978–1982)
#[[V. S. R. Arunachalam]] (1982–1992)
#[[A. P. J. Abdul Kalam]] (1992–1999)
#[[V. K. Aatre]] (1999–2004)
#[[List of Indian scientists|M. Natarajan]] (2004–2009)
#[[V. K. Saraswat]] (2009–2013)
#[[Avinash Chander (DRDO)|Avinash Chander]] (2013–2015)
#[[S. Christopher]] (2015–2018)
# [[G. Satheesh Reddy|G.Satheesh Reddy]] (2018-2022)
#Samir V. Kamat (2022–present)<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-08-25 |title=Samir V Kamat Appointed New DRDO Chief; G Satheesh Reddy Named Scientific Adviser To Defence Minister |url=https://english.jagran.com/india/samir-v-kamat-appointed-new-drdo-chief-g-satheesh-reddy-named-scientific-adviser-to-defence-minister-10048081 |access-date=2023-10-02 |website=English Jagran |language=en |archive-date=5 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231005070257/https://english.jagran.com/india/samir-v-kamat-appointed-new-drdo-chief-g-satheesh-reddy-named-scientific-adviser-to-defence-minister-10048081 |url-status=live }}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Aeronautical Development Agency]]
* [[Agency for Defense Development]] - South Korea
* [[Bharat Electronics]]
* [[Bharat Dynamics]]
* [[:Category:Corruption in defence procurement in India|Corruption in defence procurement in India]]
* [[Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency]] - United States
* [[Defence Industry Agency]] - Turkey
* [[Defence Institute of Advanced Technology]]
* [[Defence Science and Technology Group]] - Australia
* [[Defence Technology Institute]] - Thailand
* [[Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]]
* [[Military Institute of Armament Technology]] - Poland
* [[National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology]] - Taiwan
* [[Rafael Advanced Defense Systems]] - Israel 
* [[Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet]]
* [[Swedish Defence Research Agency]] - Sweden

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
*[https://drdo.gov.in The official website of DRDO]
*[https://rac.gov.in/ DRDO Recruitment: Scientist]
*[https://drdo.gov.in/ceptm-advertisement/500 DRDO Recruitment: Technical, Admin & Allied Cadre]
{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}
{{DRDO Laboratories}}
{{Military of India}}

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[[Category:1958 establishments in Delhi]]
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[[Category:Government agencies of India]]