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Defence Research and Development Organisation

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Defence Research and Development Organisation
NameDefence Research and Development Organisation
Formed1958
HeadquartersDRDO Bhavan, New Delhi
Chief1 nameDr. Samir V. Kamat
Chief1 positionSecretary, Department of Defence Research and Development
Chief2 nameDr. Samir V. Kamat
Chief2 positionChairman
Parent agencyMinistry of Defence (India)
Websitehttps://www.drdo.gov.in/

Defence Research and Development Organisation is the premier agency under the Ministry of Defence (India) responsible for the military's research and development. Established in 1958 from the amalgamation of the Technical Development Establishment and the Directorate of Technical Development and Production, it aims to empower India with indigenous defence technologies. The organisation operates a network of laboratories and facilities across the country, working on diverse domains from aerospace engineering to naval systems. Its work is pivotal to the strategic objectives of the Indian Armed Forces.

History

The origins trace back to the early post-independence era, with key institutions like the Defence Science Organisation laying the groundwork. The formal creation was significantly influenced by the vision of then-defence minister V. K. Krishna Menon and scientist D. S. Kothari. Early projects focused on propellants and explosives, with the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory playing a crucial role. A major turning point was the leadership of Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, who spearheaded the integrated Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme in the 1980s, leading to systems like the Prithvi and Agni missiles. The organisation's mandate expanded following the Pokhran-II nuclear tests and the Kargil War, which underscored the need for self-reliance.

Organisation and structure

The agency is headed by a Secretary who also serves as the Chairman, currently Dr. Samir V. Kamat. It is structured into several technology clusters, each overseeing a group of laboratories dedicated to specific domains, such as the Aeronautical Development Agency and the Armament Research and Development Establishment. These clusters report to the Department of Defence Research and Development within the Ministry of Defence (India). The Defence Research and Development Service is a dedicated cadre of scientists and engineers. Key decision-making bodies include the Defence Acquisition Council and the Scientific Advisory Committee to the Cabinet.

Major projects and achievements

Notable successes include the Agni series of ballistic missiles, the Prithvi tactical surface-to-surface missile, and the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile developed jointly with NPO Mashinostroyeniya of Russia. In aeronautics, the Tejas light combat aircraft, developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency, and the Rustom UAV are significant. Armament projects encompass the Arjun main battle tank and the INSAS rifle. Recent milestones include the anti-satellite test Mission Shakti, the Ballistic Missile Defence Programme, and the development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft prototype.

Facilities and laboratories

The organisation operates over 50 laboratories and establishments across India. Major facilities include the Defence Research and Development Laboratory in Hyderabad, the Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bangalore, and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory in Visakhapatnam. Testing is conducted at ranges like the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur and the Pokhran Test Range. Specialized centres include the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in Bangalore and the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences in Delhi.

Collaborations and partnerships

International cooperation is a key facet, with longstanding partnerships with entities like NPO Mashinostroyeniya for BrahMos and collaborations with Dassault Aviation, Safran, and Israel Aerospace Industries. It works closely with domestic public sector units such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, and Ordnance Factories Board. Academic ties exist with the Indian Institutes of Technology, the Indian Institute of Science, and the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology. The organisation also engages with private industry through the Technology Development Fund and the Dare to Dream innovation contest.

Leadership and personnel

The Chairman, who is also the Secretary for the Department of Defence Research and Development, provides strategic direction. Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam remains the most iconic former leader. The scientific workforce is primarily composed of members of the Defence Research and Development Service. The organisation has been led by distinguished scientists like Dr. V. S. R. Arunachalam and Dr. V. K. Saraswat. It confers awards like the DRDO Scientist of the Year and the DRDO Award for Performance Excellence to recognize merit.

Category:Defence Research and Development Organisation Category:Government agencies established in 1958 Category:Science and technology in India