The Proof and Experimental Establishment (PXE) of the DRDO at Chandipur observed its 128 Foundation Day on Monday.

Director DK Joshi said that the laboratory which has been carrying out proofing of arms and ammunitions round the year also has begun conducting tests for arms and ammunitions produced by the private players of India.

“Though we have been conducting tests for arms and arsenals required by the Ordnance factories and other defence units of India, over last 4-5 years we have also been proofing arms and ammunitions of private players who have evinced their interest in the sector to export their products to foreign countries,” Joshi said, dubbing it as a significant development.

“Until a few years, India was known as an importing country with respect to arms and ammunitions. Yet under the mission of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Swatantrata Bharat and Sasakat Bharat, India has taken initiatives to export their defence products,” said Joshi, adding, “Technologies are implemented at a faster pace these days to make the proofing and trails more cost and time effective.” He also lauded the efforts of all employees for their untiring spirits in completing the missions during the grim Covid period.

The PXE after modernisation of its equipment and enhancing its manpower efficiencies has been able to conduct tests of newly developed arms and charge systems, an advanced towed artillery gun system (ATAG) and  a Bio-Modular Charge System (BMCS).

The PXE during a month-long programme to commemorate its installation day has conducted several events including visiting orphanage and old age home, blood donation camp, cleaning under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
and Walkathon etc. Sports, games and cultural events were held with the participation of men and women employees and their families to mark the event. In recognition of their significant contributions to services, several employees were felicitated on the occasion.