DRDO to transfer conventional missile tech to Indian industry
Giving a major boost to self-reliance in defence manufacturing, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)-developed technologies of all conventional missile systems to the Indian defence industry for production within the country.
Announcing this significant decision on Tuesday, the defence ministry said this transfer of technology 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 the 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.
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.
The approval is part of a broader push to deepen private-sector participation in India’s defence ecosystem. India recorded its highest-ever defence production of Rs 1.54 lakh crore in 2024-25, while defence exports reached a record Rs 23,622 crore. The Government has set its sights on further increasing domestic defence production, with a target of Rs 1.75 lakh crore in the current fiscal year and Rs 3 lakh crore by 2029.
