DRDO's Strategic Tech Transfers Signal Shift Toward Indigenisation and Global Export Capability

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation has transferred nine advanced defence system technologies to ten industry partners.

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

This is a big step forward in consolidating the country's defence manufacturing capability.

The Vehicles Research & Development Establishment, one of DRDO's eight laboratories, formally handed over technologies in the presence of Chairman of DRDO Samir V. Kamat, who is also secretary of the department of Defence R&D on Saturday last week. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has procured various sophisticated defence platforms, among which are the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Recce Vehicle (Tracked) Mk-II and the Expandable Mobile Shelter.

BEL has also acquired the Mounted Gun System, whereas the same has been licensed to Bharat Forge Limited as well. Metaltech Motor Bodies has been awarded the technology for the Anti-Terrorist Vehicle (Tracked Version).

A major transfer is the 70-ton Arjun Mk-1A Tank Transporter Trailer that has been handed over to a consortium led by BEML Limited, Tata International Vehicle Applications, SDR Auto, and John Galt International.

The firm has been licensed for the manufacture of the Vajra Riot Control Vehicle. BEML also procured the Unit Maintenance and Repair Vehicles made especially for the Arjun MBT.