India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) commemorated its 66th Foundation Day on January 1, 2024, marking a significant journey of innovation and self-reliance in the country’s defence sector. The day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and a renewed commitment to bolstering India’s defence capabilities.
Key Highlights of the Celebration
- Tributes to Visionaries: The celebrations commenced with paying floral tributes to former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the “Missile Man of India,” and Dr. VS Arunachalam, the former DRDO chief. Their contributions to India’s defence prowess were remembered and celebrated.
- Chairman’s Address: DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat addressed the DRDO fraternity, highlighting the organization’s achievements in 2023. He emphasized the successful delivery and induction of several critical systems, including missiles, radars, and communication equipment.
- Focus on Aatmanirbharta: Dr. Kamat stressed the importance of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence production. He highlighted the record-breaking Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) accorded in 2023 for DRDO-developed systems worth over Rs. 1.42 lakh crore. This marked a significant step towards reducing dependence on foreign imports and strengthening India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
- Launch of New Software: The Chairman also launched the Quantity-Distance Software developed by HEMRL Pune. This software automates the siting of explosives and related buildings, enhancing efficiency and safety in the armed forces.
DRDO’s Journey and Achievements
Over the past 66 years, DRDO has played a pivotal role in developing and deploying cutting-edge defence technologies. Some of its key achievements include:
- Missile Systems: Development and production of strategic missiles like Agni, Agni-II, Agni-III, Agni-IV, and Agni-V, along with tactical missiles like Prithvi, Trishul, and Akash.
- Radar Systems: Development of advanced radars like 3D AESA radars, Swordfish, and Rohini, providing enhanced air defence capabilities.
- Electronic Warfare Systems: Development of electronic warfare systems like EW suites for aircraft and ships, radars, and jammers, ensuring information superiority on the battlefield.
- Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas: Development and production of the indigenous LCA Tejas, a multirole fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force.
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Development and production of various UAVs for surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition.
DRDO Future Vision and Challenges
DRDO remains focused on developing future-ready technologies to address emerging threats. Some of its key focus areas include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Integration of AI in various defence systems for enhanced decision-making and automation.
- Hypersonic Technologies: Development of hypersonic missiles and vehicles for high-speed strike capabilities.
- Directed Energy Weapons: Research and development of directed energy weapons like lasers for precise and non-lethal targeting.
- Cybersecurity: Strengthening cybersecurity measures to protect critical defence infrastructure from cyberattacks.
DRDO’s 66th Foundation Day was a celebration of its remarkable achievements and a strong commitment to securing India’s future. The organization continues to strive for technological excellence, self-reliance, and a stronger India.
