Objective of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) plays a critical role in bolstering India’s defence capabilities. Established in 1958, DRDO’s primary objective is to achieve self-reliance in defence systems and technologies. It focuses on the design and development of defence equipment, weapon systems, and technologies that meet the current and future needs of the Indian armed forces.

Key Objectives of DRDO:

1. Self-reliance in Defence Technology DRDO’s main aim is to develop indigenous technologies to reduce dependency on foreign imports. This aligns with the Government of India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative, emphasizing domestic manufacturing and R&D in defence. For instance, the development of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas is a key example of DRDO’s success in indigenization.
2. Enhancing National Security By developing advanced defence technologies, DRDO strengthens national security. Recent developments like the Agni-V Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), with a range exceeding 5,000 km, demonstrate India’s growing capability to deter external threats. This long-range missile enhances India’s strategic deterrence and self-defence capacity.
3. Development of Cutting-edge Technologies DRDO is responsible for developing advanced military technologies, including missiles, radars, aircraft, electronic warfare systems, and artificial intelligence in defence systems. A recent breakthrough in 2023 was the successful test of the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV), positioning India among the few nations capable of developing hypersonic weapons.
4. Support to Indian Armed Forces DRDO ensures that the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force are equipped with the latest technologies. One such recent example is the induction of Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a completely indigenous artillery system that enhances the firepower of the Indian Army.
5. Collaboration with Industries and Academia DRDO collaborates with public and private industries and academic institutions to foster research and innovation in defence. The 2023 Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC) is a significant initiative under which DRDO partnered with startups to develop innovative defence technologies.
6. International Collaborations DRDO is also engaged in international partnerships for co-development and technology transfer, further enhancing India’s global standing. One recent example is the joint development of the BrahMos missile with Russia, which has become a significant component of India’s defence exports.

Conclusion

DRDO’s objective is multifaceted: from achieving self-reliance in defence technology to ensuring national security and enhancing the operational capabilities of the armed forces. Through innovation, international collaboration, and partnerships with industry, DRDO continues to drive India’s defence ecosystem towards global recognition, as reflected in its recent technological successes like the INS Arihant (Nuclear Submarine) and Astra Missile systems.

These efforts align with India’s broader geopolitical ambitions and domestic policies like Aatmanirbhar Bharat.