Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is year 44 old now. The organisation which is relentlessly working towards making the Indian Armed Forces stronger and self-reliant, was formed in 1958 by amalgamating the Defence Science Organisation (DSO) and the Technical Development Establishment (TDE).

Corresponding to the government policy of enhancing interaction between DRDO and the private sector, eight DRDO laboratories were opened to the private sector last year. A very simple, cheap and easy-to-use method of assessment of contamination in drinking water based on the detection of hydrogen sulphide producing organisms, developed by DRDO laboratory, is under marketing by a private firm. In addition, several technologies have been transferred to private sector such as Scara robot used for assembly jobs and articulated robot used for material handling, welding and spray painting.

The DRDO scientists have successfully flight-tested the supersonic cruise missile Brahmos jointly developed by India and Russia. This missile with a 280 km range is the first of its kind in the world. It incorporates the most advanced technologies and is capable of being launched from a variety of platforms.

The Air Force version of Prithvi
(P-II) surface-to-surface missile, developed indigenously with 250 kms range, has already been successfully flight-tested. The flight was flawless and the missile impacted at the intended target point accurately.

DRDO saw some of the major landmarks in the history of defence technology covering the maiden flight of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). Lakshya (training targets) has been operationalised and inducted into the Air Force and Navy. In the combat engineering, technology transfer of main battle tank has been completed and wheel-based mechanically launched multi-span bridging system and containerised Operation Theatre went into limited series production. Electronic Warfare (EW) systems for three Services have been developed and avionic suites have been integrated with the state-of-the-art SU-30 aircraft. Supply of anthrax detection kits to central and state agencies and the World Health Organisation has been the key contribution of DRDO scientists towards the fight against bio-terrorism.

The DRDO now has acquired world standards in guided missiles, radars, electronic warfare systems, sonars, flight simulators, unmanned aircraft, small arms, ammunition high altitude protection clothing, parachutes and secrecy equipment. DRDO in partnership with the Department of Atomic Energy has successfully provided the technology capability for India to be a nuclear power.

Induction of new radars and upgradation of old radars has been planned in a big way to enhance the surveillance capabilities of the forces.

The Government has already approved direct acquisition of Air- borne Warning and Control System (AWACS). DRDO has designed and developed surveillance radar for use in Naval Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH). The first prototype of this radar is ready. DRDO has now reached a level of maturity in providing indigenous design and development in respect of a technologically complex radar system. Maximum association of Indian industries is also being ensured for group-based relocatable radars.

DRDO has proven competence in the areas of major radar system including multifunction phased array radars for ground based applications; surveillance radars for accurate, reliable air-picture generation with transportable radars, surveillance radars on helicopter platform for sea surface, ground surface and aerial targets, basis for state-of-the-art active array radar systems for long range radars and high power radar transmitters.

DRDO is now in the process of developing indigenous Battlefield Surveillance Radars (BFSR) for use by the Artillery. Two prototypes of indigenous BFSR are likely to be ready for trials this year. The first prototype of Maritime Patrol Radar for Naval Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) is also ready. In view of complex technology for the radar system, there has to be a judicious mix of indigenous and imported technology. The private sector will also be gradually associated when it is ready to enter this field with its technological and investment participation.

DRDO scientists have created an infrastructure and management structure to develop, manage and integrate high-cost and high-technology programmes by pooling national resources and expertise. This has enabled the country to minimise the effect of sanctions and technology denials