Defence Minister approves transfer of DRDO missile technologies to Indian industry

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of technology of all conventional missile systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to Indian defence companies for domestic production, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday.

The Transfer of Technology (ToT) will enable Indian companies to undertake production of the DRDO-developed missile systems in the country.

The ministry said the initiative would facilitate the transition of missile system development to industrial production and leverage the capabilities of Indian industry in manufacturing advanced defence systems.

"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 ministry said.

The initiative is also expected to strengthen India's defence industrial base and create greater opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other technology partners to participate in the missile systems' supply chains.

The move is part of the government's efforts to achieve self-reliance, enhance operational capabilities and reduce dependence on imports, while increasing domestic value addition in defence manufacturing.

DRDO will continue to work with Indian industry to facilitate the transfer and absorption of advanced defence technologies and strengthen indigenous defence capabilities, the ministry said.

The approval is expected to give further impetus to India's domestic missile manufacturing ecosystem and deepen industry participation in the development and production of advanced defence systems.