Summary
DRDO’s Groundbreaking Move: Advanced Materials Technologies Transferred to Industry for Defence & Naval Power – India’s premier defence research agency, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), has taken a significant leap in strengthening self-reliance and innovation in defence technology. By transferring three advanced materials technologies to leading industry partners, DRDO has paved the way for revolutionary progress in missile systems, naval vessel construction, and other critical defence applications. This strategic collaboration promises faster scalability, enhanced commercial use, and a robust push toward Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
DRDO Hands Over Cutting-Edge Technologies to Industry Leaders
At a recent event held in Hyderabad on August 30, DRDO’s Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) formally handed over Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) to three major industry partners. The ceremony was graced by Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, who praised the researchers for their relentless innovation and successful technology transfers.
This initiative not only strengthens India’s indigenous defence ecosystem but also showcases DRDO’s commitment to collaborative growth with industry leaders.
The Three Advanced Materials Technologies Transferred
The transferred technologies span across high-demand strategic applications:
- High-Strength Radomes to BHEL, Jagdishpur
Radomes are protective covers that shield crucial missile sensors from harsh environments. DRDO has transferred the manufacturing technology of high-strength radomes to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). This move ensures the domestic production of superior-quality radomes, boosting India’s missile systems and reducing dependency on foreign technology. - DMR-1700 Steel Sheets and Plates to JSPL, Angul
DRDO’s second technology transfer involves the production of DMR-1700 steel sheets and plates, licensed to Jindal Steel & Power Limited (JSPL). This material delivers an excellent balance of ultra-high strength and fracture toughness at room temperature, making it vital for demanding defence applications. Its industrial scaling will directly contribute to stronger and more reliable military hardware. - DMR 249A HSLA Steel Plates to SAIL-BSP, Bhilai
The third transfer went to Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP), involving DMR 249A High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) steel plates. These plates meet stringent metallurgical standards and are crucial for the construction of naval vessels, ensuring durability, resilience, and long-term performance in maritime operations.
Strengthening Defence, Naval Power, and Industry Collaboration
The transfer of these advanced materials will have far-reaching impacts on India’s defence and naval capabilities. By empowering trusted industry leaders with these innovations, DRDO ensures that:
- Indigenous manufacturing is accelerated.
- Defence supply chains become more self-reliant.
- Strategic assets such as missiles and naval vessels gain enhanced performance and reliability.
Additionally, an MoU was signed between DMRL and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. This partnership will utilize DMRL’s expertise, facilities, and metallurgical knowledge to support civil aviation safety, marking another example of cross-sector collaboration.
A Vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence Manufacturing
In his address, DRDO Chairman Dr. Kamat applauded the scientific community and industry stakeholders for working together to achieve this milestone. He highlighted how DMRL’s multidisciplinary expertise continues to push the boundaries of innovation, ensuring India is well-prepared to meet present and future defence challenges.
This landmark transfer of technology is more than a research achievement—it is a powerful step toward Atmanirbhar Bharat, reinforcing India’s long-term vision of self-reliance in defence technology. By enabling large-scale commercial deployment, DRDO is ensuring that advanced indigenous materials are available not only for strategic defence applications but also for industrial and commercial use.
Conclusion
The transfer of high-strength radomes, DMR-1700 steel sheets, and DMR 249A HSLA steel plates marks a historic advancement in India’s defence and naval ecosystem. These technologies, developed by DRDO’s DMRL, highlight the nation’s ability to innovate, scale, and collaborate with industry giants for maximum impact.
With trusted partners like BHEL, JSPL, and SAIL-BSP now licensed to manufacture these critical materials, India is set to strengthen its defence capabilities, enhance naval power, and accelerate the journey toward technological independence. This is not just a milestone for DRDO—it is a turning point for India’s defence industry and a beacon of progress for the future.
Note: All information and images used in this content are sourced from Google. They are used here for informational and illustrative purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What technologies has DRDO transferred to industry partners?
DRDO has transferred three advanced materials technologies:
- High-strength radomes for missile systems.
- DMR-1700 steel sheets and plates for defence applications.
- DMR 249A HSLA steel plates for naval vessel construction.
2. Which companies received these DRDO technologies?
The technologies were handed over to three major industry partners:
- BHEL, Jagdishpur – for high-strength radomes.
- JSPL, Angul – for DMR-1700 steel sheets and plates.
- SAIL, Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) – for DMR 249A HSLA steel plates.
3. How will these technologies strengthen India’s defence sector?
These advanced materials will enhance the durability, reliability, and performance of missile systems, defence equipment, and naval vessels. By enabling large-scale production in India, they will also reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, strengthening national security and self-reliance.
4. What is special about DMR-1700 steel?
DMR-1700 steel sheets and plates offer an excellent balance of ultra-high strength and high fracture toughness at room temperature. This makes them ideal for critical defence applications where both strength and resilience are required.
5. What is DMR 249A HSLA steel used for?
DMR 249A HSLA (High-Strength Low-Alloy) steel is specifically designed for naval applications. It meets stringent dimensional, physical, and metallurgical requirements, making it suitable for building robust and reliable naval vessels.
6. What are radomes, and why are they important?
Radomes are protective covers for missile sensors and communication systems. They shield sensitive equipment from environmental damage while ensuring accurate signal transmission, which is vital for the effectiveness of missile systems.
7. When and where was the technology transfer event held?
The Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) documents were handed over on August 30 at an event organised at DMRL, Hyderabad.
8. Who represented DRDO at this event?
The event was led by Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, who officially handed over the agreements to the industry partners.
9. How will industry partnerships benefit from this collaboration?
Partnering with established players like BHEL, JSPL, and SAIL ensures that these innovations can be rapidly scaled for both commercial and strategic use. This accelerates deployment, strengthens India’s industrial ecosystem, and supports the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
10. Did DRDO sign any other agreements at the event?
Yes. An MoU was also signed between DMRL and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. This collaboration will utilise DMRL’s expertise and facilities to support civil aviation safety.