DRDO Enhances Defence Manufacturing at Industry Meet

In a significant move aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in the defence sector, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organized a DRDO-Industry Meet during the Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo 2024 in Pune on February 25, 2024. The meet served as a platform to apprise industries, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups, about various industry-friendly initiatives and policies of DRDO, while also addressing industry concerns. During the event, DRDO handed over 23 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LATOT) to 22 industries in the presence of Secretary Department of Defence (R&D) and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat, along with other dignitaries. These agreements cover a wide range of domains including electronics, laser technology, armaments, life sciences, materials science, combat vehicles, naval systems, and aeronautics. Notable technologies transferred include Manufacturing of Carbon/Carbon Aircraft brakes for LCA Tejas, Infantry Foot Bridge Floating, High Explosive Anti-Personnel Grenade for UBGL, and Weaponisation of Hand-Held Thermal Imager with LRF (WHHTI). These technologies are expected to further bolster the defence manufacturing sector and contribute to self-reliance in defence. Additionally, DRDO presented SAMAR (System for Advance Manufacturing Assessment and Rating) assessment certificates to nine Industry Partners. SAMAR serves as a benchmark to evaluate the competency of defence manufacturing enterprises, providing valuable recognition to industry players. Addressing the industry partners, Dr Kamat reiterated DRDO's commitment to supporting the development of Indian defence industries in line with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat outlined by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He highlighted the recent successes of DRDO products, emphasizing the immense opportunities they present to the defence manufacturing sector. Dr Kamat underscored the importance of industry collaboration and urged Indian industries to leverage the latest initiatives and policies of the Government to establish the country as a hub of defence manufacturing. An Open House session was also organized during the meet, providing an opportunity for industries to voice their challenges, expectations, and support needs. This interactive session aimed to refine the framework for ease of doing business and facilitate industry growth. Furthermore, the industry was briefed on various policies and procedures through which DRDO supports industries, including Transfer of Technologies, Test & Evaluation support, R&D funding under TDF, and Free use of DRDO patents by industry, alongside an overview of the SAMAR scheme. The DRDO-Industry Meet marks a significant step towards strengthening partnerships between DRDO and the industry, driving innovation, and enhancing India's capabilities in defence manufacturing.