DRDO finally arrives after decades of struggle
The 1980s saw a transformative leap for the struggling DRDO with the launch of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), led by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
This initiative resulted in the creation of the first the Prithvi series, then the Agni series, followed by Akash surface-to-air missiles, Nag antitank missiles, and the Trishul quick-response system—establishing a new era in indigenous deterrence capability.
All this was achieved in spite of stiff opposition and embargo by the Missile Technology Control Regime.However India beat them hollow.
Now over forty years later,the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), overcoming most of the obstacles, has transformed from a struggling research entity to a cornerstone of India’s defence infrastructure.
Facing persistent denial regimes, international sanctions, and strict technology controls, DRDO’s progress relied on the nation’s resolve and the dedication of its scientists and industry partners.
DRDO-developed systems now play a direct role in frontline military operations. Notably, technologies developed by DRDO were pivotal during Operation Sindoor—India’s recent campaign targeting terrorist infrastructure inside Pakistan—where indigenous platforms helped neutralise enemy assets and strengthen border security. Advanced Chinese and American supplied systems were outmaneuvered or neutralized or destroyed without much hassles.
Indian armed forces successfully utilised technologies such as the Akash missile system, BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, and innovative anti-drone solutions, effectively countering Pakistani aggression and defending vital assets.
These deployments highlight DRDO’s capability to address evolving threats, including drone warfare, with advanced indigenous solutions. Chinese and American satellites trying to monitor the Indian airbases were beaten in their own game.
DRDO’s mission now spans underwater, maritime, terrestrial, aerial, space, and cyber domains, driving India toward defence self-reliance.
The organisation increasingly prioritises minimal reliance on imports, aiming for indigenous manufacturing at scale and enabling India’s transition from an importer to a growing exporter of defence equipment.
Over sixty years, DRDO has delivered an impressive array of equipment that includes advanced missiles, fighter aircraft, radars, directed-energy weapons, and underwater sensors.
Its institutional presence covers more than fifty laboratories and centres staffed by around thirty thousand scientists, engineers, and support personnel.
Parallel progress in aeronautics led to major breakthroughs such as the TEJAS light combat aircraft, a symbol of Indian engineering prowess that achieved full operational clearance, entered squadron service, and modernised the Indian Air Force fleet with a multirole fighter built entirely on Indian soil.
Supporting projects including the Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system and a portfolio of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have enhanced the surveillance, control, and operational flexibility of the Indian Air Force.
These achievements reflect DRDO’s expanding focus across key domains and underline its vital role in securing India’s technological sovereignty.
