The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organized a DRDO-Industry Meet on Sunday, during the Maharashtra MSME Defence Expo 2024 in Pune. The primary objective of the meeting was to inform and update industries, especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups, about various industry-friendly initiatives and policies of DRDO. Additionally, it aimed to address industry concerns.
During the event, DRDO took a significant step by handing over 23 licensing agreements for transfer of technology (LATOT) to 22 industries. The technologies covered a range of domains such as electronics, laser technology, armaments, life sciences, materials science, combat vehicles, naval systems, and aeronautics.
These technologies include the manufacturing of Carbon/Carbon Aircraft brakes for LCA Tejas, Infantry Foot Bridge Floating, 40 mm High Explosive Anti-Personnel Grenade for UBGL, full Trailer of 70t Tank Transporter for MBT Arjun Mk – 1A, Expendable Mobile Shelter Solar Heated Shelter, NMR-Supercapacitor, Weaponisation of Hand-Held Thermal Imager with LRF (WHHTI) and High Pressure Water Mist Fire Suppression System (HP WMFSS). The adoption of these technologies is expected to further strengthen the defence manufacturing sector and contribute to self-reliance in defence.
DRDO also presented SAMAR (System for Advance Manufacturing Assessment and Rating) assessment certificates to nine Industry Partners. SAMAR serves as a benchmark to gauge the competency of defence manufacturing enterprises, with an overview provided during the event.
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, emphasized DRDO’s commitment to supporting the development of Indian defence industries for the realization of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He highlighted the recent successes of DRDO products, making the nation more self-reliant in defence technology and offering significant opportunities to the defence manufacturing sector.
An Open House session allowed industries to express their challenges, expectations, and required support, providing a platform to refine the framework for ease of doing business.
The industry was also briefed on DRDO’s latest policies and procedures, including Transfer of Technologies, Test & Evaluation support, Technological and scientific support, R&D funding under TDF, and Free use of DRDO patents through the SAMAR scheme. The collaborative efforts between DRDO and the industry aim to propel India as a hub for defence manufacturing.