New Delhi: Driving innovation in India’s defence sector with seven new projects, the Defence Research & Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Technology Development Fund (TDF) is fostering self-reliance through collaborations with MSMEs and startups, advancing cutting-edge technologies from underwater UAVs to graphene-based textiles.
Taking a significant step under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, DRDO has sanctioned seven new projects to foster innovation and technological advancements within the country, particularly among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups, which are pivotal to the defence and aerospace sectors.
As a cornerstone of the DRDO’s efforts to promote Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, in defence technology, by awarding these projects to private industries under the TDF scheme, DRDO has not only added momentum to the development of cutting-edge technologies but also strengthened the military industrial ecosystem in India. The involvement of MSMEs and start-ups in these projects underscores the emphasis on nurturing home-grown talent and resources, ensuring that the defence sector benefits from the agility and innovation of smaller enterprises.
This initiative seeks to fulfil the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces while also enabling future exports to allied nations, representing a crucial advancement in India’s defence export strategy.
Under the new projects, Indigenous Scenario and Sensor Simulation Toolkit has been awarded to Oxygen 2 Innovation Pvt Ltd, Noida, to develop a toolkit for simulator training of pilots, offering realistic scenarios for full mission planning and large force engagement. This indigenous tool will significantly enhance pilot training and operational preparedness.
Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd, Pune was awarded Underwater Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to create a versatile unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can be deployed underwater for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) as well as Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). This project aims to revolutionise marine battlefield accessories.
IROV Technologies Pvt Limited, Kochi was awarded Long-Range Remotely Operated Vehicles for Detection & Neutralisation to develop dual-use remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) capable of detecting, classifying, localising, and neutralising underwater objects, thereby keeping key assets safe from operational threats. These ROVs will enhance underwater security and operational efficiency.
To develop sensors to detect icing conditions in-flight, enabling the activation of aircraft anti-icing mechanisms, the Development of Ice Detection Sensor for Aircraft project was awarded to Craftlogic Labs Pvt Ltd, Bengaluru,. This technology is crucial for enhancing flight safety and performance in adverse weather conditions.
The project for Development of Radar Signal Processor with Active Antenna Array Simulator was awarded to Data Pattern (India) Limited, Chennai. They will create a radar signal processor integrated with an active antenna array simulator. This system will facilitate the test and evaluation of multiple short-range aerial weapon systems, serving as a fundamental building block for larger radar systems.
Accord Software & Systems Pvt Ltd, Bengaluru was awarded Development of Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System-based Timing Acquisition & Dissemination System to enable the indigenisation of timing acquisition and dissemination systems using the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). This project aims to develop a customised and flexible timing system tailored to range requirements, promoting the use of indigenous satellite technology.
The project for Development of Graphene-Based Smart & E-textiles for Multifunctional Wearable Applications was awarded to Alohatech Private Limited, Coimbatore. Alohatech will develop conductive yarn and fabric-making processes using graphene nanomaterials and conductive inks. The outcome will be advanced nanocomposite materials-based E-textiles, which can be used in practical clothing applications. This project highlights the potential of integrating advanced materials into wearable technology for defence applications.
