From Kaveri engine to high-speed UAVs, DRDO's trailblazing achievements under Modi years

New Delhi: In the annals of India's defense history, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) stands as a beacon of innovation and technological prowess. As the premium R&D wing of India's Ministry of Defence, DRDO has relentlessly pursued its vision to empower India with cutting-edge defense technologies. With a mission to achieve self-reliance in critical defense technologies, DRDO has played a pivotal role in equipping India's armed forces with state-of-the-art weapon systems and equipment.

Notably, under the governance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the past few years emerged as a watershed moment for DRDO, marked by several groundbreaking achievements that underscored India's growing technological prowess in the defense sector. Republic has compiled a list of top 5 milestones that epitomize DRDO's commitment to advancing India's defense capabilities. 

1. Kaveri Derivative Engine's High-Altitude Chamber Tests 

In a significant stride towards self-reliance in defense technology, the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under DRDO successfully conducted high-altitude chamber tests of the indigenous Kaveri derivative engine. This milestone paves the way for the development of the Dry Kaveri engine, with private sector company Godrej slated to manufacture it. The funding for manufacturing five new Kaveri derivative prototype engines sets the stage for Phase II testing, signifying a quantum leap in India's defense technological capabilities. 

2. Submarine-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) Test 

India achieved a historic milestone with the successful test of its first submarine-launched cruise missile, boasting an impressive range of 402 kilometers. Initially shrouded in secrecy, the clandestine nature of the SLCM test was later revealed by DRDO, underscoring India's enhanced naval firepower. The compatibility of the SLCM with existing submarine fleets bolsters India's naval strength and strategic deterrence capabilities. 

3. Transfer of Fuel-Cell AIP System Technology 

DRDO's transfer of Fuel-Cell Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system technology to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) marks a significant milestone in India's submarine warfare capabilities. Set to be incorporated into the Kalvari Class submarines, the AIP system's successful demonstrations have cleared the path for its production, positioning India among a select group of nations with indigenous AIP capabilities. 

4. Advancements in Akash Missile System 

DRDO's Akash missile system achieved a momentous breakthrough by demonstrating the capability to engage four aerial targets simultaneously at a range of 25 kilometers. India's achievement as the first country to achieve this capability using a single firing unit underscores its prowess in air defense technology. The Akash missile's role in safeguarding vulnerable areas from air attacks reaffirms India's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities. 

5. High-Speed Flying-Wing UAV's Autonomous Landing 

In a display of cutting-edge technology, DRDO successfully conducted a flight trial of an indigenous high-speed flying-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), showcasing its autonomous landing capability. This UAV's ability to take off and land without the need for ground infrastructure or a pilot highlights its versatility and potential applications across various domains. 

A legacy of innovation: DRDO's evolution 

Since its inception in 1958, DRDO has evolved into a multi-directional force, with a plethora of achievements spanning various disciplines and laboratories. From its humble beginnings with 10 establishments, DRDO has grown exponentially, spearheading the development and production of strategic systems and platforms like the Agni and Prithvi series of missiles, Tejas, Pinaka, and Akash air defense system. 

As DRDO continues to push the boundaries of innovation, its recent successes serve as a testament to India's commitment to achieving self-reliance in defense technology. With ongoing projects like the Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM), Smart Stand-off Anti-Tank (SANT) Missile, and Mobile Autonomous Robot System (MARS), DRDO remains at the forefront of India's quest for technological supremacy in the defense arena.