In a significant boost to self-reliance (Atmanirbharta), the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has granted seven new projects to private MSMEs and start-ups defence industries under the Technology Development Fund scheme. These projects aim to cater to the diverse requirements of the armed forces and the aerospace and defence sectors. These project approvals signify DRDO’s ongoing efforts to support industries, especially MSMEs and start-ups, in the defence and aerospace fields. The indigenous development of these technologies will enhance the military-industrial ecosystem. According to the Defence Ministry statement, the following are the details of the sanctioned projects:
Indigenous Scenario and Sensor Simulation Toolkit
This project aims to develop a toolkit for simulating realistic scenarios to train pilots. The toolkit will enable full mission planning and large-force engagement. The project has been awarded to the startup company Oxygen 2 Innovation Pvt Ltd, located in Noida.
Underwater Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
This project focuses on developing versatile marine battlefield accessories for various combat roles. The main objectives are Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and maritime domain awareness (MDA). The project has been awarded to Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd, based in Pune.
Long-range Remotely Operated Vehicles for Detection & Neutralisation
This project focuses on developing Long-range Remotely Operated Vehicles to detect and neutralise underwater objects. This system will allow the identification, classification, localisation, and neutralisation of underwater objects while keeping important assets away from the operational area. The project has been awarded to IROV Technologies Pvt Limited, located in Kochi.
Development of Ice Detection Sensor for Aircraft
The project involves developing an Ice Detection Sensor for Aircraft. This sensor aims to detect icing conditions during flight caused by supercooled water droplets that freeze upon impact with the aircraft’s external surfaces. The data collected by the sensor will be used to activate the aircraft’s anti-icing mechanism. Craftlogic Labs Pvt Ltd, based in Bengaluru, has been awarded this project.
Development of Radar Signal Processor with Active Antenna Array Simulator
This project, sanctioned to Data Pattern (India) Limited in Chennai, will enable the deployment of a multiple-target system for testing and evaluating multiple short-range aerial weapon systems. It will serve as the basic building block for larger radar systems.
Development of Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System-based Timing Acquisition & Dissemination System
Accord Software & Systems Pvt Ltd in Bengaluru has been sanctioned this project, which aims to enable the indigenisation of timing acquisition and dissemination systems, utilize the Indian Constellation for acquiring time, and develop a customized and flexible timing system based on range requirements.
Development of Graphene-Based Smart & E-textiles for Multifunctional Wearable Applications
Alohatech Private Limited in Coimbatore has been sanctioned this project, which will focus on developing conductive yarn and fabric-making processes using graphene nanomaterials and conductive inks. The outcome will be advanced nanocomposite materials-based E-textiles utilising the inherent advantages for practical clothing applications.
Team BharatShakti
