Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its 68th Foundation Day on January 1, 2026.

About Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) 

• Formation: DRDO was established in 1958 through the merger of existing entities, including the Technical Development Establishment (TDEs) of the Indian Army, the Directorate of Technical Development and Production (DTDP), and the Defence Science Organisation (DSO). 
• Organisational Structure: 
  • Leadership: DRDO is headed by the Secretary, Department of Defence, R & D, who also serves as the Chairman of DRDO.
  • Chief Controllers: The DG is supported by Chief Controllers, who are senior scientists overseeing various technology domains within DRDO.
  • Technology Clusters: DRDO operates through seven technology clusters, each focusing on specific areas of defence technology:
    • Aeronautical Systems (Aero)
    • Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE)
    • Electronics and Communication Systems
    • Micro Electronic Devices and Computational Systems Cyber Security (MCC)
    • Missiles and Strategic Systems (MSS)
    • Naval Systems and Materials (NS & M)
    • Soldier Support System (SSS)
  • Laboratories: DRDO is composed of 53 specialized laboratories and 05 DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs)  located across India.
    • These laboratories collaborate closely with the Indian Armed Forces, industry, and academic institutions to drive innovation and technological advancements.

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Key Achievements of DRDO in 2025

• Defence Systems Delivered: In 2025, DRDO achieved significant milestones, with several indigenous defence systems being delivered, inducted, or handed over to users. 
  • Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS)
  • Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile System ‘Anant Shastra’
  • Astra Mk-II (BVRAAM)
  • Anti-Tank NAG Missile System Mk-2
  • Long Range Air-to-Surface Supersonic Cruise Missile (LRASSCM)
  • Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS) MK II
• Research and Development: Several systems were in the User Evaluation Trials or in the final stages of development, such as the Surface to Air Missile Akash NG, Surface to Surface Missile ‘Pralay’, Guided Extended Range Rocket ‘Pinaka’, and Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM).

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