New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of technology for all conventional missile systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to eligible Indian defence companies for domestic production, the Ministry of Defence said on August 25. The move is aimed at accelerating indigenous missile manufacturing and reducing India’s dependence on foreign suppliers.
Under the initiative, qualified Indian industries will be able to undertake production of DRDO-developed conventional missile systems, subject to prescribed qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements. The government said the decision will help move missile systems from the development stage to large-scale industrial production while strengthening India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The initiative is also expected to expand the participation of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other technology partners in the defence supply chain. According to the Defence Ministry, the technology transfer will increase domestic value addition, create manufacturing opportunities and strengthen India’s ability to develop and sustain critical defence capabilities within the country.
The decision comes amid growing emphasis on advanced military technologies, including missiles, satellite-based surveillance, communications and precision-strike capabilities. A recent analysis by the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies highlighted the rapid expansion of Pakistan’s space capabilities, including its growing cooperation with China. The development has underscored the importance of strengthening India’s indigenous defence and strategic technology capabilities.
The latest approval forms part of the government’s broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative in the defence sector. India has increasingly sought to expand private-sector participation in defence manufacturing while reducing reliance on imports. The government has also opened several areas, including missile manufacturing, artillery shells, ammunition and ordnance, to greater private-sector participation.
India’s defence production reached a record ₹1.54 lakh crore in 2024-25, while defence exports touched an all-time high of ₹23,622 crore. The government has set a target of ₹1.75 lakh crore in defence production during the current financial year and aims to raise domestic defence production to ₹3 lakh crore by 2029.
The DRDO has reiterated its commitment to working with Indian industry to facilitate the absorption of advanced defence technologies. The latest technology-transfer decision is therefore expected to deepen the partnership between the country’s premier defence research organisation and domestic manufacturers while strengthening India’s long-term defence preparedness and self-reliance.
