DRDO and IIT Bhubaneswar Collaborate on Defence Technology Projects

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar have initiated a partnership aimed at advancing research in electronics warfare, AI-driven surveillance, power systems, and radar systems. DRDO has sanctioned nine projects from the Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) Cluster to IIT Bhubaneswar, with an additional seven projects awaiting approval, backed by ₹18 crore in funding.

Collaboration Announcement

Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating that it signifies a shift from knowledge generation to practical application, entrepreneurship, and producing skilled professionals. He sees this partnership as a pathway to excellence in defence research and technology.

Research Focus

Head of the School of Electrical Sciences at IIT, Prof S.R. Samantaray, emphasized that the collaboration is aligned with the evolving needs of defence applications, contributing to the vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India). He believes this collaboration will bolster defence research programs, fostering sustainability and contributing to the national ecosystem.

Common Cause

Director General of the ECS Cluster at DRDO, Dr. Binay K. Das, expressed the intent behind the collaboration, emphasizing its goal to address the future needs of the nation in defence technology. The partnership aims to work collectively towards advancing defence capabilities and strengthening India’s position in the field of defence research and development.