DRDO Reshapes Research Focus for Stronger Defense R&D
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken a major step towards enhancing its research focus by redefining and expanding its Research Verticals and Thrust Areas across its Industry Academia – Centres of Excellence (DIA-CoEs). Announced on February 7, 2025, by the Directorate of Futuristic Technology Management (DFTM) at DRDO headquarters in New Delhi, this move aims to streamline research efforts, incorporate cutting-edge technologies, and strengthen India’s defense capabilities.
Earlier, DRDO had 65 Research Verticals across 15 DIA-CoEs, but with this expansion, the number has grown to 82. This shift ensures that DRDO laboratories can explore future technology requirements in greater depth, especially in deep technology research areas. By refining the research focus, DRDO aims to enhance innovation, collaboration, and efficiency in defense research.
The primary objective behind this expansion is to minimize redundancy and optimize resource utilization. This restructuring also allows for better synergy between academia, industry, and DRDO to accelerate the development of advanced defense technologies.
Several new research domains have been introduced to ensure that DRDO stays ahead in defense innovation. The newly included areas and their respective academic partners are:
Compound Semiconductor Technologies (IIT Bombay): Research on advanced semiconductor materials to boost the performance of electronic and photonic devices.
Laser Beam Combining-Based Communication, Power Transmission & Manufacturing (IIT Hyderabad): Investigating laser applications in communication, energy transfer, manufacturing, and material recycling.
Software Defined Radios (IIT Kanpur): Developing adaptable radio systems that can be reprogrammed for various communication standards.
Emerging RF Technologies (IIT Roorkee): Exploring advancements in radio frequency technologies for better communication and sensing systems.
Cryptography and Information Security (IIT Kharagpur): Strengthening cybersecurity and data protection to safeguard sensitive defense information.
These additions align with the growing need for secure, advanced, and efficient defense technologies in the modern warfare landscape.
DRDO’s move is part of a larger reform strategy aimed at making India’s defense R&D more effective, collaborative, and future-ready. This restructuring aligns with recommendations from an August 2023 committee led by former Principal Scientific Advisor Vijay Raghavan, which was tasked with revamping DRDO’s operations. The committee’s key recommendations included:
By implementing these changes, DRDO is ensuring that India’s defense sector is well-equipped to meet future challenges. The focus on emerging technologies, deep research, and academic partnerships will play a crucial role in strengthening India’s defense preparedness in the coming years.
Why in News | Key Points |
---|---|
DRDO Announces Redefinition of Research Verticals | DRDO expanded Research Verticals from 65 to 82 across 15 DIA-CoEs. |
Date of Announcement | February 7, 2025 |
Key Areas of Research | New areas added: Compound Semiconductor Technologies, Laser Beam Combining, Software Defined Radios, Emerging RF Technologies, Cryptography and Information Security. |
Committee Recommendations | Led by Vijay Raghavan (Former Principal Scientific Advisor) to revamp DRDO’s operations. |
DIA-CoEs Involved | IIT Bombay, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Kanpur, IIT Roorkee, IIT Kharagpur |
Focus of Research | Deep technology research for future defense technologies and collaboration between academia and industry. |
Objective of the Overhaul | Minimize redundancy, optimize resource utilization, and address future defense challenges. |
Mumbai Indians secured their second WPL title in three seasons, defeating Delhi Capitals by 8…
The Women's Premier League kicks off again on February 23rd, with a rematch of last…
France is home to many beautiful and historic cities, each with its own unique charm.…
Canada is a country known for its love of sports. Many games are played across…
India finished on top of the medal tally at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix…
Some people leave a lasting impact on the world with their talent, creativity and hard…