JUNE 08: In a significant step towards fostering a strong indigenous defence industrial ecosystem, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred the technologies of nine advanced systems to 10 Indian industries. The initiative, led by the Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE), a DRDO lab based in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to promoting private and public sector participation in defence manufacturing.
The licensing agreements were formally handed over during a ceremony held at VRDE on June 7, 2025, in the presence of Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO. The technologies span a wide range of defence platforms, from tracked combat vehicles to mobile shelters and decontamination systems.
Key systems transferred include the CBRN Recce Vehicle (Tracked) Mk-II, licensed to Bharat Electronics Limited, and the Mounted Gun System, taken up by Bharat Forge Limited. Other notable technologies include the Anti-Terrorist Vehicle – Tracked Version licensed to Metaltech Motor Bodies Pvt. Ltd., and the Full Trailer of 70-ton Tank Transporter for MBT Arjun Mk-1A, transferred to BEML, Tata International Vehicle Applications, SDR Auto Pvt. Ltd., and John Galt International.
Bharat Electronics also received rights for the Expandable Mobile Shelter, while Tata Advanced Systems Limited will manufacture the Vajra-Riot Control Vehicle. BEML further acquired the Unit Maintenance Vehicle and Unit Repair Vehicle technologies for the Arjun Main Battle Tank. The Multi-Purpose Decontamination System was licensed to Dass Hitachi Ltd. and Goma Engineering Pvt. Ltd.
Adding to the momentum, VRDE also entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with COEP Technological University, Pune, to collaborate on cutting-edge defence technologies and emerging areas of innovation.
Addressing the event, Dr. Kamat lauded DRDO and its industry partners for the stellar performance of indigenous systems during Operation Sindoor. He also encouraged industry players to build surge manufacturing capabilities to meet urgent demands.
Prof. (Dr.) Prateek Kishore, Director General (Armament and Combat Engineering) DRDO, and VRDE Director Shri G. Ramamohana Rao also addressed the gathering, which included senior scientists and representatives from partner industries, marking a new chapter in public-private synergy for defence advancement.