DRDO has transferred three breakthrough defence materials technologies to Indian industry, marking a big step for India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) were officially handed over on August 30, 2025, at DRDO’s Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), Hyderabad.
These technologies will boost missile systems, armour, and naval shipbuilding while reducing import dependency and empowering Indian firms.
DRDO Chairman Samir V. Kamat led the ceremony, signaling progress in the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Technologies Transferred: Key Details
1. High-Strength Radome Manufacturing to BHEL, Jagdishpur
- Radomes protect sensitive sensors and antennas of missiles and radars.
- Indigenous technology provides high strength, thermal resistance, and stealth capability.
- Supports key missile programmes and strengthens India’s missile defence arsenal.
2. DMR-1700 Steel Sheets and Plates to JSPL, Angul
- DMR-1700 steel: Known for ultra-high strength and high fracture toughness at room temperature.
- Ideal for armour plating and defence systems.
- JSPL will manufacture and scale production for strategic combat uses.
3. DMR 249A HSLA Steel Plates to BSP (SAIL), Bhilai
- Special HSLA (High Strength Low Alloy) steel for naval vessels—durable, corrosion-resistant, and meets exacting metallurgical standards.
- Will power new Indian Navy ships and boost export potential.
Strengthening Industry-Research Collaboration
- Transfers are part of DRDO’s industry-inclusive R&D model—bringing cutting-edge materials from lab to large-scale industry.
- Reduces India’s dependence on defence imports and accelerates Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
An MoU was also signed between DMRL and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) to utilize DMRL’s metallurgical expertise for aviation safety.
Significance for Defence and Strategic Sectors
- Enables indigenous manufacture of vital military materials—critical for defence self-sufficiency.
- Empowers public and private sector industries with world-class technology.
- Advances India’s capability in ballistic, naval, and aviation domains.
- Sets precedent for dual-use innovation benefitting both strategic and commercial sectors.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Lab: DMRL, Hyderabad (DRDO)
- Technologies Transferred: Radomes (BHEL), DMR-1700 steel (JSPL), DMR 249A HSLA steel (BSP, SAIL)
- Uses: Missile systems, defence armour, naval shipbuilding
- Date: 30 August 2025 (LAToT handover)
- Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat and industry-academia partnerships in defence
- MoU signed with AAIB for aviation safety investigations
