DRDO: Boost and build our capabilities amid systematic challenges

So glad to meet and present my book to Dr Samir V Kamat Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO. In my book, I argued for DRDO's staggering scale on tech; only R&D institutions for future tech, despite cumulative R&D 0.64% of GDP, less than all major economies with lesser public and private sector Industries. What is DRDO can do? What should it do?

India's achievements in 2024 spanned three strategic technologies: a ballistic missile equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs), its first long-range hypersonic missile, and the successful test of the K4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from a nuclear-powered submarine. However, I see more in launching submarine systems like air-independent propulsion systems AIP by DRDO in a shorter time and multiple groundbreaking works on Indigenous AEW&C among others, to begin with.

Now the point of deliberation is to break new ground in technologies which the Indian military needs to fight a modern war--hugely network-centric areas, electromagnetic areas, including air/space and air defence with broad elements.

Interestingly, I must point out that other critical areas like jet engines, and marine propulsion systems are largely and should be driven by the defence industry with the support and direction of the government's visionary and bold scientists.

I intend to bring forth clarity, policy clarity, direction and industrial thrust on this in a resolute manner. Global and local can apprise me on this in case they are determined to add to this innovation to co-create, design and produce or produce here in India.