DRDO: Defending The Nation With Cutting-Edge Innovations

The Dawn of Defence Innovation

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was born in 1958 through the unification of the Technical Development Establishment, the Directorate of Technical Development & Production, and the Defence Science Organisation.

This marked the start of India's journey towards self-reliance in defence technologies. DRDO laid the foundation for defence R&D by establishing labs and launching key projects in aeronautics, electronics, and armaments, aiming to develop indigenous technologies for the armed forces.

Initial Phases

The 1970s and 1980s were pivotal in shaping DRDO’s trajectory. The Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), initiated under the leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in the early 1980s, became a defining moment for DRDO. The program led to the development of a series of indigenous missiles, including the Prithvi, Agni, Trishul, Akash and Nag missiles, cementing India’s position as a missile power.

Scaling New Heights

During the 1990s, DRDO expanded into radar, electronic warfare and nuclear technology, playing a key role in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests. The development of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas further highlighted India's growing aerospace capabilities and commitment to self-reliance.

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