India’s decision to open conventional missile production to private industry marks a historic departure from the state-run monopoly, aiming to accelerate industrial-scale manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and strengthen self-reliance in defence.

The move excludes nuclear-capable systems but covers a wide range of tactical missiles, reflecting both strategic necessity and lessons from global conflicts.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has formally approved the transfer of Defence Research and Development Organisation technologies for all conventional missile systems to qualified Indian companies. This initiative allows private firms to manufacture DRDO-developed missiles once they meet prescribed certifications and regulatory requirements.

The conventional missile portfolio being opened includes the Akash and Akash-NG surface-to-air systems, Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORADS), Astra air-to-air missiles, Rudram anti-radiation missiles, and anti-tank systems such as Nag, SANT and the man-portable ATGM.

It also covers the NASM-SR anti-ship missile, indigenous land-attack cruise missiles, and Pralay, the quasi-ballistic missile designed for conventional strikes. Strategic systems such as the Agni and K-series remain outside the framework, as do joint ventures like BrahMos and MRSAM.

This marks a decisive shift from the traditional model where Bharat Dynamics Limited was the sole integrator of DRDO missiles. Now, private industry will compete through bidding to secure technology licences.

Companies such as Adani Defence, Bharat Forge, ICOMM Tele, and Solar Defence have already been designated as Development-cum-Production Partners for tactical missile programs.

Technology Transfer packages will include assembly rights, engineering drawings, process details, quality assurance plans, spares data, and maintenance support.

This ensures Indian firms gain full capability to manufacture, sustain, and upgrade missile systems. Intellectual property arrangements will vary, but DRDO’s standard model provides for non-exclusive licences.

The Defence Ministry emphasised that the initiative will strengthen domestic manufacturing, reduce reliance on imports, and create opportunities for MSMEs and technology partners to participate in the missile supply chain. It is expected to expand industrial capacity, improve lifecycle support, and enable faster scaling of production when operational demand rises.

The timing is significant. Lessons from conflicts such as Russia-Ukraine and West Asia have highlighted the importance of affordable mass in conventional missiles and the risks of import dependence.

India’s move is also seen as a response to regional developments, including Pakistan’s creation of an Army Rocket Force Command and China’s expanding military capabilities.

India’s defence production has already intensified, with over 15,700 items indigenised in recent years, resulting in import substitution worth around ₹9,000 crore.

Defence PSUs have placed procurement orders worth approximately ₹10,000 crore with domestic vendors up to March 2026. The sixth positive indigenisation list, covering 405 items including missile systems and defence electronics, further underscores the government’s push for Atmanirbharta.

By enabling private industry to manufacture DRDO-developed conventional missiles, India is bridging the gap between research and industrial-scale production.

This initiative strengthens the defence industrial base, enhances operational readiness, and aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Agencies