The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has shortlisted SSS Defence and Kalyani Group as Development cum Production Partners (DcPP) for the development of an indigenous 20 mm aviation gun and turret system intended for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL’s) DHRUV MK-IV Rudra and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand fleets, CNN-News18 reported.

The project is being led by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), DRDO’s specialist armaments laboratory responsible for the design and development of conventional weapon systems, ammunition and associated technologies. ARDE works with both public- and private-sector industry partners to convert indigenous designs into operational military systems.

The program follows a memorandum of understanding signed between ARDE and HAL last year to jointly pursue the indigenisation of critical helicopter weapon systems. A competitive bidding process was subsequently conducted, from which SSS Defence and Kalyani Group emerged as the selected development partners.

Development of the new 20 mm gun and turret system is expected to take approximately two years. Following successful development, qualification and acceptance trials, production orders will be awarded under a split procurement model. The lowest bidder will receive 60 per cent of the order, while the remaining 40 per cent will go to the second partner.

The initiative represents the first indigenous design and development effort for an aviation medium-calibre gun system in India. It forms part of a wider national effort to strengthen self-reliance in critical defence technologies and reduce dependence on overseas suppliers.

The 20 mm turret gun is a key element of an armed helicopter’s weapon suite, providing rapid and precise engagement of ground targets during combat operations and close air support missions. The Rudra is configured to carry a mix of weapons including a 20 mm turret gun, 70 mm rocket pods and guided missiles.

The indigenous Prachand attack helicopter is similarly equipped with a 20 mm turret gun, 70 mm rockets and anti-tank guided missiles. The Indian Army has previously conducted day and night firing trials of the helicopter’s existing turret gun system.

At present, the turret gun integrated on the Prachand is sourced from European defence company KNDS. The new program is expected to provide a domestic alternative, strengthening supply-chain security and expanding India’s indigenous aerospace armament capabilities.

Beyond reducing import dependence, the project is expected to enhance domestic expertise in aerospace weapons integration, turret systems and aviation-grade armament manufacturing, supporting the long-term growth of India’s indigenous helicopter weapons ecosystem.

Agencies