DRDO Launches SHIELD Program To Build S-Band High-Power Microwave Evaluation System

Defence Research and Development Organisation has issued a Request for Proposal for an advanced S-band High-Power Microwave Integrated Evaluation System for Lethality and Damage, codenamed SHIELD.

The project is being pursued under the Technology Development Fund scheme, which is designed to accelerate indigenous defence technology programs by supporting industry-led innovation.

The proposed system is modular and scalable, ensuring adaptability across a wide range of operational and testing environments. It will employ Gallium Nitride-based Solid State Power Amplifier technology, which is known for its efficiency, high power density, and resilience under demanding conditions.

The system is expected to achieve a peak electric field strength of at least 3 kV/m in the far field, a significant threshold for evaluating the vulnerability of electronic systems to high-power microwave radiation.

The SHIELD platform will operate in pulsed mode with flexible duty cycles, allowing researchers and defence technologists to simulate diverse electromagnetic attack scenarios.

Advanced thermal management solutions are being integrated to ensure sustained performance and reliability during extended operation, a critical requirement for high-power microwave systems.

The system is designed as a versatile evaluation platform to study and quantify the lethality and damage potential of S-band HPM radiation against electronic systems.

This includes testing the resilience of communication equipment, sensors, and control systems that may be exposed to directed-energy threats in battlefield conditions. By providing a structured evaluation framework, SHIELD will help establish benchmarks for survivability and countermeasure development.

A notable feature of the system is its drone-mountable capability. This opens up possibilities for airborne deployment, enabling flexible testing scenarios and operational demonstrations.

Drone-mounted HPM systems are increasingly being studied worldwide as potential solutions to counter drone swarms and electronic threats, offering mobility and rapid deployment advantages.

Globally, high-power microwave weapons are considered part of the directed-energy arsenal, alongside high-energy lasers. Countries such as the United States, China, Russia, and the United Kingdom have invested heavily in this domain, recognising its potential to disable adversary electronics without kinetic destruction.

India’s pursuit of SHIELD reflects a strategic push to build indigenous directed-energy capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

The Technology Development Fund scheme has already supported several private defence firms and Start-Ups in developing niche technologies. By issuing this RFP, DRDO is signalling its intent to involve industry partners in building a critical evaluation infrastructure for directed-energy systems. 

This aligns with the broader defence modernisation program, which emphasises electronic warfare, non-kinetic weapons, and advanced counter-drone solutions.

The integration of GaN-based SSPA technology is particularly significant. Gallium Nitride devices offer superior efficiency compared to traditional silicon-based systems, enabling higher output power with reduced thermal stress. This makes them ideal for compact, scalable platforms such as SHIELD, which must balance high field strengths with operational practicality.

The SHIELD program is expected to contribute to India’s long-term roadmap for directed-energy weapons. By establishing a robust evaluation system, DRDO and its industry partners will be able to accelerate the transition from laboratory research to deployable systems.

This will also support the development of countermeasures, ensuring that India’s defence infrastructure remains resilient against emerging electromagnetic threats.

The issuance of this RFP marks a decisive step in India’s directed-energy journey. It reflects a growing recognition that future conflicts will not only be fought with missiles and guns but also with beams of energy capable of disabling adversary systems silently and efficiently.

SHIELD is poised to become a cornerstone in this evolving landscape.

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Govt Sets Annual Defence Production Target At ₹3 Lakh Crores

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth has announced that the Government has set an ambitious target of ₹3,00,000 crore in annual defence production and ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029. 

He made this statement while addressing the second Annual Trident Lecture of the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) in New Delhi.

He highlighted that India’s defence production has already reached approximately ₹1,78,000 crore, marking a significant rise in indigenous capabilities. This achievement reflects the country’s steady progress towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing, a cornerstone of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.

The minister emphasised that India’s defence strength is undergoing a major transformation, with increasing reliance on indigenous systems and production capabilities. He cited Operation Sindoor as a landmark example, noting that it was the first time since 1947 that India carried out such a response entirely using indigenous systems. The operation demonstrated the credibility and effectiveness of homegrown platforms in real-world scenarios.

He also drew attention to India’s economic resilience, pointing out that the country recorded a GDP growth of 7.8 per cent despite global challenges. These included conflicts in West Asia and between Russia and Ukraine, volatility in crude oil prices, and climate-related concerns. The ability to sustain strong growth amid such pressures underscores India’s economic stability and its capacity to support large-scale defence modernisation.

The Annual Trident Lecture was organised on the theme National Resurgence through the Lens of Defence Forces. The event brought together senior leadership and eminent experts for deliberations on critical issues such as jointness and integration, multi-domain operations, civil-military fusion, and the role of the Armed Forces in nation building.

The discussions underscored the importance of synergy between the defence establishment and national development, with emphasis on how indigenous defence production strengthens sovereignty, enhances operational readiness, and contributes to India’s global standing.

India’s defence trajectory is now firmly aligned with the goal of achieving ₹3,00,000 crore in annual production and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029.

With proven operational success, rising production figures, and clear policy direction, the country is positioning itself as a global hub for defence innovation and manufacturing.

PIB

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T-Hub Partners Indian Army To Deploy Defence Start-Ups From Lab To Field

T-Hub has entered into a partnership with the Central Command of the Indian Army to establish a direct pathway for defence start-ups to move from laboratory innovation to field deployment.

This collaboration is designed to enable start-ups to develop, validate and deploy solutions that address active military challenges, thereby strengthening India’s defence modernisation efforts.

Under this arrangement, the Army’s Central Command will share active problem statements with T-Hub. The organisation will then identify and select start-ups capable of addressing these challenges. 

This process ensures that founders are guided towards developing technologies that meet operational requirements and can be adapted for real-world military use.

A joint oversight committee has been constituted to supervise the program. This committee will coordinate engagements between the start-ups and Army stakeholders, ensuring that the solutions developed are aligned with the Army’s needs and deployment standards.

T-Hub will provide comprehensive support to start-ups in transitioning from problem statements to deployable solutions. This includes assistance with product development, validation and market readiness.

The organisation will also work closely with Army stakeholders to incorporate operational feedback, ensuring that the technologies are refined to meet deployment requirements effectively.

This partnership builds upon T-Hub’s existing association with the Western Command of the Indian Army. With standing relationships at the Command level, T-Hub has become one of the few organisations in the country to maintain such direct ties, enhancing its credibility and influence in the defence innovation ecosystem.

T-Hub is also among the 28 organisations selected to implement the Ministry of Defence-led Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) scheme. It is recognised as the country’s largest iDEX incubator, reflecting its pivotal role in nurturing defence innovation.

Through this initiative, T-Hub has already engaged with 100 defence start-ups and hosted 70 challenges under the iDEX program, demonstrating its capacity to drive large-scale innovation and collaboration.

This new partnership with the Central Command is expected to accelerate the deployment of indigenous defence technologies, strengthen civil–military collaboration, and provide start-ups with a structured pathway to contribute directly to India’s defence preparedness.

It represents a significant step in integrating entrepreneurial innovation with operational military requirements, ensuring that India’s armed forces benefit from cutting-edge solutions developed within the country.

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India’s Foreign Defence Procurement Falls To 12% As Indigenisation Drive Accelerates

India’s foreign procurement in capital defence purchases has fallen sharply from nearly half of total spending in FY19 to just 12% in FY25, marking a decisive shift toward domestic manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat program.

This transformation is driven by successive Positive Indigenisation Lists, ring‑fenced budget allocations, and record defence exports, though challenges remain in defining true indigenisation and managing high‑value imports.

India’s foreign procurement in capital defence purchases has dropped dramatically from about 49 per cent in FY19 to roughly 12 per cent in FY25. This decline reflects aggressive indigenisation policies, progressive import embargoes on military hardware, and a major push toward domestic manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat program. The shift is not only numerical but strategic, signalling India’s determination to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and build sovereign capabilities.

The Positive Indigenisation Lists have been central to this transformation. Over successive phases, the government has banned the import of hundreds of military items, sub‑systems, and platforms, compelling local production.

The sixth list alone, notified in August 2026, covers 405 strategically important items across air, land, naval, and electronics domains, with an estimated business potential of ₹3,070 crore.

These include line‑replaceable units, sub‑assemblies, spares, and raw materials for platforms such as the Su‑30MKI, TEJAS, T‑72 and T‑90 tanks, BMP‑II, and warships. Once indigenised, these items must be procured from Indian industry, creating opportunities for defence public sector undertakings, private firms, MSMEs, and start‑ups.

Budgetary allocation has reinforced this policy. A substantial share of the domestic modernisation budget is now formally ring‑fenced for procurement from local public and private sector companies. In FY25‑26, capital contracts worth ₹1.82 lakh crore were signed, with nearly 80 per cent of expenditure under the capital acquisition budget directed toward indigenisation. This ensures predictable demand for Indian firms and encourages investment in capacity expansion and innovation.

India’s rise in defence exports has been equally striking. As local manufacturing capacity scales up, exports have surged multi‑fold to record highs, moving India from a pure buyer model to a supplier of hardware and sub‑systems globally.

Defence exports are now valued at over ₹38,000 crore annually, with Indian systems reaching more than 80 countries. This includes missiles, radars, electronic warfare equipment, and naval platforms, positioning India as a credible player in the global defence market.

Yet nuances and challenges remain. Critics argue that the definition of indigenous production is sometimes stretched. Early‑stage domestic manufacturing often relies heavily on imported kits, sub‑assemblies, or licensed assembly, a practice colloquially termed “screwdrivergiri.” True indigenisation requires deeper component‑level research and development, which is still evolving. 

Moreover, landmark big‑ticket foreign acquisitions, such as advanced fighter jets or submarines, continue to capture public attention and media debate, even as aggregate capital spending shifts down in percentage terms.

The Defence Procurement Manual 2025 has further streamlined procedures, simplified licensing, and relaxed penalties for indigenisation delays, encouraging private sector participation. The SRIJAN Defence Portal has facilitated the offer of more than 33,000 items for indigenisation, with over 15,700 successfully developed, resulting in import substitution worth ₹9,000 crore. Defence stocks have rallied in response, with companies like HAL, GRSE, Paras Defence, and Zen Technologies gaining investor confidence.

India’s trajectory is clear. By combining policy reforms, budgetary support, and industrial participation, the country is steadily reducing foreign procurement while expanding domestic manufacturing and exports.

The challenge ahead lies in deepening technological self‑reliance, ensuring that indigenisation moves beyond assembly to genuine innovation, and balancing the need for selective foreign acquisitions with the broader goal of strategic autonomy.

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India Notifies Sixth Positive Indigenisation List Covering 405 Defence Items Worth ₹3,070 Crore

India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence initiative has gained further momentum with the Ministry of Defence formally notifying the sixth Positive Indigenisation List.

This latest list incorporates 405 strategically significant defence items, representing an estimated business potential of approximately ₹3,070 crore. The notification marks another decisive step in reducing reliance on imports and strengthening the domestic defence industrial base.

The newly announced list encompasses critical equipment and components linked to major platforms such as the Light Combat Aircraft TEJAS, the Su‑30MKI fighter aircraft, the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), the T‑72 and T‑90 tank series, the BMP‑II infantry combat vehicle, the Medium Range Surface‑to‑Air Missile system, as well as warships, missiles, radars and sonars. These inclusions highlight the government’s determination to ensure that frontline combat systems are increasingly sustained by indigenous supply chains.

Out of the 405 items, 389 are associated with Defence Public Sector Undertakings, while 16 are linked to the Indian Coast Guard. This distribution underscores the central role of DPSUs in driving indigenisation, while also extending opportunities to enhance the operational self‑reliance of the Coast Guard.

The initiative is designed to open new avenues for Indian defence companies, micro, small and medium enterprises, and start-ups, thereby broadening the industrial ecosystem and encouraging innovation.

Since the launch of the SRIJAN Portal in 2020, more than 33,000 defence items have been offered for indigenisation. Of these, over 15,700 items have already been successfully indigenised, demonstrating steady progress in building domestic capacity.

The government estimates that this effort has resulted in import substitution worth around ₹9,000 crore. In parallel, DPSUs have placed procurement orders with domestic suppliers valued at approximately ₹10,000 crore, reinforcing the economic impact of the indigenisation drive.

The sixth Positive Indigenisation List is not merely a catalogue of items but a strategic roadmap to deepen self‑reliance. By targeting components and systems integral to frontline platforms, the initiative ensures that India’s defence preparedness is not vulnerable to external supply chain disruptions.

The estimated ₹3,070 crore business potential reflects the scale of opportunity for domestic industry, while the cumulative impact of successive lists is gradually reshaping India’s defence production landscape.

This development aligns with the broader vision of achieving design sovereignty and technological independence. The government’s phased approach, supported by policy instruments such as the Defence Acquisition Procedure and the Positive Indigenisation Lists, is steadily creating a robust ecosystem where indigenous design, development and manufacturing can thrive.

The sixth list is therefore both a continuation of past progress and a foundation for future expansion, ensuring that India’s defence industry grows in scale, sophistication and resilience.

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India’s Defence Transformation Powers Self‑Reliance And Global Credibility

India’s defence sector has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, emerging as a stronger, more self‑reliant and globally credible force, announced PIB.

Guided by Atmanirbhar Bharat, sustained reforms, investment and indigenous innovation have strengthened defence capabilities.

The domestic defence industrial base has expanded significantly. As India marks its 80th Independence Day, this transformation reflects growing confidence in India’s ability to safeguard sovereignty and contribute to global security.

The defence budget has seen a 3.1‑fold growth, rising from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013–14 to ₹7.85 lakh crore in 2026–27. Capital expenditure has increased 2.3‑fold, from ₹94,587.95 crore in 2014–15 to ₹2.19 lakh crore in 2026–27, enabling sustained modernisation of the armed forces.

This investment has driven indigenous defence production, which reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in 2025–26, with 76 per cent of production from public‑sector entities and 24 per cent from the private sector.

Exports have expanded dramatically, rising 56‑fold from ₹686 crore in FY2013–14 to ₹38,424 crore in FY2025–26. India now exports defence systems to more than 80 countries, marking a growth of over 5,500 per cent in twelve years.

The private sector contributed ₹17,353 crore or 45.16 per cent of exports, while Defence Public Sector Undertakings contributed ₹21,071 crore or 54.84 per cent. The government has set ambitious targets of ₹3 lakh crore in annual defence production and ₹50,000 crore in exports by 2029.

Defence research and development has also strengthened the technological foundation. Allocation rose from ₹13,716.14 crore in 2014–15 to ₹29,100.25 crore in 2026–27, an increase of over 112 per cent. Since 2022–23, 25 per cent of the R&D budget has been opened to industry, start‑ups and academia. 

Testing facilities across 24 DRDO laboratories are now accessible through the Defence Testing Portal, a digital platform that allows domestic manufacturers and innovators to request paid access to specialised infrastructure.

Key initiatives are expanding India’s defence industrial capacity through indigenous manufacturing, modern infrastructure and greater private‑sector participation. The Defence Acquisition Council has accorded Acceptance of Necessity for over ₹6 lakh crore of DRDO‑designed, Indian industry‑manufactured systems.

Major acquisitions include 97 TEJAS MK‑1A fighter jets worth ₹62,000 crore and 156 LCH Prachand helicopters worth ₹62,700 crore, strengthening aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities. The Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, Defence Procurement Procedure 2016 and Defence Procurement Manual 2025 have streamlined procurement, accelerated approvals and prioritised indigenous projects. 

The Draft Defence Acquisition Procedure 2026 proposes simpler categories and indigenous content requirements of up to 60 per cent.

Innovation has been boosted through schemes such as iDEX, ADITI and the Technology Development Fund. iDEX, with a ₹498.78 crore outlay, has engaged 676 start‑ups, MSMEs and innovators, resulting in 551 design and development contracts by March 2026.

The ADITI scheme, approved with a ₹750 crore outlay, provides financial support to accelerate innovative defence technologies. The Technology Development Fund offers grants of up to ₹50 crore, with 80 projects worth ₹334 crore under implementation and an additional ₹500 crore corpus sanctioned for deep technology.

Technology transfer and industry participation have expanded. DRDO’s Development cum Production Partner framework has transferred technologies to 134 companies. Over 2,180 technology transfer agreements have been signed, and more than 2,780 intellectual property rights have been opened for industry use as of March 2026.

Indigenisation has been strengthened through ten Positive Indigenisation Lists covering 5,521 items, and platforms such as the Srijan Defence Equipment Empowerment Program have listed over 41,000 vendors and 2.7 lakh products.

Defence industrial corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have attracted investments of ₹42,057 crore and ₹32,699 crore respectively, with significant grounding realised. The BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility in Lucknow has begun missile manufacturing.

Ease of doing business reforms have extended industrial licence validity to 18 years, with lifetime validity now granted under the Arms Act. The revamped Defence Exim Portal enables end‑to‑end application processing, automated verification, real‑time tracking and secure payment integration. 

Foreign direct investment limits have been raised to 74 per cent under the Automatic Route and up to 100 per cent via the Government Route, attracting inflows of ₹6,670.59 crore by March 2026.

Operational self‑reliance has been strengthened. The Indian Army has achieved roughly 91 per cent self‑sufficiency by indigenising 159 of 175 ammunition variants. India has successfully tested the Agni‑4 and ICBM Agni‑5 ballistic missiles, validating operational parameters.

Indigenous precision‑strike capabilities have been demonstrated through the TARA Glide Weapon and RudraM‑II missile. DRDO has advanced systems such as the Kusha Long Range Air Defence Missile and Very Short‑Range Air Defence System, and tested integrated air‑defence systems combining interceptors, short‑range weapons and laser technologies. A 12‑minute ground test of an actively cooled scramjet combustor has supported hypersonic missile development.

Maritime defence has advanced with the commissioning of 12 warships and submarines, including INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer. INS Mahendragiri, a stealth frigate with over 75 per cent indigenous content, has entered service.

SHACHI, the first of 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels, has been launched, while INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray have completed the indigenous Sandhayak‑class survey fleet. 

DRDO has successfully tested the Naval Anti‑Ship Missile–Medium Range and demonstrated multi‑layered Ballistic Missile Defence capability, strengthening India’s ability to counter aerial and maritime threats.

India’s defence transformation has built greater depth across military preparedness, manufacturing and internal security. It reflects a clear shift towards self‑reliance, technological capability and global confidence.

Stronger indigenous production, research and innovation are enhancing defence capacity across land, air and maritime domains. Growing exports and strategic partnerships are reinforcing India’s role as a reliable global defence partner.

With continued investment in advanced technologies and domestic manufacturing, India is building the capabilities needed to meet future security requirements and strengthen its position as a technologically advanced defence power by 2047.

PIB

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Big Bang Boom Solutions Delivers AgniQuell Fire Fighting Foam To Indian Navy

Big Bang Boom Solutions has achieved a significant milestone in indigenous defence innovation with the successful development and delivery of its AgniQuell High Expanding Fire Fighting Foam to the Indian Navy’s Material Organisation.

The delivery follows a rigorous development process under the iDex Challenge, floated by the Indian Navy in collaboration with the Defence Innovation Organization, to provide a fully indigenous solution to a critical operational requirement.

AgniQuell has been engineered specifically for high‑risk defence and industrial applications where conventional firefighting methods are inadequate. Developed entirely through indigenous research and development, the foam features an industry‑leading expansion capability of up to 1:1000.

This allows a compact volume of concentrate to transform into a massive oxygen‑starving blanket of fire‑suppression foam within seconds, effectively neutralising complex fires in enclosed and open environments.

Dr. Shivaraman R, Co‑founder and CTO of Big Bang Boom Solutions, stated that securing and executing this order validates the maturity and reliability of indigenous engineering.

He emphasised that AgniQuell was built from the ground up to protect critical infrastructure while reducing dependency on foreign technology.

He further noted that this success marks the first achievement of the company’s Material Science team and reinforces its commitment to national self‑reliance, operational safety, and long‑term value creation.

The foam’s performance pillars highlight its operational strengths. It provides instantaneous oxygen deprivation to halt thermal runaway in liquid and structural fires. Its volume‑optimised coverage floods enclosed spaces, machinery rooms, and storage facilities with minimal concentrate.

It is universally compatible with standard and specialised foaming equipment, ensuring seamless integration without retrofit delays. It maintains structural integrity across both enclosed facilities and outdoor environments, and it drastically reduces water consumption, thereby mitigating secondary damage to sensitive electronic and military hardware.

This delivery represents more than a contract fulfilled. It is a testament to Big Bang Boom Solutions’ commitment to high‑quality R&D and product development.

AgniQuell is the second product successfully developed, qualified, contracted, and delivered under the iDex program, positioning the company as a flag bearer of this prestigious initiative.

The achievement establishes a validated pathway into wider naval and defence fire‑safety programs, with active discussions underway for follow‑on orders and pilot deployments across additional installations and platforms.

AgniQuell’s design, combining high expansion ratio, low water and concentrate consumption, and equipment‑agnostic deployment, also makes it suitable for industrial sectors such as oil and gas, power generation, aviation, and heavy manufacturing.

These industries face recurring capital expenditure on fire‑suppression infrastructure, and AgniQuell offers a cost‑effective, high‑performance alternative.

This success adds to Big Bang Boom Solutions’ growing portfolio of indigenous defence technologies, which includes fire suppression systems, simulators, anti‑drone solutions, and specialised autonomous defence platforms. The company has firmly established itself as a multi‑domain deep‑tech player in India’s expanding defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Chennai, Big Bang Boom Solutions has already secured over eight iDex wins and more than thirty defence contracts worth hundreds of crores across all three services. Its focus on indigenous defence innovation continues to strengthen India’s strategic autonomy and industrial base.

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MoD Confirms Full 18% GST Reimbursement On Defence R&D Grants For Start-Ups And MSMEs

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that start-ups, MSMEs and other private entities engaged in defence innovation will now receive full reimbursement of the 18 per cent GST levied on R&D grants under iDEX and the Technology Development Fund schemes, regardless of Input Tax Credit (ITC) claimed. 

This measure removes a long-standing anomaly, easing cash flow pressures and levelling the playing field with government research bodies.

The Ministry of Defence issued an office memorandum on 27 July 2026, clarifying that the reimbursement covers the entire GST amount charged on grants, not reduced by any ITC claimed.

This decision was taken in consultation with the Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, and is intended to provide immediate relief to private innovators in the defence sector.

The issue dates back to March 2025, when BusinessLine highlighted the disparity of taxing private firms at 18 per cent GST on R&D grants while exempting government entities. Following this, the MoD reached out to MSMEs that had received notices from GST Commissionerates and, by July 2025, announced reimbursement of GST paid on grants under iDEX and TDF.

However, ambiguity remained over whether reimbursement should be net of ITC. The latest clarification settles this matter by confirming full reimbursement.

The Ministry’s memorandum states that reimbursement arrangements will be governed by contractual terms between parties. It also notes that the measure is interim, pending GST Council deliberations on possible tax waivers for private players.

Refunds of GST paid will continue to be governed by provisions of section 31(3)(e), section 34, and section 54(8) of the GST Act 2017, covering payment vouchers, credit and debit notes, and refund mechanisms.

The iDEX and TDF programs have grown significantly in scale. The Defence Acquisition Council has granted Acceptance of Necessity for over 30 iDEX products, with procurement contracts exceeding ₹1,000 crore.

Meanwhile, more than 79 sanctioned projects worth ₹334.02 crore have been approved under TDF, managed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. These initiatives are central to India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The reimbursement policy is expected to ease cash flow constraints for start-ups and MSMEs, allowing them to allocate more capital towards product development and testing.

Defence innovation often involves long gestation periods, and the removal of tax burdens ensures that grant money is not depleted prematurely. This strengthens the ecosystem by encouraging greater participation from smaller firms and levelling the field with government-affiliated institutions.

Industry observers note that while the reimbursement is a positive step, its effectiveness will depend on the speed and efficiency of disbursement. Companies will need to provide adequate documentation to claim refunds, and administrative bottlenecks could delay access to funds.

The GST Council’s final decision on permanent exemptions will determine whether this interim measure evolves into long-term tax certainty for private defence innovators.

The move also aligns with India’s broader defence modernisation agenda, which emphasises indigenisation, innovation, and operational readiness.

By addressing the tax anomaly, the government has signalled its commitment to supporting private sector participation in defence R&D, thereby strengthening the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

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Parliamentary Panel Urges Fast-Track Funding For Hypersonic Missiles And Sixth-Generation Fighters

India’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence has urged the government to fast-track funding for next-generation military technologies, including hypersonic glide missiles and sixth-generation fighter aircraft, stressing the need for dedicated resources, testing infrastructure, and clear timelines to avoid delays.

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that work on hypersonic systems and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is progressing, while India is also exploring participation in international sixth-generation fighter programs spearheaded by France and other European partners.

The Parliamentary Committee has emphasised that India must accelerate investment in emerging defence technologies to match rapid global advances. It has recommended a dedicated budget head for “critical and latest technologies” to ensure that projects such as hypersonic missiles, glide weapons, and advanced combat aircraft are prioritised without funding bottlenecks.

The Committee noted that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is already working on next-generation systems.

The AMCA is being designed as a fifth-generation stealth combat aircraft with advanced battlefield capabilities, while plans are underway for sixth-generation fighters that will be network-centric and integrated with other platforms and ground-based systems.

A major focus area is the development of supersonic and hypersonic glide missile systems. These weapons combine extreme speed with manoeuvrability, making them exceptionally difficult to detect and intercept.

The Committee has recommended adequate funding, time-bound milestones, and testing facilities to support indigenous glide missile development, which it considers vital for future warfare dominated by networked systems.

The Ministry of Defence has informed the panel that hypersonic weapons travel at speeds of Mach 5 or more, at low altitudes, and are highly manoeuvrable. Such systems can reduce adversary decision-making time, strike from unexpected directions, and use high kinetic energy to penetrate hardened targets. India’s hypersonic program is progressing, with DRDO conducting scramjet propulsion tests and preparing glide missile trials.

The Committee also highlighted the importance of aligning India’s efforts with global sixth-generation fighter development. Two major consortia are currently working on sixth-generation aircraft: one involving the UK, Italy, and Japan, and another led by France and Germany.

India has initiated efforts to join the French-led Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, with the Air Force expected to collaborate with one of these consortia to avoid lagging behind in advanced aircraft acquisition.

The Committee has asked the Ministry to furnish a detailed roadmap for sixth-generation fighter development and acquisition, alongside updates on AMCA progress. It stressed that technical upgrades of aircraft are a top priority to enhance combat capability in today’s highly air-centric warfare environment.

By pushing for a dedicated allocation for critical technologies, the Committee aims to ensure timely implementation of strategic defence projects. It believes that indigenous development in hypersonic and advanced aircraft systems will strengthen India’s preparedness and support future platforms, including unmanned systems.

India’s pursuit of hypersonic glide missiles, sixth-generation fighters, and advanced stealth aircraft reflects its determination to achieve technological self-reliance and maintain parity with global military powers.

The Committee’s recommendations underscore the urgency of fast-tracking these projects to secure India’s long-term strategic advantage.

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India’s Defence Revolution: Indigenous Engine, Expanding Navy, And Hypersonic Missile Power

India is undergoing a defence transformation with three pillars: the revival of the indigenous Kaveri 2.0 fighter jet engine, the Indian Navy’s ambitious expansion to a 200-warship fleet by 2035, and the successful testing of the 1,500 km-range Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM). 

Together, these initiatives mark a decisive step in India’s quest for self-reliance and strategic dominance in the Indo-Pacific.

India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment in Bangalore has revived the Kaveri 2.0 engine after decades of setbacks. The upgraded design has achieved thrust levels of 81–83 kilonewtons with full afterburner capability, a milestone witnessed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Engineers have reduced the engine’s weight from 1,235 kg to about 1,100 kg, with further optimisation targeting below 1,000 kg. Advanced materials such as single-crystal blades and polymer composites, along with digital twin modelling, have accelerated development.

The engine is expected to power future TEJAS MK-1A upgrades, unmanned combat aircraft, and eventually the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This revival aims to end India’s dependence on imported GE F404/F414 engines, which have faced delivery delays.

The Indian Navy is simultaneously pursuing an ambitious plan to expand its fleet to over 200 warships by 2035.

Currently operating around 150 vessels, the Navy has nearly 50 more under construction. Recent inductions include INS Mahendragiri, a Nilgiri-class stealth frigate under Project 17A, and INS Malvan, an anti-submarine warfare craft. Project 75(I) will add six advanced submarines with air-independent propulsion, while Project-17B promises next-generation frigates.

Indigenous aircraft carriers such as INS Vikrant and planned nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) will further strengthen India’s maritime posture. A $8.4 billion maritime revival package aims to position India among the world’s top five shipbuilding nations by 2047. This expansion is driven by the need to counter China’s 370-ship navy and Pakistan’s Hangor-class submarines, ensuring India’s dominance in the Indian Ocean Region.

The third pillar is the LR-AShM hypersonic missile, successfully tested off Odisha in May 2026. Developed by DRDO’s Advanced Systems Laboratory, the missile struck a target 1,500 km away with precision. It uses a two-stage solid rocket booster and a hypersonic glide vehicle capable of speeds up to Mach 10.

Its quasi-ballistic trajectory and atmospheric skipping manoeuvres make it nearly undetectable by conventional radar. Equipped with indigenous active radar homing seekers, the missile can engage both stationary and moving targets, including aircraft carriers.

This weapon fills a critical gap between the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and strategic ballistic systems, offering the Navy a potent non-nuclear strike option. Limited production has already begun, with induction expected before 2030.

Together, Kaveri 2.0, the 200-warship expansion, and the LR-AShM hypersonic missile represent India’s integrated strategy for defence modernisation. They enhance self-reliance, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and strengthen deterrence across air and sea domains. India’s maritime strategy now emphasises securing sea lanes, protecting trade routes, and projecting power deep into the Indo-Pacific, aligning with its broader geopolitical ambitions.

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Manastu Space Qualifies Sharanga Green Micro‑Propulsion System For CubeSats Up To 50 Kg

Sharanga, an indigenous green micro‑propulsion system developed by Mumbai‑based Manastu Space, has been purpose‑built for CubeSats and small satellites weighing up to 50 kilograms, offering sustainable manoeuvring capabilities in low‑Earth orbit.

This innovation represents a major step forward in India’s private space sector, combining advanced engineering with environmentally responsible propellant technology.

The propulsion system delivers ultra‑fine throttleable thrust in the range of 1 to 10 milli‑Newtons. This precision output allows satellites to perform delicate orbital manoeuvres such as station‑keeping, attitude correction, and controlled de‑orbiting.

Despite its compact size, Sharanga provides a total impulse of 500 Newton‑seconds, ensuring sufficient energy for extended mission lifetimes while maintaining a lightweight and low‑power architecture.

At the heart of Sharanga lies Manastu Space’s proprietary MS‑289 blend, a high‑test peroxide‑based green propellant. Unlike conventional toxic fuels such as hydrazine, MS‑289 is non‑toxic and non‑carcinogenic, decomposing into harmless by‑products.

This makes the system safer to handle, reduces environmental risks, and aligns with the global push towards sustainable space programs. The adoption of this propellant also lowers regulatory hurdles, enabling faster deployment for satellite operators.

Sharanga has been designed for compatibility with CubeSat platforms ranging from 3U to 10U+ configurations. Its modular design ensures ease of integration into diverse spacecraft architectures, providing flexibility for missions across Earth observation, communications, and scientific research. By addressing the propulsion needs of satellites up to 50 kilograms, the system fills a critical gap in the small satellite ecosystem.

The propulsion unit has been developed under the iDEX Defence Innovation Organisation’s SPARK grant, which supports indigenous innovation in strategic technologies. Sharanga has successfully undergone vibration and thermo‑vacuum testing at the IN‑SPACe facility in Ahmedabad.

These rigorous trials validated its ability to withstand the harsh vacuum and extreme thermal conditions of space, proving its reliability for real‑world orbital operations.

With these achievements, Sharanga has reached a Technology Readiness Level of 7, signifying system prototype demonstration in a space environment. This milestone indicates that the propulsion system is mature enough for deployment in upcoming missions, offering satellite operators a proven solution for sustainable orbital manoeuvring.

The system’s mission applications are wide‑ranging. It can support orbit raising for satellites launched into lower orbits, provide precise attitude correction for payload alignment, enable collision avoidance manoeuvres to mitigate space debris risks, and facilitate controlled de‑orbiting at the end of mission life. These capabilities are increasingly vital in today’s congested orbital environment, where safety and sustainability are paramount.

Sharanga’s success also highlights the growing role of private companies in India’s space sector. By leveraging government support through iDEX and testing facilities at IN‑SPACe, Manastu Space has demonstrated how start-ups can deliver world‑class technologies that complement ISRO’s programs. 

This achievement strengthens India’s position in the global space economy and underscores its commitment to fostering innovation in satellite mobility.

As the demand for small satellites continues to rise worldwide, Sharanga offers a future‑ready propulsion solution that combines precision, safety, and sustainability. Its indigenous design and green propellant technology make it a landmark development in India’s journey towards self‑reliance in advanced space systems.

Agencies

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IdeaForge Secures ₹151 Crore Government Funding For Yeti High-Altitude Military Logistics Drone

ideaForge Technology Limited has secured ₹151 crore in government financing to advance the development of its heavy-lift drone ‘Yeti’, a platform designed for military logistics in high-altitude Himalayan regions, The Tribune reported.

The funding comes under the Government of India’s Research, Development, and Innovation Fund, which is part of the ₹1 lakh crore RDI program aimed at catalysing deeptech innovation across strategic sectors such as AI, robotics, space, and advanced manufacturing.

The drone is engineered to operate autonomously in extreme terrains and weather conditions, including Himalayan posts at altitudes between 4,000 and 6,000 metres, deserts, forests, and offshore zones. 

Logistics in these areas are often disrupted by terrain and climate, leading to delays in supply chains. Yeti is intended to bridge this gap and contribute to the national goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat by providing sovereign capability in aerial logistics.

ideaForge confirmed it has received a Letter of Intent for ₹151 crore in long-term debt financing at a nominal interest rate under the RDI scheme. This capital will be channelled directly into the development of Yeti, which represents a generational leap in India’s ability to design, build, and operate autonomous aerial systems.

The inaugural ‘Enterprise Technology Evaluation’ agreement signing ceremony marked the first disbursement under the RDI program, positioning ideaForge among the earliest beneficiaries of this framework.

Yeti is a vertical take-off and landing platform capable of lifting payloads up to 200 kg and covering ranges of up to 200 km. It can operate day and night from small, semi-prepared launch pads, making it suitable for frontline deployment.

Its mission sets include autonomous aerial delivery of ammunition, equipment, and supplies to forward posts, as well as support for infrastructure construction, industrial logistics, express aerial delivery, offshore resupply, and emergency response missions in inaccessible regions.

The drone is designed to function reliably in extreme environments, with resilience against high-altitude conditions, desert heat, and marine humidity. Its autonomous systems allow it to reduce operator workload and ensure survivability in contested zones.

The platform is expected to significantly reduce reliance on vulnerable road convoys and manned aircraft, offering a safer and more flexible logistics backbone for the armed forces.

Speaking on the development, Ankit Mehta, CEO and co-founder of ideaForge Technology Ltd., emphasised that Yeti represents a generational leap in India’s autonomous design and operational capability.

He noted that the armed forces and logistics networks face the daily challenge of reaching areas where roads end and weather conditions obstruct conventional supply routes. Yeti is intended to provide a transformative solution to these challenges.

The government’s confidence in ideaForge reflects its broader strategy to strengthen indigenous defence technology and ensure self-reliance in critical sectors.

By supporting Yeti’s development, the RDI program is not only enabling military logistics innovation but also reinforcing India’s position as a leader in deeptech and aerospace engineering.

Agencies

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DRDO’s 2,000+ ToTs Generate ₹7 Lakh Crores In Defence Production

DRDO has signed over 2,000 Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreements with nearly 150 companies, generating an estimated ₹7 lakh crores ($73 billion) in defence production.

This milestone underscores India’s rapid progress in indigenous defence manufacturing and its growing stature as a global exporter.

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation has steadily expanded its role as the backbone of indigenous defence innovation. By transferring technologies to private industry, DRDO has enabled firms to manufacture advanced systems ranging from missile subsystems and sonar equipment to aerospace components and battlefield electronics.

These collaborations have created a robust ecosystem where industry, academia, and start-ups collectively drive innovation.

The cumulative impact of these ToTs is immense. With over ₹7 lakh crores worth of defence production generated, India has significantly reduced its reliance on imports. This figure also reflects the growing confidence of the armed forces in indigenous systems, as well as the increasing acceptance of Indian defence products in global markets.

Defence exports, which crossed ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025–26, are expected to rise further as production scales up and competitiveness improves.

The government’s decision to scrap the 20% ToT fee earlier this year has accelerated this momentum. By removing financial barriers, industries now have zero-cost access to DRDO’s intellectual property, making it easier for start-ups and established firms alike to integrate cutting-edge technologies.

This reform has been described as a “tax on innovation” being dismantled, ensuring faster adoption of new systems.

DRDO has already transferred more than 2,200 technologies, and its patents have been opened up for free access by Indian industries. Testing facilities remain available on a payment basis, supporting hundreds of firms annually in research and development.

This policy shift has coincided with record defence production figures, which touched ₹1.54 lakh crore in FY 2025–26, with a quarter of the defence R&D budget allocated to industry, academia, and start-ups.

Recent transfers have included critical technologies for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program, such as thermal management systems handed over to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited.

These systems are vital for next-generation fighters equipped with advanced radars, electronic warfare suites, and stealth materials. Such collaborations highlight how ToTs are not limited to incremental improvements but are shaping India’s future combat platforms.

The evolving nature of warfare has also influenced DRDO’s priorities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has repeatedly emphasised the importance of frontier technologies such as directed energy weapons, hypersonics, quantum systems, artificial intelligence, and underwater domain awareness.

Lessons from conflicts like Russia-Ukraine, where drones and sensors transformed battlefields, have reinforced the urgency of staying ahead in technological innovation.

India’s defence industry is now positioned at a critical juncture. With sustained government support, industry participation, and DRDO’s expanding portfolio of ToTs, the country is not only meeting domestic requirements but also carving out a strong presence in international markets.

This trajectory aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, ensuring India’s defence sector remains future-ready in an era of rapid technological change.

Agencies

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IAF Stresses Collaboration And Indigenous Innovation To Strengthen India’s Aerospace Capability

The Indian Air Force has underscored that India’s aerospace future depends on collective collaboration, indigenous innovation, and integration of advanced technologies, with self-reliance now seen as a national security imperative rather than just a developmental goal.

Air Marshal Sanjiv Ghuratia, Officer-in-Charge (Maintenance), Indian Air Force, addressed a workshop jointly organised by the IAF and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers in New Delhi.

He stressed that no single organisation can achieve aerospace self-reliance independently. Instead, it requires collective efforts, trust, knowledge sharing, and a shared national vision.

He expressed gratitude to the Minister of State for Defence for supporting initiatives that strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing. These efforts, he said, are translating the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat into operational capabilities for the armed forces.

Speaking on the seminar’s theme, Sankalp, Air Marshal Ghuratia explained that the word represents determination and collective commitment towards self-reliance, indigenous development, and knowledge-based partnerships. He emphasised that indigenous innovation cannot succeed without strong partnerships between industry, academia, research institutions, certification agencies, and the armed forces.

He highlighted the changing nature of warfare, noting that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance, quantum technologies, and cyber resilience are already shaping modern military capabilities.

He warned that dependence on external supply chains for critical defence technologies poses strategic risks, making aerospace self-reliance a national security requirement.

Drawing from the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, he said excellence in duty remains a guiding principle. For the Indian Air Force, excellence is reflected in operational readiness, engineering accuracy, and continuous innovation.

Air Marshal Ghuratia acknowledged the significant progress made by India’s defence manufacturing sector over the past decade.

However, he cautioned that challenges remain in achieving complete technological independence. He explained that strategic capability cannot always be measured by commercial parameters, as certain technologies must be developed purely for national security rather than market demand.

He pointed out that global aerospace advancements demonstrate how major breakthroughs occur when governments, defence forces, industry, and research institutions work together with a common strategic objective.

India, he said, already possesses all the necessary components for building a strong indigenous defence ecosystem. The key challenge now is integrating these capabilities into a unified framework to achieve technological sovereignty.

Recent developments reinforce this vision. The Indian Air Force has advanced with over sixty indigenous defence programs in partnership with DRDO and private industry, including the operational clearance of the Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control system and the launch of the AEW&C-MK-2 program with Adani Defence. These initiatives place India among a select group of nations with advanced airborne surveillance capabilities and highlight the growing role of private industry in defence innovation.

ANI

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Resolve To Make India Developed By 2047 And Build World’s Most Powerful Air Force Through Self-Reliance: Minister Sanjay Seth

Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a self-reliant defence ecosystem, declaring that India’s resolve is to become a developed nation by 2047 and to transform the Indian Air Force into the most powerful air force in the world through indigenous capabilities and innovation.

Speaking at a defence sector gathering in New Delhi, Seth underlined that India has always believed in peace and the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, yet remains fully prepared to respond strongly to any challenge to its sovereignty and security.

He remarked that India’s culture teaches peace and the welfare of humanity, but when threatened by terrorism or hostile intent, the nation knows how to respond with the spirit of Lord Shiva’s Tandav.

He highlighted the importance of Atmanirbhar Bharat in the defence sector, stressing that the country’s resolve is to make the Indian Air Force one of the most powerful globally through indigenous capabilities. He added that this vision is not merely aspirational but a firm determination that will never remain incomplete.

Seth emphasised the critical role of defence industries, startups, academia, and the armed forces in building future military capabilities. He noted that a soldier fighting on the border is never alone, as the story of his victory is shaped in factories and laboratories. The technology developed today, he said, will determine the strength of India’s forces tomorrow.

He urged defence manufacturers and innovators to focus on future warfare requirements and emerging technologies, warning that delays in acquiring critical technology could impact national security. He observed that the world is moving very fast and India cannot afford to be satisfied with past achievements, but must continue advancing.

Praising India’s startup ecosystem, Seth said Indian entrepreneurs are capable of competing with the best in the world. He stressed that the energy and talent of India’s youth will play a decisive role in shaping the future, adding that the country’s startups are no less than any globally.

Drawing attention to the unique spirit of the Indian armed forces, Seth remarked that while the world teaches that one plus one equals two, for the Indian Army one plus one equals eleven. He explained that this reflects the power of teamwork, commitment, and determination.

The Minister also highlighted the need to increase the contribution of the manufacturing sector to India’s GDP, stating that innovation in defence will strengthen both the country’s economic and strategic position.

He pointed to India’s recent achievements in infrastructure, technology, and defence as evidence of remarkable progress, urging that the same momentum must be maintained.

He said India’s youth is carrying the dream of a developed India by 2047 and will play a key role in shaping the nation’s future. He concluded by stating that the innovations created today will be remembered by future generations, and that the country stands united behind its innovators, with 140 crore Indians supporting them.

ANI

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