DRDO Transfers Advanced Materials Technologies to Industry Partners

The Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), part of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has successfully transferred three advanced materials technologies to industry partners. This significant event took place last week in Hyderabad, where Samir V Kamat, Chairman of DRDO and Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development, officially handed over the Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) to the representatives of the involved companies.

The technologies include the manufacturing of high-strength ‘Radomes’, protective covers for critical missile sensors, which have been assigned to BHEL in Jagdishpur. This initiative aims to support the production of high-quality products essential for key defence programmes and promote self-reliance in missile systems.

Another crucial technology transferred is for the manufacturing of DMR-1700 steel sheets and plates, designated for defence applications. This technology was awarded to JSPL in Angul, offering a unique combination of ultra-high strength and high fracture toughness at room temperature.

The third technology focuses on DMR 249A HSLA Steel Plates tailored for naval applications, which have been allocated to BSP, a part of SAIL. These plates meet stringent dimensional, physical, and metallurgical requirements necessary for constructing naval vessels.

During the event, Samir V Kamat praised the efforts that have driven research and development processes, leading to these successful technology transfers. He highlighted DMRL’s commitment to fostering partnerships between industry and research entities, emphasizing the importance of advancing technological innovations that will have a lasting impact.

Strengthening Collaborative Efforts

This transfer of technology represents a significant advancement in indigenous materials technology for strategic applications, further solidifying DRDO’s collaborative ecosystem. In addition to the transfer agreements, a pact was also signed between DMRL and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. This agreement will utilize DMRL’s experience, facilities, and capabilities to support the bureau’s activities.

The event also included the presence of key officials, such as R.V Hara Prasad, Director General of Naval Systems and Materials, Manu Korulla, Director General of Resource and Management, and R. Balamuralikrishnan, Director of DMRL. Their participation underscores the importance of these developments for the future of defence technologies in India.

This technology transfer initiative reflects a concerted effort by DRDO to enhance the capabilities of the domestic defence industry, paving the way for greater innovation and self-sufficiency within the sector.