Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of technology developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for all conventional missile systems to eligible Indian industries. The move is aimed at expanding domestic defence manufacturing and giving Indian companies a greater role in producing advanced military systems.

Under the Transfer of Technology (ToT) initiative, companies that meet the required technical, certification and regulatory conditions will be able to manufacture missile systems developed by DRDO. The decision is expected to strengthen India's defence industrial base and support the government's push for greater self-reliance in defence production.

Greater role for Indian defence companies

The technology transfer is designed to move missile systems from the development stage into wider industrial production. By involving domestic companies, the government aims to increase manufacturing capacity and create more opportunities for private firms, technology partners and micro, small and medium enterprises.

Eligible companies will have to comply with applicable standards and regulatory requirements before taking up production. The initiative could also help build a stronger domestic supply chain for critical defence technologies.

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Push for Aatmanirbharta in defence

The decision is part of India's broader Aatmanirbharta campaign, which seeks to reduce dependence on imported defence equipment and increase indigenous manufacturing.

Greater domestic production of missile systems could allow India to develop a more sustainable defence manufacturing ecosystem. It may also support faster production and maintenance of critical systems while creating opportunities for Indian companies to develop expertise in advanced defence technologies.

Strategic importance for India

India's move comes amid growing attention to missile, surveillance, satellite and communication capabilities across the region. Modern military operations increasingly depend on the integration of precision weapons with intelligence, surveillance, navigation and communication networks.

Recent assessments have also highlighted the expansion of Pakistan's space capabilities and its cooperation with China. Such developments have increased the importance of strengthening India's own technological and defence capabilities.

DRDO-industry partnership

For DRDO, the initiative represents a further effort to connect defence research with industrial manufacturing. Instead of keeping advanced technologies primarily within the development ecosystem, the transfer will allow qualified Indian companies to take part in their production.

The government expects greater industry participation to expand India's defence manufacturing capacity and support innovation across the sector.

The move also provides an opportunity for Indian companies to become more deeply involved in the country's defence supply chain. With appropriate regulatory oversight, the technology transfer could help increase indigenous production of conventional missile systems and strengthen India's long-term defence preparedness.