Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of technologies developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for conventional missile systems to eligible Indian industries, the Defence Ministry said. The move will allow qualified Indian companies to manufacture conventional missile systems based on DRDO-developed technologies within the country.

Firms will have to meet prescribed technical, certification and regulatory requirements before undertaking production. The initiative is aimed at strengthening Aatmanirbharta in defence and expanding the participation of domestic companies in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

DRDO Focuses on Advanced Weapons

The DRDO has also been working on advanced weapon systems, including indigenous hypersonic glide and cruise missile technologies. The transfer of conventional missile technologies is expected to further strengthen domestic production capabilities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier highlighted the expansion of India’s defence manufacturing sector, noting that defence production has increased significantly over the past decade.

Defence Production and Exports Rise

According to Ministry of Defence data, defence production grew by 15.6% in FY 2024-25 and increased by 110% compared with ₹84,643 crore in FY 2020-21. Indigenous production has also nearly quadrupled since FY 2013-14.

India’s defence exports reached a record ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, with Indian defence products being exported to more than 80 countries. The government has set a target of reaching ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.

Private Sector’s Role Expands

Private companies accounted for around 24% of India’s total defence production in FY 2025-26, while Defence Public Sector Undertakings and other public-sector entities contributed approximately 76%.

The latest technology-transfer decision is expected to deepen industry participation and support India’s broader push to reduce dependence on foreign defence suppliers.

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