In a major push to India’s self-reliance in defence, the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) of DRDO, Hyderabad, has successfully transferred three advanced materials technologies to industry partners. At a ceremony on August 30, 2025, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat handed over Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LAToT) to partner firms.

The technologies include:

High-strength Radomes: Transferred to BHEL, Jagdishpur, for manufacturing protective covers for missile sensors, a critical step in strengthening India’s missile programmes.

DMR-1700 Steel Sheets and Plates: Licensed to JSPL, Angul, for defence applications where ultrahigh strength and fracture toughness at room temperature are vital.

DMR 249A HSLA Steel Plates: Handed over to SAIL’s BSP, Bhilai, for naval vessel construction, meeting stringent requirements of the Indian Navy.

Why are these technologies significant for indigenous defence production?

The transfer of these materials marks a breakthrough in India’s indigenous capability to develop and manufacture advanced defence-grade alloys and composites. These technologies not only reduce dependence on imports but also ensure secure supply chains for critical military programmes.

By involving industry partners, DRDO ensures that innovations move from lab-scale research to large-scale deployment in strategic applications.

How does this fit into India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision?

Each of these materials has direct applications in frontline defence systems from missiles to warships. By empowering Indian industries such as BHEL, JSPL, and SAIL with the know-how, the initiative strengthens the ecosystem of public-private partnerships in defence manufacturing. It also positions India to become a global supplier of high-end defence materials in the future.

What role is DMRL playing in India’s defence innovation?

DMRL has emerged as a critical player in India’s defence R&D by focusing on metallurgy and materials science for strategic use. Its multidisciplinary expertise has enabled breakthroughs across aerospace, missile, and naval applications. The lab’s efforts highlight how specialised research institutes are bridging the gap between innovation and industry.

Furthering its collaborative approach, DMRL signed an MoU with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The agreement will allow the AAIB to leverage DMRL’s facilities and expertise in material failure analysis, thereby extending the lab’s impact beyond defence into civil aviation safety.