Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has authorized the transfer of technologies related to all conventional missile systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to Indian industries. This decision, announced by the Defence Ministry on Tuesday, aims to boost indigenous production capabilities in the country.
Earlier reporting noted: Rajnath Singh clears transfer of DRDO missile tech to Indian defence firms amid regional security concerns Defence minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of technology for all conventional missile systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to Indian defence companies for production within the country, the Ministry of Defence said on Tuesday. The initiative marks a significant step towards achieving the vision of Aatmanirbharta in defence and promoting greater involvement of Indian industries in defence manufacturing. India has been steadily advancing its indigenous hypersonic weapons programme, with the DRDO working on hypersonic glide and cruise missile technologies. The Prime Minister’s comments come as India’s domestic defence production and exports have increased considerably, as the government seeks to strengthen indigenous manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The private sector has also emerged as an increasingly important contributor to India’s defence industrial base.
Defence production rose 15.6 per cent in FY 2024-25 and 110 per cent from Rs 84,643 crore in FY 2020-21, according to the Ministry of Defence. Indigenous defence production has increased nearly fourfold from FY 2013-14. Defence exports also reached a record Rs 38,424 crore in FY 2025-26, with India now exporting defence products to more than 80 countries. The government was targeting defence exports of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. Earlier reporting noted: HT first reported in October 2025 that the defence ministry had opened the development and manufacturing of missiles, artillery shells, ammunition and ordnance to private sector.
The Ministry said the Transfer of Technology (ToT) will enable Indian companies to undertake indigenous production of conventional missile systems, subject to applicable qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements. Earlier reporting noted: The transfer of technology will allow eligible Indian industries to undertake production of DRDO-developed conventional missile systems, subject to applicable qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements, the ministry said.
