Akash-NG missile during a DRDO test launch.
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of technologies developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for all conventional missile systems to Indian defence industry for production within the country, the Ministry of Defence said on August 25.
The move is aimed at expanding domestic defence manufacturing, increasing Indian industry participation and reducing India’s dependence on imported military equipment.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the technology transfer will allow eligible Indian industries to undertake indigenous production of conventional missile systems, subject to applicable qualifications, certifications and regulatory requirements.
What the decision means
The approval is aimed at helping transition DRDO-developed missile systems from development to industrial production.
The Defence Ministry said the initiative will strengthen India’s defence industrial base and create opportunities for Indian industries, including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and other technology partners, to participate in the missile supply chain.
It also aims to increase domestic value addition, improve operational capability and reduce import dependence.
The decision does not mean that all missile technologies will immediately be transferred to private companies or that production can begin without approvals. Eligible firms will have to meet the required technical, certification and regulatory conditions before taking up manufacturing.
Which missiles are covered?
The Defence Ministry has not yet released a list of individual missile systems that will be covered under the technology-transfer process.
However, PTI reported that systems such as the Akash air defence missile, Astra air-to-air missile and Nag anti-tank guided missile could potentially be produced by the private sector. The report also noted that the government had not provided a specific list of missiles that could be produced by private companies under the new initiative.
Therefore, individual missile systems should not be treated as officially confirmed under Tuesday’s announcement until the Defence Ministry provides further details.
Push for domestic defence manufacturing
The decision marks another step in the government’s broader effort to increase the role of Indian industry in defence production.
The Ministry of Defence said the technology transfer will promote greater participation of Indian industries in the defence ecosystem and enable them to undertake indigenous production. DRDO will work closely with Indian industry to facilitate the transfer and absorption of advanced defence technologies.
The move comes as India continues to expand domestic defence production. According to government data cited by PTI, India’s defence production reached a record ₹1.78 lakh crore in 2025-26, compared with ₹46,000 crore in 2014. Defence exports also reached ₹38,424 crore during 2025-26.
Why it matters
Missile systems require specialised manufacturing capabilities, components, testing and certification. Opening more DRDO-developed technologies to Indian industry can help expand the domestic industrial base and create opportunities for more companies to participate in missile production.
For Indian defence companies, the move could create opportunities to manufacture mature DRDO-developed technologies under formal technology-transfer arrangements.
The Defence Ministry said the initiative is intended to strengthen India’s indigenous defence capabilities, increase domestic value addition and support the growth of the country’s defence manufacturing sector.
The decision is aimed at helping transition DRDO-developed missile systems from development to industrial production while expanding the participation of Indian industry in the defence manufacturing ecosystem.
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