15 Centre of Excellence Launched to Advance Defence Innovation
New Delhi, March 21, 2025: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is intensifying its engagement with private industries. It is also working with academic institutions. The goal is to promote next-generation technological innovation for India’s defense needs. Through its Technology Development Fund (TDF) initiative, new policies have been introduced. They focus on Deep Tech and advanced research. These policies allow DRDO to collaborate with private firms. DRDO supports them through grant-based funding for breakthrough projects.
The Minister of State for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth, provided this update. It was in response to a query from Smt Sanjna Jatav in the Lok Sabha.
Enhanced Private Sector Role in Defence R&D
To maintain leadership in global defense technology, DRDO has developed comprehensive research roadmaps aligned with international trends. These roadmaps are regularly updated through bi-monthly global review reports, which track advancements in defense technologies across the world.
DRDO actively conducts international research monitoring using established frameworks. They review open-source data, including social media platforms, to identify emerging trends. Scientists also have access to global defence technology databases, keeping them informed about the latest developments.
Industry-Academia Collaboration for Future Technologies
DRDO aims to strengthen cooperation between industry, academic institutions, and research bodies. It has established 15 DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoEs) at prestigious institutes. These include IITs, IISc, and leading central universities. These centres are focused on fostering joint research in vital areas of future defense technologies.
Each centre is dedicated to specific high-tech domains. These domains span across 84 key technology sectors. They include artificial intelligence, robotics, smart materials, quantum technology, and cybersecurity.
SOP for Efficient Collaboration
DRDO has implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to facilitate smooth execution of collaborative projects. This SOP guides engagement between industries and academic institutions. This streamlined approach is designed to ensure timely project delivery and smooth technology transfer through DIA-CoEs.
Advancing Self-Reliance in Defence
This push toward deeper private sector collaboration supports India’s aim. The aim is self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. By nurturing startups, MSMEs, and domestic industries, DRDO is working to strengthen indigenous development and reduce dependence on foreign technologies.
With the establishment of DIA-CoEs and focused collaboration models, India is well-positioned to accelerate defence innovation. This positions India to maintain a technological edge in national security.
