Defence Technology and DRDO
Defence technology is the engine of national security and strategic autonomy. In the 21st century, military power is no longer measured only by troop numbers—it is defined by precision strike capabilities, surveillance networks, cyber defence, artificial intelligence, and indigenous research. For UPSC aspirants, this topic is crucial because it connects national security with science and technology, government policy, and India’s rise as a regional power. Understanding the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is central to this story—it is India’s premier agency for military research, responsible for iconic systems like Agni, Akash, and Tejas.
Constitutionally, defence is a Union subject. The legal foundation lies in the Seventh Schedule, Union List, Entries 1–5, which give Parliament exclusive power over defence, armed forces, defence production, and arms. This means the Centre—through the Ministry of Defence and DRDO—has complete jurisdiction over military research and procurement.
This chapter covers the following subtopics:
- Evolution and organisational structure of DRDO
- India’s missile programme: Agni, Prithvi, Akash, and BrahMos
- Strategic systems: nuclear deterrence, ballistic missile defence, and cruise missiles
- Aeronautics: Tejas, advanced light helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles
- Naval defence systems: submarines, destroyers, and torpedoes
- Electronic warfare, cyber defence, and radar systems
- Space and anti-satellite capabilities (Mission Shakti)
- Emerging technologies: hypersonic missiles, AI, quantum, and directed energy weapons
- Defence indigenisation, Make in India, and the role of private industry
- Achievements, challenges, and reforms in DRDO
For UPSC, this topic has direct exam relevance. In Prelims, questions often come from recent tests, missile names, DRDO projects, and constitutional provisions—for example, “Which missile is a surface-to-air missile?” or “What is the role of the Union List in defence?” In Mains, the topic is relevant for GS Paper 3 (Security and Science & Technology) and GS Paper 2 (Government policies and interventions). Questions may ask you to evaluate DRDO’s contribution to self-reliance, discuss the challenges of defence indigenisation, or analyse the strategic importance of emerging military technologies. A clear understanding of this chapter will help you write balanced, fact-rich answers and connect technical developments with broader national security objectives.
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