DRDO opens strategic weapons production to private firms in major Defence shift
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New Delhi, August 19: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has invited Indian private companies to participate in the future development and production of strategic weapon systems, marking a significant shift in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The move is aimed at expanding private-sector participation in critical defence programmes and strengthening the country’s push for Atmanirbharta in defence.
Private firms to compete for DRDO projects
Under the proposed framework, Indian companies will first be evaluated on their technical and financial capabilities before being considered for specific DRDO projects.
For each programme, DRDO plans to select at least two companies as development-cum-production partners. These firms will work with DRDO during prototype development and testing and could subsequently receive production orders once the systems are cleared for large-scale deployment.
The initiative could allow private companies to become more deeply involved in the complete defence production cycle, from development and testing to manufacturing.
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Strategic missile systems in focus
The move is particularly significant as it involves the Directorate of Missiles and Strategic Systems, the DRDO wing responsible for several of India’s strategic missile programmes.
The directorate has been associated with major systems, including the Agni series, and plays a crucial role in developing advanced strategic weapons capabilities.
Until now, production of several such systems has largely depended on state-run defence manufacturers. Greater participation by private companies could increase manufacturing capacity and introduce greater competition into the sector.
🚨 DRDO Allows Private Sector to Manufacture Strategic Missiles and Nuclear Weapon Systems. pic.twitter.com/WATDY9cX3k
— Bharat Tech & Infra (@BharatTechIND) August 19, 2026
Eligibility requirements for companies
Companies seeking to participate will have to meet technical, financial and regulatory requirements. Firms will also need the necessary industrial licences for defence manufacturing and appropriate permissions for handling and storing explosive materials, where required.
Boost to Atmanirbhar defence
The move comes amid the government’s broader efforts to reduce dependence on imported defence equipment and build a stronger domestic defence industry.
By involving private companies in strategic weapons development and production, DRDO aims to expand India’s industrial base, accelerate manufacturing and create additional capacity for advanced defence systems.