The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) will present groundbreaking technologies aimed at strengthening national security during the Republic Day Parade 2025, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
These innovations showcase India’s advancements in defence and highlight DRDO’s role in developing cutting-edge solutions to protect the nation. The event will give citizens a glimpse of the latest achievements in technology and their importance in securing the country.
For the first time, the DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) may showcase a “Laser-Based Directed Energy Weapon” in its parade display. Alongside this, the Pralay surface-to-surface tactical missile system will also be featured, shown in its ready-to-use form.
The display will also feature advanced defence technologies, such as artillery (large military guns), sensors, air defence systems, and missiles.
During the 76th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, DRDO will showcase its latest innovations and defence systems. These displays represent DRDO’s goal of equipping India with modern, advanced technologies. The aim is also to promote self-reliance (‘Aatmanirbharta’) in defence, meaning India can develop and produce its own defence equipment without depending on other countries, explained the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The DRDO’s display, titled ‘Raksha Kavach – Multi-layer Protection against Multi-domain Threats,’ will highlight various advanced defence systems and technologies. The theme focuses on how these systems provide strong, multi-layered security to protect against different types of threats, ensuring the safety of the nation.
The DRDO will showcase several advanced defence systems, each designed to enhance national security. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the featured technologies:
– Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM): A fast and efficient missile system that can quickly detect and destroy enemy aircraft or missiles in the air.
– Airborne Early Warning & Control System (AEW&C):A flying radar system that detects threats from the air and helps coordinate defence operations.
– 155 mm/52 Cal Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS): A powerful, long-range artillery gun designed to deliver precise strikes during battles.
– Drone Detect, Deter & Destroy System: A system to spot, disrupt, and destroy enemy drones, ensuring safety from aerial threats.
– Satellite-Based Surveillance System: A space-based system that monitors activities on the ground, providing real-time intelligence for defence.
– Medium Power Radar ‘Arudhra’: A radar system that can track multiple targets, like aircraft or missiles, over a wide range.
– Advanced Lightweight Torpedo: A fast and portable underwater weapon used to target enemy submarines and ships.
– Electronic Warfare System ‘Dharashakti’: A system that jams or disrupts enemy communication and radar signals during combat.
– Laser-Based Directed Energy Weapon: A cutting-edge weapon that uses lasers to destroy targets with precision and speed.
– Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS): A portable missile system to protect against low-flying aircraft and helicopters.
– Indigenous Unmanned Aerial System (UAS): A locally developed drone system for surveillance and defence missions.
– V/UHF Manpack Software Defined Radio for Land Forces: A compact and advanced radio system for secure and reliable communication on the battlefield.
– Indigenous Secure Satellite Phone: A secure communication device that uses satellites to ensure privacy and reliability, even in remote areas.
– UGRAM Assault Rifle: A modern, indigenously built rifle designed for effective performance in combat situations.
These systems are probably visual displays or models instead of functioning parts. In other words, they show what things look like rather than actually working. This means they are meant for people to see and understand, rather than to be used in real-life operations.
The DRDO tableau will showcase key achievements from 2024, highlighting advanced technologies and innovations in defense. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
– Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile: A high-speed missile capable of traveling over 1,000 km to destroy enemy ships with precision.
– Lightweight Bulletproof Jacket ‘ABHED’: Stands for “AtmaNirbhar Bharat Heavy-duty Explosive Defense”, offering strong protection to soldiers while being lightweight for comfort and mobility.
– ‘Divyastra’ MIRV Technology: A missile system that delivers multiple warheads to hit different targets simultaneously, enhancing battlefield efficiency.
– ‘Zorawar’ Light Tank: A compact, lightweight tank designed for rapid movement and effective operations in hilly and rugged terrains.
– Dornier Aircraft Mid-Life Upgrade: Upgraded with advanced radar, electronic warfare systems, better communication tools, and improved surveillance optics for modern defense needs.
DRDO, highlighting its dedication to self-reliance and national security, will present the Pralay Weapon System—a modern surface-to-surface tactical missile built using cutting-edge technology.
About the Pralay Missile:
– Surface-to-Surface Missile: Designed to strike ground targets with high precision.
– Advanced Technology: Equipped with innovative features for superior performance in tactical operations.
– High Mobility: Can be quickly deployed and launched, making it effective in critical situations.
– Range: Capable of hitting targets at distances of 150 to 500 km.
– Warhead Options: Can carry various types of warheads, making it versatile for different combat scenarios.
– Self-Reliant Design: Fully developed in India, showcasing the nation’s progress in defense technology.
DRDO will also showcase various advanced systems used by the Armed Forces during the parade. These include powerful missiles and defense systems designed to strengthen India’s security. Here’s a simple breakdown:
– Nag Missile System: A smart anti-tank guided missile designed to destroy enemy tanks with precision and effectiveness.
– Pinaka Rocket Launcher System: A multi-barrel rocket launcher capable of firing multiple rockets quickly, ideal for large-scale battlefield attacks.
– BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile: A high-speed missile that can strike targets on land or sea with pinpoint accuracy.
– Akash Weapon System: A surface-to-air missile system designed to protect against enemy aircraft and aerial threats.
These systems represent India’s growing strength in defense technology and its focus on self-reliance in military advancements.
The Short Span Bridging System (10m) will also be showcased. This system is designed to help troops quickly cross obstacles like rivers or gaps during missions. It ensures faster movement and better mobility for soldiers, making it a vital tool in challenging terrains and combat situations.
(The author of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: [email protected])
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DRDO’s Republic Day 2025 Display: Glimpse into India’s defence future
