Private defence manufacturers can now access DRDO weapon-system source codes to manage electronics obsolescence, software upgrades, and capability enhancements with less laboratory dependence.
Private defence manufacturers will now be able to access the software source codes of DRDO-designed weapon systems under a new government framework aimed at speeding up upgrades and managing electronics obsolescence.
The framework allows authorised industry engineers to fix software, add capabilities, and adapt systems when electronic components become obsolete, reducing dependence on DRDO laboratories for patches, upgrades, and component replacements. The government describes it as “standardised, secure” and designed to “accelerate software-defined defence capabilities and obsolescence management.”
The move addresses a long-standing limitation in technology transfers (ToT), under which manufacturers have generally received hardware drawings but not rights to modify the software. The change is particularly significant for radars, missiles, avionics, and electronic warfare suites, where software and electronics are central to system capabilities and lifecycle upgrades.
The policy follows the Ministry of Defence’s decision last month to transfer technology for all conventional DRDO-developed missile systems to private industry, with firms able to compete for technology and production rights subject to technical qualification and certification.
Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh said, “Till date, over 2,300 Technology Transfers have been handed over to more than 1,100 industries.” He added that DRDO-industry collaboration should span research, design, testing, certification, and manufacturing.
Nine ToT licensing agreements were also handed over to 13 manufacturing partners. A separate framework will support MSMEs and deep-tech start-ups through direct funding, incubation support, and access to DRDO testing facilities.
