Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO): Overview and Projects

10 Questions

What is the main focus of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)?

Ensuring India's national security through scientific research and development

What is the purpose of the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV)?

To intercept incoming ballistic missiles

Which missile system was successfully developed by the DRDO with a range of over 5,000 km?

Agni-5 missile

What fuel type powers the PDV missile?

Solid propellants

What system did the DRDO successfully test on November 22, 2015, intercepting and destroying a simulated target missile?

Advanced Air Defence interceptor missile system

Which field of research and development has the DRDO been working on related to soldiers' health?

Life sciences

What is the purpose of the project Kusha that the DRDO is working on?

Creating a long-range mobile surface-to-air missile defence system

Which of the following is NOT a department where the DRDO is actively involved?

Marine Biology

Which Indian military wings does the DRDO primarily develop military technology for?

Indian Army and Indian Navy

What does CIHP I, developed by the DRDO, primarily consist of?

Ingredients from seven different plants used in Ayurveda

Study Notes

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier scientific research and development body in India that focuses on ensuring India's national security. Established in 1958, the DRDO is responsible for developing military technology for the three wings of the Indian military – the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force, as well as the Indian Coast Guard and paramilitary forces.

The DRDO is involved in a wide range of research and development activities in various departments, including missile, aeronautical, armaments, life sciences, and cyber security.

Missile Development

The DRDO has been instrumental in the development of several missile systems, including the Agni-5 missile, which was successfully flight tested for the first time on March 12, 2024. The Agni-5 is a long-range ballistic missile with a range of over 5,000 km.

The DRDO is also working on the development of a long-range mobile surface-to-air missile defence system under the project Kusha.

AAD

The DRDO has successfully tested several versions of the Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile system. On November 22, 2015, an upgraded version of the AAD was tested, intercepting and destroying a simulated target missile. On May 15, 2016, the AAD intercepted and destroyed a Prithvi ballistic missile in a real-world test.

Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV)

The PDV is an exo-atmospheric interceptor missile designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles. It is a two-stage missile powered by solid propellants and has a range of over 5,000 km.

Life Sciences

The DRDO is also involved in research and development in the field of life sciences. The organisation has been working on developing herbal products to address the unique challenges faced by soldiers in the field, including exposure to harsh conditions and potential health hazards. The DRDO has developed a composite Indian herbal preparation, CIHP I, which includes ingredients derived from seven different plants used in Ayurveda.

Other Departments

The DRDO is also active in other departments, including aeronautics and armaments. The organisation has conducted flight trials of a sea-based interceptor missile for naval ballistic missile defence, known as the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV).

In summary, the DRDO is a key player in India's military research and development, with a focus on developing advanced technologies to ensure the nation's security. The organisation's work spans various fields, including missile development, aeronautics, armaments, and life sciences.