India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has long been at the forefront of indigenous military technology development. As part of its mission to enhance self-reliance in defence production, DRDO is increasingly engaging in the Transfer of Technology (ToT) to private industry players. One of the most recent examples of this initiative is the offer to transfer the technology of the 155 mm/52 calibre gun barrel to private firms.
Understanding the 155 mm/52 Calibre Gun Barrel
The 155 mm/52 calibre gun barrel has been developed by DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) as a critical component for the Mounted Gun System (MGS). This barrel features a 23-litre chamber capacity, which makes it lighter than its counterpart in the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), which has a 25-litre chamber. Despite the reduction in weight, the barrel maintains high performance, capable of firing up to zone-6 charges, achieving the required range with standard 155 mm ammunition.
What Transfer of Technology (ToT) Means for India
The ToT process involves DRDO licensing its developed technologies to private firms, allowing them to manufacture, refine, and supply these critical defence components. This move has several strategic implications:
- Boosting Indigenous Production – By transferring technology to private players, DRDO ensures that India’s defence manufacturing sector is strengthened, reducing dependence on foreign imports.
- Enhancing Industrial Capabilities – Private firms gain access to cutting-edge defence technology, enabling them to improve their own manufacturing standards and innovate in artillery systems.
- Accelerating Production Efficiency – With private industry’s expertise in mass production, the time taken to equip the armed forces with advanced artillery is significantly reduced.
- Economic Growth and Job Creation – A thriving domestic defence industry contributes to economic growth and generates employment, furthering India’s self-reliance agenda.
Aligning with ‘Make in India’ and Self-Reliance Goals
The initiative to transfer technology aligns seamlessly with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiatives. By encouraging domestic production of key defence equipment, India not only strengthens its own armed forces but also creates opportunities for defence exports in the future.
