Researchers must focus on AI, space & cybersecurity: DRDO Chairman

New Delhi: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Director, Dr Satheesh Reddy, has appealed that the researchers should focus on developing advanced technologies of the future. Dr Reddy made the statement while addressing the event to commemorate the 63rd foundation day of DRDO.

DRDO has an immense capacity for developments in the defence production sector. Reddy said that to make India self-reliant in advanced and futuristic technologies, educational institutions, research and development organisations and industries need to make combined efforts. Moreover, Reddy underlined that the researchers needed to pay attention to the needs of the next generation. The DRDO Director stated that researchers would have to focus on the artificial intelligence (AI), space and cybersecurity, which will be essential requirements of the future.

At the time, DRDO Chairman Dr Reddy stated that ‘The MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) export small components to subsystems for the DRDO projects. Nevertheless, these enterprises have now become partners in new developments. At least 30 startups are required to come forward to develop innovative products for the Indian armed forces every year. Also, DRDO is making efforts for long-term partnerships.’

Reddy appealed that ‘DRDO needs to focus on ultramodern and innovative research. At the same time, the research has to transform into actual production. The industry should acquire new technologies and make such products available in the markets, along with the required infrastructure.’

Tremendous efforts are being made to make India self-reliant in defence production. Along with production, the emphasis is also being laid on the export of defence equipment. The participation of the private sector is being encouraged, for this purpose. India has set a target of ₹1.75 lakh crore turnover in defence manufacturing by 2025.

Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the export of Aakash missiles. Nine countries have shown interest in the missiles. Now, India, which had been known to be the largest importer of defence equipment, is emerging as an exporter of defence equipment. Against this backdrop, the DRDO Director Satheesh Reddy’s appeal to the researchers – to focus on futuristic technologies becomes significant. Meanwhile, Dr Reddy met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.