We Need To Concentrate On Research And Futuristic Systems

G. Satheesh Reddy has had a fascinating first year as chairman of the country’s premier defence research agency, the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

- Pradip R. Sagar

After achieving the final operational clearance for the light combat aircraft Tejas and the successful anti-satellite test, he is now leading a multi-pronged effort to build the next class of fighter jets.

Besides developing more powerful engines and potent weaponry, the DRDO is now capable of building much bigger jets, including commercial aircraft. At a time when China is helping Pakistan develop its next-generation fighter jet, the DRDO’s fighter jet project will provide extra firepower to the Indian Air Force. In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, India’s top defence scientist talks about the DRDO’s big plans.

You have completed one year as DRDO chairman. What are the changes you have been able to bring into the field of defence research?

The first year as DRDO head has been very eventful for me. We are in a phase of consolidating and expanding into futuristic technologies in defence research. We are converting our experience and skills into matured technologies and expanding our product range to fulfil the requirements of the tri-services. We could successfully demonstrate anti-satellite capability and become the fourth nation to do so.

At the same time, I have initiated research in advanced fields like quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, asymmetric technologies, advanced materials and sensors, and so on. Defence technologies for space and cyber security are other areas where we have started work in a big way. Work on indigenous air propulsion systems is progressing well. Trials of Nirbhay cruise missile, Nag missile and anti-tank guided missile have been successfully conducted in the past one year.