DRDO Displays Homegrown Defence Technologies at Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo 2026

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is showcasing a range of indigenous defence technologies at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 Expo in Tshwane, South Africa, highlighting India’s growing capabilities in advanced military systems and its expanding role in the international defence market. The five-day exhibition, being held from September 16 to 20, has DRDO participating at Hangar 2, Stall 2W 15. Through its presence at the expo, the organisation is highlighting India’s achievements in indigenous defence research and development while also seeking to strengthen cooperation and engagement with international partners.

Among the major systems being displayed are the Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR) system, the Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C), the Wheeled CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicle and the PDDS-X Portable Diver Detection Sonar. These platforms demonstrate capabilities in surveillance, reconnaissance, maritime security and specialised threat detection.

DRDO is also presenting the ASTRA MK-1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile, the Akash-NG Surface-to-Air Missile and the Low Frequency Variable Depth Sonar (LFVDS), along with technologies associated with Active Protection Systems. The exhibits underline India's progress in missile development, air defence, naval warfare and advanced monitoring technologies.

The Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo is held every two years in Tshwane and combines a defence trade exhibition with an air show. The event attracts military and government delegations from more than 30 countries, along with over 250 exhibitors and a large international audience. It serves as an important platform for defence manufacturers, governments and industry representatives to explore new technologies, partnerships and business opportunities.

While DRDO is displaying its technologies overseas, the organisation is also working to deepen cooperation with India's domestic defence industry. At the DRDO-Industry Synergy Meet, known as 'VIMARSH', Defence Minister Rajnath Singh introduced a series of measures aimed at making it easier for MSMEs and deep-tech start-ups to enter the defence technology ecosystem.

The new framework is intended to reduce technical and financial barriers faced by smaller companies by providing access to direct financial support, incubation facilities and DRDO testing infrastructure. Another initiative launched at the event provides a secure mechanism for sharing software source codes developed by DRDO with licensed industries. The move is aimed at encouraging the development of software-driven defence systems and helping manufacturers deal with technology obsolescence.

Nine Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology were also handed over to 13 manufacturing partners, allowing the companies to commercially produce advanced defence systems developed by DRDO. In addition, strategic Memorandums of Understanding were exchanged with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers and Laghu Udyog Bharati to broaden industry participation and encourage greater involvement from smaller businesses. DRDO also entered into a contract with the Quality Council of India for SAMAR 2.0, or the System for Advanced Manufacturing Assessment and Rating. The programme is designed to assess the manufacturing maturity of Indian defence companies and promote stronger quality standards throughout the production process.

Addressing the industry gathering, Rajnath Singh stressed that cooperation between DRDO and the private sector should cover more than manufacturing and extend across research, design, testing, certification and production. He said DRDO contributes knowledge and technology, industry offers scale, start-ups bring innovation and young people represent the country's future technological strength.

The initiatives form part of India's broader objective of achieving greater self-reliance in critical technologies and strengthening its defence industrial base. The government has also set goals of increasing indigenous content, expanding defence exports and enabling Indian companies to play a larger role in global supply chains as part of the country's development vision for 2047.

DRDO's participation at the Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo 2026, together with the new measures aimed at strengthening domestic industry, reflects India's simultaneous focus on promoting indigenous defence capabilities abroad and building a stronger manufacturing and innovation ecosystem at home. Together, these efforts are intended to enhance India's position in the global defence technology and manufacturing landscape.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.