Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration in defence research and development, aimed at enhancing technological innovation for the Indian armed forces.
The partnership seeks to leverage the extensive research and development capabilities of DST to address the evolving needs of the armed forces by aligning defence technology research with national science initiatives and enhancing the self-reliance of India's defence sector in critical technology domains.
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Under this MoU, DST will facilitate access to its research infrastructure, expertise and academic institutions to meet the requirements of the defence sector.
“The collaboration will focus on developing advanced military technologies and fostering innovation, contributing to the overall goal of building self-reliance in critical defence capabilities,” a statement from the defence ministry said.
The partnership between HQ IDS and DTS underscores the joint commitment to promoting cutting-edge research, aligning with the national vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, and emphasises a whole-of-nation approach towards enhancing the country’s defence preparedness, the ministry stated.
The MoU was signed by Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, HQ IDS, Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan and Additional Secretary, DST Sunil Kumar in the presence of Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lieutenant General J.P. Mathew and Secretary DST, Abhay Karandikar.
