The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested a Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS)—the only parachute system currently in operational use by the Indian Armed Forces capable of deployment above 25,000 feet.
DRDO's indigenously developed MCPS successfully completed a combat freefall jump from an altitude of 32,000 feet, the Ministry of Defence said in an official release on Wednesday night. The jump was executed by test jumpers Wg Cdr Vishal Lakhesh, MWO R J Singh, and MWO Vivek Tiwari.
"The jump was executed by the test jumpers of the Indian Air Force, showcasing the efficiency, reliability, and advanced design of the indigenous system. Raksha Mantri (Defence Minister) Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the Industry on the successful demonstration. He described it as a significant milestone for India’s indigenous defence capability," a PIB release said.
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Achieving major milestone in critical defence technologies, Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS), indigenously developed by DRDO has successfully undergone a combat freefall jump from an altitude of 32,000 feet. The parachute system was deployed at an altitude of 30,000 ft,… pic.twitter.com/VPApxpYO3x
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) October 15, 2025
The credit for its development goes to the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment in Agra and the Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory in Bengaluru, the release added.
Why is the Military Combat Parachute System special?
Elaborating on the features of the MCPS, DRDO said that it was equipped with several improved tactical features that make parachute drops safer and precise for India's bravehearts. It reduces the rate of descent, helping the paratroopers to come down more slowly and with reduced risk of accidents. The system is compatible with Navigation with Indian Constellation, and it can be used against any adversary we choose.
It offers better steering control, so troops can guide themselves after leaving the aircraft.
These improvements let paratroopers safely exit the aircraft, open their parachutes at planned altitudes, navigate accurately while under canopy, and touch down in the intended landing zones. It is also designed to resist outside interference or attempts to deny its service by other parties or nations.
“The success of this system has opened doors for the induction of indigenous parachute systems. This will ensure maximum utility of the parachute system over its lifetime due to the least turnaround time for routine maintenance and repair compared to imported equipment. This will also reduce dependency on other nations for its serviceability during times of conflict and war,” the release said.
