Raksha Rajya Mantri (Minister of State for Defence) Shri Sanjay Seth visited DRDO’s Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad, commending scientists for their pivotal contributions toward self-reliant defence systems and urging continued innovation for national security.
Highlights:
- Two-day visit to DRDO’s premier missile labs: DRDL, RCI & ASL (July 16–17, 2025)
- Review of key missile and weapon system programs including Astra Mk I & II and Scramjet engines
- Inspection of cutting-edge facilities like Imaging IR Seekers, Onboard Computers, and Navigation Systems
- Appreciation for DRDO’s efforts in boosting defence self-reliance
- Call for sustained innovation to bolster national defence capabilities
Full Article:
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth undertook a comprehensive two-day visit to the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Hyderabad on July 16 and 17, 2025. The visit focused on reviewing the progress of critical missile and weapon system programs under the Missile Cluster Labs — including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI), and Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL).
During his visit to DRDL, Shri Sanjay Seth examined various key work centers including Astra Mk I & II air-to-air missile projects, Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (VL-SRSAM), and Scramjet Engine facilities. He was briefed on ongoing developments and the current status of these projects by Distinguished Scientist & Director General (Missiles and Strategic Systems) Shri U Raja Babu and Director, DRDL Shri G A Srinivasa Murthy.
At RCI, Shri Sanjay Seth toured strategic development areas, including the Indigenous Navigation and Aviation Systems, the Onboard Computer Division, and Imaging Infra-Red Seeker facilities. Director of RCI, Shri Anindya Biswas, shared insights into the lab’s progress on advanced indigenous technologies being developed for the Indian defence ecosystem.
In his address to the scientific personnel, the Raksha Rajya Mantri lauded their dedication and achievements in driving the mission of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) through the creation of state-of-the-art missile and defence systems. He emphasized the importance of innovation and resilience in defence R&D to ensure the nation’s preparedness for emerging security challenges.
Shri Sanjay Seth’s visit reinforced the government’s commitment to indigenous defence capabilities and highlighted DRDO’s indispensable role in shaping the future of India’s strategic military edge.
