DRDO's TDF Scheme Fuels Innovation: Start-ups Thrive in Defence Technology Development

To date, the TDF scheme has sanctioned a total of 77 projects, amounting to over Rs 300 crore, across various sectors.

The Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme, a cornerstone initiative under the Ministry of Defence's 'Make in India' campaign, has been instrumental in fostering innovation and bolstering capabilities in cutting-edge defence technologies. Administered by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the TDF scheme aims to promote 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in defence by encouraging participation from public and private industries, especially start-ups and MSMEs.

To date, the TDF scheme has sanctioned a total of 77 projects, amounting to over Rs 300 crore, across various sectors. This funding has facilitated the successful realization of 27 defence technologies, underscoring its impact on advancing indigenous defence capabilities.

Several notable success stories highlight the transformative outcomes of the TDF scheme:

Combat Robotics, Pune: Combat Robotics, based in Pune, has achieved significant milestones under the TDF scheme with its development of an Innovative Simulator for Unmanned Vehicles. This simulator supports a wide spectrum of autonomous systems including Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Developed under the guidance of DRDO's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) in Bengaluru, the simulator integrates comprehensive environmental modeling, scenario & vehicle modeling, and intuitive control systems. It serves as a crucial tool for testing and validating autonomous behaviors across multiple domains.

ChiStats Labs Private Limited, Pune: ChiStats Labs has leveraged the TDF scheme to pioneer advancements in AI-driven technologies for Aero Gas Turbine Engine (AGTE) health monitoring. Their project focuses on developing virtual sensors that enhance operational reliability and longevity of AGTEs through advanced AI/ML frameworks. Mentored by DRDO's Gas Turbine Research Establishment in Bengaluru, ChiStats Labs has also excelled in developing tools for data assessment, active learning, and AI model validation tailored for defence applications. These innovations are set to enhance decision-making capabilities and operational efficiencies in critical defence scenarios.

NewSpace Research and Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru: In Bengaluru, NewSpace Research and Technologies has made significant strides with its project on developing an 'Autonomous Drone as First Responder' for operations in enclosed and indoor environments. This cutting-edge UAV integrates autonomous navigation systems, onboard object detection modules, and advanced AI/ML engines. Developed under CAIR's guidance, this technology promises breakthrough applications in search and rescue missions, surveillance, industrial inspections, and environmental monitoring. It underscores the TDF scheme's role in fostering advancements in unmanned aerial systems.

Secretary of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, commended the achievements of these start-ups and the collaborative efforts with DRDO labs. He highlighted that these successes exemplify DRDO's commitment to realizing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' in defence innovation.

The primary objectives of the TDF scheme include providing Grant in Aid to Indian industries, MSMEs, start-ups, academic, and scientific institutions for the development of defence and dual-use technologies. It aims to cultivate a culture of design and development of military technology within the private sector, focusing on niche technologies that are pioneering in India for the first time. Additionally, the TDF scheme serves to bridge collaborations between Armed Forces, research organizations, academia, certifying agencies, and private entities, fostering a robust ecosystem for indigenous defence technology development.