Visakhapatnam emerged as the focal point of defence innovation on Tuesday when the Standing Committee on Defence, under Radha Mohan Singh’s leadership, conducted an on-site review at DRDO’s NSTL. The tour aimed to assess progress in homegrown technologies fortifying the Indian Navy’s underwater warfare capabilities.
Delegates delved into NSTL’s impressive portfolio of indigenous developments. Key exhibits included heavyweight and lightweight torpedoes—Varunastra, ALWT, and EHWT—alongside anti-submarine mines (MIGM, PBGM), countermeasure decoys (SFD, Turbuster), the innovative SMART torpedo release system, endurance-focused HE-AUVs, swarm drone operations underwater, and integrated subsea weapon platforms.
The highlight was a dynamic live test in the Sea-Keeping and Maneuvering Basin, where a miniature ship model underwent rigorous hydrodynamic trials. This facility is instrumental in simulating real-world conditions for ships and underwater vehicles, ensuring optimal performance before deployment.
High-ranking officials, including DRDO chief Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Navy Systems DG Dr. R.V. Hara Prasad, and NSTL head Dr. Abraham Varghese, hosted the parliamentary team, which comprised MPs, Lok Sabha Secretariat staff, and Ministry of Defence representatives. Dr. Varghese detailed current R&D projects, partnerships with private sectors and educational institutions, and a visionary roadmap targeting maritime and underwater domain awareness.
The committee lauded these initiatives, emphasizing their role in elevating India’s naval strength amid evolving security challenges. This engagement signals stronger parliamentary oversight and support for DRDO’s push towards technological self-sufficiency, promising a robust future for India’s blue-water navy.