DRDO showcases indigenous semiconductor technologies, next-generation defence innovations at ESTIC 2026
By Aroonim Bhuyan
New Delhi. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased its indigenous semiconductor technologies and advanced defence research capabilities at the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC) 2026, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from October 27 to 29.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence on October 30, as one of the key organisers of the three-day conclave, DRDO led a thematic session on ‘Semiconductors and Next-Generation Chips’, bringing together experts from industry, academia, the indigenous chip-development ecosystem and defence electronics to deliberate on emerging technologies and their strategic applications.
The conclave, organised jointly by 12 ministries and departments under the guidance of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Held under the theme ‘Creative Minds, Catalysing Science, Empowering Society’, the event provided a platform for showcasing cutting-edge research, deep-tech innovations and discussions involving Nobel laureates, international experts, policymakers and emerging scientific leaders.
The semiconductor session was chaired by Distinguished Scientist and Director General of Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) Dr B.K. Das. A panel discussion moderated by Dr Das featured Distinguished Scientist and Director General of Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Systems Dr Sheena Rani among the panellists.
The discussions focused on emerging semiconductor technologies, purpose-built artificial intelligence (AI) System-on-Chips (SoCs), intelligence at the silicon edge and developments in the microprocessor ecosystem. The deliberations also highlighted DRDO’s efforts to facilitate collaboration with industries and startups to accelerate next-generation chip design, develop transformative technological solutions and strengthen India’s indigenous semiconductor capabilities.
At its outreach stall, DRDO presented a wide range of research programmes, technological achievements and indigenous innovations developed by its laboratories. The exhibits included advanced communication systems, quantum technology prototypes, extreme-cold-weather clothing, the PRABALA female full-body protector, passive and powered exoskeletons, portable hybrid energy management systems, high-power pulse laser diodes and scramjet engine technology.
The organisation also participated in the thematic and departmental exhibitions, with a special focus on its achievements in two critical semiconductor technology areas – Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) and Infrared Focal Plane Arrays (IRFPAs). Both technologies have been developed by DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi.
The MMIC exhibits included Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based chips, along with Multi-Chip Modules (MCMs), which have been deployed in several strategic missions. These semiconductor technologies are fundamental components of advanced radar systems and electronic warfare applications, where they contribute to the performance and operational capabilities of sophisticated defence platforms.
The IRFPAs, meanwhile, function as critical sensing components in tactical missile systems, enabling target acquisition and tracking during the terminal phase of flight through Imaging Infrared (IIR) seekers. DRDO displayed a range of infrared technologies covering Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) and Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR), underscoring the country’s growing indigenous capabilities in advanced infrared semiconductor technologies.
Other prominent exhibits included scramjet engine technology and neuromorphic accelerators, demonstrating DRDO’s research in complex and emerging technological domains. The exhibition also featured advanced communication systems, Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs), protective equipment, exoskeletons, portable hybrid energy management systems, Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) and laser proximity sensors.
The extensive display highlighted the growing importance of semiconductor technologies in strengthening India’s strategic autonomy, economic competitiveness and digital security. Semiconductors have become indispensable to modern communication systems, advanced sensors and sophisticated defence platforms, with chips determining their performance, efficiency and reliability.
Developing a robust domestic semiconductor ecosystem is also considered essential to achieving the national objectives of Viksit Bharat by 2047 and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India). Technological self-reliance in this critical sector extends beyond chip manufacturing to encompass indigenous design, fabrication, testing, commercial-scale production and resilient supply chains.
India’s long-term ambition is to emerge as a globally competitive and dependable semiconductor powerhouse by 2047, with technological leadership in selected next-generation chip segments. The vision envisages a sustainable domestic semiconductor ecosystem capable of generating high-value employment, strengthening strategic industries and delivering wider societal benefits.
Towards this objective, India’s strategic defence laboratories and specialised semiconductor facilities have progressively developed expertise in several critical technologies. These include DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), the Gallium Arsenide Enabling Technology Centre (GAETEC), the Semiconductor Technology and Applied Research Centre (STARC) and the Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL).
Over the years, these institutions have built specialised capabilities in Gallium Arsenide, Gallium Nitride, Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) and mature silicon process technologies, providing an indigenous technological foundation for applications across strategic and defence sectors.
DRDO’s participation at ESTIC 2026 thus highlighted the growing convergence of semiconductor research, advanced computing, artificial intelligence and defence electronics, while underscoring the importance of domestic research institutions in building India’s technological capabilities and reducing dependence on critical imported technologies.
