India’s drive for self-reliance in defence technology has long been spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Established in 1958, DRDO has played a crucial role in developing indigenous defence systems, reducing India’s dependence on foreign military imports.
Over the years, it has been credited with landmark achievements, including the Agni and Prithvi missile systems, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, and key missile defence and electronic warfare systems. However, frequent delays in delivering critical military platforms and technologies have raised concerns about India’s operational readiness in an evolving security landscape.
However a closer examination of DRDO’s project timelines reveals a recurring pattern of significant delays. A comprehensive audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India found that out of 178 high-priority projects reviewed, 119 failed to meet their original deadlines. In some instances, project timelines were extended by up to 500% beyond the initial estimate.
Such protracted schedules impact the timely availability of essential defence equipment, limiting India’s ability to respond effectively to security threats. These delays force the armed forces to extend the operational life of ageing platforms and create gaps in modernisation plans, compelling continued procurement of critical weapons and systems from foreign suppliers.
As of early 2023, DRDO was engaged in 55′ mission mode’ projects—high-priority initiatives with direct national security implications and strict deadlines. However, official data showed that 23 of these projects were running behind schedule, reinforcing doubts about DRDO’s ability to meet critical deadlines. While delays in research and development can stem from technological complexity, budget constraints, or procurement red tape, the scale and frequency of DRDO’s project extensions point to systemic inefficiencies in execution and management.
Several key programs illustrate these challenges. The Kaveri engine program, initiated in the 1990s to power India’s indigenous fighter aircraft, was intended to reduce reliance on foreign engines. However, despite significant investment, the Kaveri engine failed to meet the required thrust and weight specifications. After years of development, it was deemed unfit for the Tejas fighter, forcing India to continue using GE engines from the United States. Similarly, the Tejas Mk2 fighter jet—considered a crucial addition to the Indian Air Force—has undergone multiple schedule revisions. Initially expected much earlier, its first prototype is now slated for rollout by the end of 2025, with an inaugural flight in early 2026.
Reports suggest that funding delays have contributed to this setback, highlighting procedural challenges in the development process.
Beyond fighter jets, DRDO’s struggles in project execution extend across various defence programs. The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a critical artillery project, has seen significant delays despite its potential to enhance India’s firepower. Similarly, indigenous Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) programs have lagged behind global advancements in drone warfare, leaving the armed forces dependent on imports.
The Army has made repeated attempts to acquire modern ATGMs, but the process has faced multiple roadblocks. In 2009 and again in 2018, the procurement of third-generation missiles was nearly finalised. However, both times, DRDO assured the government that it could develop an indigenous third-generation ATGM, leading to the cancellation of the procurement process. Despite these assurances, DRDO has yet to deliver even a basic prototype.
These delays have direct operational consequences. The Indian Air Force, for example, operates with just 31 fighter squadrons—well below the sanctioned strength of 42 required to counter potential threats from China and Pakistan. The shortfall has been exacerbated by delays in platforms such as the Tejas Mk1A and the fifth-generation AMCA project.
Recognising these issues, DRDO has taken steps to improve project management and execution efficiency. Measures such as increased internal oversight, frequent project reviews, enhanced collaboration with end-users, and revised financial delegation mechanisms have been introduced to streamline decision-making and reduce delays. While these reforms may yield better results in the future, it remains to be seen whether they will fundamentally transform DRDO’s project execution capabilities.
Despite its setbacks, DRDO remains a cornerstone of India’s defence ecosystem. The successful development of strategic assets like the Agni-V intercontinental ballistic missile, the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant, and the BrahMos missile program underscores its ability to deliver cutting-edge defence technologies. However, its track record of delays raises concerns about its ability to meet India’s growing defence needs in a timely manner. In an era of rapid technological advancements and evolving security threats, setbacks in indigenous defence programs could have serious national security implications.
As global defence trends shift toward faster innovation cycles and AI-driven warfare, India cannot afford to be hindered by bureaucratic inertia and project delays. DRDO’s path forward will require technological expertise and a commitment to improving efficiency, accountability, and timely execution. The future of India’s defence preparedness depends on whether the organisation can overcome these longstanding hurdles and deliver critical defence systems in alignment with the nation’s security imperatives.