The Defence Ministry announced new measures for MSMEs and deep-tech startups to expand defence manufacturing, technology transfer, testing access and industry participation.

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• The Defence Ministry unveiled new policy initiatives for MSMEs and deep-tech startups during the DRDO-Industry Synergy Meet VIMARSH 2026.
• The measures aim to strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem through funding, incubation support, testing facilities and greater industry participation.
• Eligible MSMEs and startups will receive improved access to DRDO testing facilities, helping reduce technical and financial barriers for defence technologies.
• Nine Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology were handed to 13 manufacturing partners for commercial production of advanced indigenous defence systems.
• DRDO launched a secure framework for sharing software source codes with licensed industries, supporting software-defined defence capabilities and technology management.
• Memorandums of Understanding with industry organisations aim to widen outreach and strengthen partnerships with domestic defence manufacturing enterprises.
• DRDO signed an agreement with Quality Council of India for SAMAR 2.0, assessing manufacturing maturity among domestic defence enterprises.
• The initiatives support broader defence industry goals involving research, design, testing, certification, manufacturing and technology absorption through domestic partnerships.
• Deep-tech startups working in artificial intelligence, robotics, sensors, cyber systems and advanced materials can contribute significantly to future defence applications.
• The policy measures are designed to encourage indigenous production, private-sector participation and stronger technology transfer across India’s defence value chain.