Date: October 20, 2025
Category: India News | Defence | Technology
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to collaborate with a leading Pune-based defence manufacturing company for the large-scale production of its advanced Ordnance Disposal Robot, officials confirmed on Monday.
The partnership aims to enhance India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and provide the armed forces with cutting-edge robotic technology for handling and neutralizing explosive threats.
🔩 Boost to Indigenous Defence Production
The ordnance disposal robot, developed by DRDO’s Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), is designed to detect, handle, and safely dispose of unexploded bombs, landmines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
According to defence sources, the robot will be produced under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aligning with the government’s goal of achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies.
“This partnership is a crucial step in bridging the gap between innovation and deployment. The robot has undergone rigorous trials and is now ready for mass production,” a senior DRDO official said.
🧠 Features of the Ordnance Disposal Robot
The robot integrates AI-assisted navigation, high-definition surveillance cameras, and a manipulator arm that can safely disarm explosives from a distance. It can be remotely operated from a control vehicle, ensuring maximum safety for bomb disposal units.
Key features include:
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Remote control operation up to 2 km
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Real-time video transmission
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360° movement and obstacle avoidance
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Lightweight and modular design
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Compatibility with military-grade communication systems
⚙️ Strategic Partnership with Pune Defence Firm
The Pune-based company, specializing in robotics and defence automation, will oversee the production, quality assurance, and field support for the robots. The first batch is expected to be delivered to the armed forces by mid-2026.
The partnership marks another milestone in India’s effort to strengthen public-private collaboration in the defence sector.
🪖 Defence Modernization Push
This move comes as part of India’s broader modernization program for its armed forces. The deployment of such AI-driven robots will enhance the efficiency and safety of explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams, reducing human risk in high-threat environments.
FAQs
1. What is the DRDO ordnance disposal robot?
The DRDO ordnance disposal robot is an AI-powered machine developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to detect, handle, and neutralize explosive devices such as bombs, IEDs, and landmines safely and efficiently.
2. Which DRDO lab developed this robot?
The robot was developed by DRDO’s Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), which focuses on applying robotics and AI technologies for defence and security operations.
3. Which company is DRDO partnering with for production?
DRDO is collaborating with a Pune-based defence manufacturing company that specializes in robotics and automation systems. The firm will handle the production, testing, and deployment of the robots across various defence units.
4. What are the main features of the ordnance disposal robot?
Key features include:
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AI-assisted navigation
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Remote control operation (up to 2 km)
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High-definition cameras for surveillance
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Manipulator arm for bomb handling
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Lightweight, modular design for easy transport
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Military-grade communication system
5. How will this partnership help India’s defence sector?
This collaboration supports the ‘Make in India’ initiative by boosting indigenous defence production and reducing dependency on foreign technology. It also enhances safety and efficiency for Indian defence forces during bomb disposal operations.
6. When will production begin?
The production phase is expected to begin in early 2026, with the first batch of robots likely to be delivered to the armed forces by mid-2026 after successful field trials.
7. How does this robot improve soldier safety?
The robot allows bomb disposal experts to operate from a safe distance, reducing the risk of injury or death during explosive ordnance disposal missions.
8. How does this tie into India’s modernization goals?
The DRDO-Pune partnership aligns with India’s broader goal of defence modernization and self-reliance, ensuring that the country develops and deploys AI-driven military technologies domestically.
