Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over six indigenously developed radiation detection and monitoring systems to Indian Navy, tailored to meet Naval Staff Qualitative Requirements (NSQR). These strategic systems, developed using indigenous technology, will enhance the Navy’s readiness in radiological emergency response, nuclear safety, and NBC warfare scenarios.
This follows successful June 2025 test of the indigenous Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) ‘Astra’ by the Indian Air Force using an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in critical defence technologies.
List of DRDO Products Handed Over to Indian Navy
Purpose: To strengthen the Indian Navy’s capabilities in Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) monitoring and radiological safety.
1. Gamma Radiation Aerial Surveillance System (GRASS)
- Purpose: Aerial radiological survey in nuclear-affected areas.
- Features:
- Compact gamma radiation sensor.
- Can be mounted on unmanned aerial platforms (e.g., drones).
- Enables rapid detection and mapping of gamma radiation zones during nuclear emergencies.
2. Environmental Surveillance Vehicle (ESV)
- Developed by: Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), a DRDO lab.
- Purpose: Detects nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) contaminants.
- Role: Real-time monitoring and contamination analysis in high-risk zones.
- Utility: Supports quick decision-making in NBC emergency scenarios.
3. Vehicle Radiological Contamination Monitoring System (VRCMS)
- Purpose: Detects and assesses radiological contamination in vehicles exposed to radiation.
- Use: Ensures vehicles are safe before re-entry into clean zones via decontamination validation.
4. Underwater Gamma Radiation Monitoring System (UGRMS)
- Function: Monitors gamma radiation levels in underwater environments.
- Features:
- Real-time data transmission to shore/remote stations.
- Enhances maritime nuclear safety and supports monitoring near nuclear-powered vessels or underwater installations.
5. Dirt Extractor and Cross Contamination Monitor (DECCOM)
- Application: Prevents the spread of radioactive/chemical materials from contaminated zones.
- Mechanism: Extracts and monitors contaminants from footwear, acting as a frontline decontamination solution for entry/exit points.
6. Organ Radioactivity Detection System (ORDS)
- Purpose: Detects internal radiation exposure in human organs.
- Utility:
- Critical in medical diagnostics during nuclear incidents.
- Used by defence personnel, first responders, and civilians during radiological emergencies.
Strategic Significance
- All systems are indigenously designed, supporting the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in the defence sector.
- These tools will strengthen India’s NBC warfare readiness, maritime nuclear monitoring, and post-disaster radiological assessments.
- The integration of advanced technologies such as remote sensing, automation, and real-time data analytics positions India among nations with advanced NBC management capabilities.
Key Facts
- DRDO was established in 1958 under the Ministry of Defence.
- VRDE is located in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra and specializes in defence mobility solutions.
- Astra Missile: India’s first indigenous BVR Air-to-Air Missile; tested with an indigenous RF seeker in June 2025 from a Su-30 MKI platform.
- NBC Warfare: Involves defence against Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical threats; essential for both wartime and disaster-response scenarios.