HQ IDS and DST Sign MoU to Boost Defence Research and Technological Innovation

New Delhi: In a significant step towards strengthening collaboration in defence research and development, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on March 21, 2025, in New Delhi. The agreement aims to enhance technological innovation and self-reliance in critical defence capabilities for the Indian Armed Forces.

The MoU was formally signed by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, HQ IDS, and Sunil Kumar, Additional Secretary, DST, in the presence of Lieutenant General JP Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST.

This strategic partnership seeks to leverage DST’s extensive R&D capabilities to address the evolving technological needs of the Armed Forces. By aligning defence technology research with national science initiatives, the collaboration is set to strengthen India’s self-reliance in critical technology domains.

Under the terms of the agreement, DST will provide access to its research infrastructure, expertise, and academic institutions to meet the specific requirements of the defence sector. The collaboration will focus on developing advanced military technologies, fostering innovation, and contributing to India’s long-term defence preparedness.

This partnership underscores the joint commitment of HQ IDS and DST to promoting cutting-edge research in line with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. The initiative also highlights a whole-of-nation approach towards enhancing the country’s defence capabilities, ensuring that India’s armed forces remain at the forefront of technological advancements.