DRDO Collaborates with IIT Bhubaneswar for AI-Driven Surveillance

The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has collaborated with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar to set up advanced research and development in AI-driven surveillance and other defense projects.

The DRDO has been actively working towards enhancing its technological capabilities in response to evolving global defense dynamics. DRDO has chosen IIT Bhubaneswar as its academic partner to leverage the institution’s research capabilities in AI and machine learning as it recognizes the immense potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the case of modern warfare.

The collaboration between  DRDO and IIT Bhubaneswar is multifaceted, primarily focusing on electronic warfare, AI-driven surveillance, power systems, and radar systems. The institutions aim to develop sophisticated tools that can enhance the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations of India’s defense forces with their collaborative efforts.

What are the focus areas for this collaboration?

Some of the key focus areas of this strategic partnership include:

• AI-driven surveillance to improve the accuracy and efficiency of surveillance operations, thereby enhancing the detection and identification of threats.
• Development of advanced electronic warfare systems for the protection of national security interests.
• Innovate more reliable and efficient power systems that can support various defense equipment and operations in diverse environments.
• Enhance radar technology to provide more precise and longer-range detection capabilities.

“DRDO is releasing funds under Technological Development Funds up to Rs 10 crore to promote start-ups. Besides we have a plan to give Rs 1 crore to the passing out students to set up start-ups if they come up with a plan that is feasible. We are ready to promote such start-ups in large numbers. Lots of youngsters are entering the defense research field,” said Dr. G Satheesh Reddy, DRDO chairman and scientific advisor to the Union defense minister while addressing the partnership between IIT Bhubaneswar and DRDO.

Conclusion

The DRDO and  IIT Bhubaneswar collaboration is a testament to India’s growing emphasis on the indigenization of defense technology and highlights the role of academic institutions in national security.

This collaboration is expected to yield innovative technologies that will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of India’s defense forces.