Latest News on ADC-150
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have conducted a successful maiden test trial of an indigenously designed and developed Air Droppable Container with a 150 kg payload capacity, called ‘ADC-150.’ The trial was conducted on April 27, 2023, from an IL 38SD aircraft off the coast of Goa, to enhance the naval operational logistics capabilities and provide quick response to meet the requirement of critical engineering stores to ships under distress, which are deployed more than 2,000 kms from the coast.
This new technology reduces the requirement of ships to come close to the coast to collect spares and stores, thereby reducing the risk of piracy and other maritime security challenges. Three DRDO laboratories, namely the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam; Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra; and Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru, have been involved in the development of ADC-150 container.
The crucial flight clearance certification was given by Regional Center for Military Airworthiness (RCMA), Kanpur, headed by Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), Bengaluru. The successful test trial of ADC-150 is a significant achievement for the DRDO and Indian Navy, which will enhance their operational readiness and logistics capabilities.
This new technology is a significant milestone in the development of indigenous defence equipment and will further strengthen India’s defence capabilities. This trial demonstrates India’s commitment to becoming self-reliant in defence production and reducing its dependence on foreign suppliers.
-Secretary, Department of Defence R&D & Chairman, DRDO
A boost for the Indian Navy
In conclusion, the successful test trial of ADC-150 is a remarkable achievement for DRDO and Indian Navy, showcasing India’s capabilities in the defence sector. This technology will enhance the logistics capabilities of the Indian Navy, enabling them to respond quickly to critical engineering stores’ requirements in a timely and efficient manner. The development of such indigenously designed and developed equipment will further strengthen India’s position in the global defence industry and promote the ‘Make in India’ initiative.