02-10-2007, 09:02 PM
The term DRDO has been used in a broad sense. In fact the point of reference is the track record of Indiaâs own capacity to develop defense systems. The first major disaster had been he HF-24 Maruit fighter bomber. We were never been able to develop a suitable power plant to make full utilization of this magnificent flying machine. The second is the 105 Field Gun. This got inducted to the Army but no further development has taken place and even today we are searching the world market for our entire artillery requirement. The Abott self propelled gun was developed but in field trials it failed the tests. The story of Arjun Tank is well known and needs no repetition. The same is the case with the Nag and Akash missile, we are not comfortable of depending on these locally made systems and so continue relying on imported items. Yes DRDO can take pride of the fact that it has successfully developed ration packs for use at high altitude by our soldiers. I have sighted only a few examples. The most important drawback has been the delay in development of the systems and in cost over runs. Both of these have ensured that we are heavily dependent on imports.