India expands private role in missile production, plans 1,500 km-range strike capability

The Centre is moving to expand the role of Indian private companies in conventional missile manufacturing, with the government identifying firms for the production of systems developed using Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) technologies.

The move follows Defence minister Rajnath Singh's decision to allow private sector participation in the conventional missile segment through the transfer of technology (ToT) route.

Among the key systems being considered for private production is the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACRM), with a reported range of 1,000-1,500 km. The Pralay quasi-ballistic tactical missile, with a range of 150-500 km, is also part of the government's plans, Hindustan Times reported.

Several missile systems on production list

Request for proposals have already been issued to Indian private companies for Astra Mark I and Mark II beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles through the ToT route.

Per the HT report, companies including ICOMM, Hyderabad, Bharat Forge and Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited, along with public sector firms Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, are expected to participate in manufacturing several other missile and weapons systems.

The list includes the Next Generation Anti-Radiation Missile, Rudram-II, the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile, Long Range Glide Bomb and Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon.

The government is also looking at private-sector production of various air-defence and naval missile systems, including the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile, Very Short Range Air Defence System and different short- and medium-range anti-ship missiles.

Push for wider defence manufacturing

The expansion of private participation is being seen as part of a broader effort to increase domestic defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.

According to the information provided, the private sector is already supplying around 50 subsystems that are integrated into missiles. The latest move would expand that involvement to the production of complete missile systems through technology transfer.

Boost to India’s defence industry

The opening of the conventional missile segment to private companies is also being viewed as a possible precursor to greater private-sector participation in other areas of missile manufacturing.

The government expects increased participation from private firms and their ancillary industries to raise production capacity and strengthen India's domestic defence industrial base.

The move is also aligned with the Centre's broader 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' push, with greater involvement of Indian companies expected to expand the country's military manufacturing ecosystem.