Will try to achieve self-reliance in weapon systems: Avinash Chander

NEW DELHI: DRDO Chief Avinash Chander today said he would work towards achieving 75 per cent self-reliance in terms of weapon systems for the country which depends heavily on foreign sources for its military hardware requirements.

"We are looking forward to further growth in indigenous capabilities and achieve a goal of 75 per cent self-reliance. Today the ambiance is right, with the maturity of Indian industry and our own research and development capabilities," he said soon after assuming his new office.

"We have taken major programs in multiple areas. Our focus is on performance and timely deliveries of critical programmes like LCA, artillery guns and surface to air missiles systems," he said.

On the importance of involving Indian industry in enhancing self-reliance in defence sector, Chander said, "DRDO is committed to harness industry capability and create right environment for involving Indian industry in major programmes."

He said the private industry should focus on increasing its research and development capabilities, "so that DRDO can focus on higher and higher technologies and support industry in realising requirements of our armed forces".

Chander was appointed as the chief of DRDO yesterday by the government and he will be in office for three years.

He is credited for being the chief architect of the Indian long-range missile programme, including the Agni-series missiles.