IAF-IIT Madras MoU Marks Major Step in Atmanirbhar Defence Vision
- IAF SDI partners with IIT Madras for indigenous airborne communication systems.
- Focus on secure, encrypted, and scalable defence networks.
- Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat and strengthens India’s defence tech capabilities.
The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Software Development Institute (SDI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Madras to jointly design and develop an indigenous digital communication system for airborne applications. The collaboration is seen as a major step towards realizing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance in defence technology and strengthening India’s strategic capabilities, officials said on Monday.
The MoU was signed by Air Vice Marshal R Guruhari, Commandant of SDI, Prof V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, and Dr M J Shankar Raman, CEO of Pravartak Technologies Foundation. Through this partnership, the IAF aims to develop advanced algorithms for networking and encryption in collaboration with IIT Madras.
These systems are critical for secure, reliable, and high-performance data exchange in dynamic airborne environments, which are essential for modern military operations and networked warfare. By developing this technology indigenously, the collaboration seeks to reduce reliance on imported systems, enhance technological sovereignty, and improve the operational efficiency of India’s defence forces.
Air Vice Marshal R Guruhari described the initiative as a visionary step toward achieving self-reliance in critical defence communication technologies. “By combining academic excellence with operational expertise, we are paving the way for innovative, indigenous solutions that will significantly enhance the capabilities of our airborne forces and contribute to a stronger Atmanirbhar Bharat”, he said.
Prof V Kamakoti emphasized the synergy between academia and defence institutions. “IIT Madras is proud to contribute its expertise in advanced communication technologies and cybersecurity to create robust, indigenous solutions. This initiative aligns perfectly with Atmanirbhar Bharat, empowering our nation with cutting-edge homegrown technologies that strengthen national security”, he added.
The joint effort will leverage the IAF’s domain expertise at SDI and IIT Madras’ world-class research facilities. Key focus areas include advanced encryption protocols, secure data transmission, resilience against threats, scalability for airborne networks, and integration with existing defence systems. Officials said the project is expected to produce deployable prototypes that support the IAF’s mission through technological advancement.
This partnership is part of IIT Madras’ broader engagement in defence research and development, including collaborations in aerospace, AI, and materials science. It also reinforces the Government of India’s focus on indigenisation in defence procurement, contributing to the growth of India’s defence industrial base.
