By A Correspondent

New Delhi: In a major leap towards self-reliance in high-altitude aerial delivery systems, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully demonstrated its indigenously developed Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) through a combat free-fall jump from an altitude of 32,000 feet.

The test, executed by Indian Air Force (IAF) test jumpers, showcased the system’s superior reliability, precision, and advanced design capabilities, according to a Ministry of Defence statement.

The MCPS is now the only parachute system in operational use by the Indian Armed Forces capable of safe deployment above 25,000 feet, marking a critical technological advancement for India’s elite airborne units and special forces.

Developed jointly by DRDO’s Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra, and the Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL), Bengaluru, the system integrates several advanced tactical features.

These include a lower rate of descent, enhanced steering control, and compatibility with Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), India’s indigenous satellite navigation system. This integration ensures operational independence from foreign GPS services, minimizing the risk of interference or denial of service during missions.

The successful trial of the MCPS represents a significant step toward reducing India’s dependence on imported parachute systems. Its indigenous design and manufacturing will enable faster maintenance turnaround, extended service life, and assured availability during critical operations or wartime scenarios.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces, and Indian industry partners for the achievement, calling it a “remarkable milestone in India’s march toward defence indigenisation.” He highlighted that such developments reinforce the government’s vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) in the defence sector.

Department of Defence R&D Secretary and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat also commended the team behind the successful demonstration, terming it a “major step toward self-reliance in aerial delivery systems.”

With this success, DRDO has further strengthened India’s position as a technologically capable nation, ready to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare with indigenous innovation.

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