In a landmark achievement for India’s defence sector, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully tested the Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at an altitude of 32,000 feet. This test is a significant stride in advancing India’s indigenous aerial deployment technology.
The MCPS is designed to provide paratroopers with enhanced control during high-altitude descents and ensure precise landings in challenging environments. Its development was spearheaded by DRDO’s Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra, in collaboration with the Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) in Bengaluru.
Equipped with Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) support, the system ensures accuracy and reliability even under difficult operational conditions, making it suitable for modern combat missions. The design emphasizes durability and low maintenance, positioning it as a robust alternative to imported parachute systems.
Defence experts say the successful test demonstrates India’s growing self-reliance in defence technologies, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat highlighted that such innovations are critical for enhancing the operational readiness of India’s paratroopers and strengthening the nation’s defence infrastructure.
With this achievement, the IAF and DRDO continue to expand India’s strategic capabilities, combining high-altitude performance with indigenous technological expertise.