National Data Centre for Test Data to be established in Bengaluru

Bengaluru will soon house a National Data Centre for Test Data Archival and Analysis, expected to be operational within the next two years. The facility will serve as a comprehensive repository for design records, failure mode analyses, prognostics, and other Research and Development (R&D) data generated across the country.

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The initiative, spearheaded by the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), aims to preserve critical technical knowledge that often gets lost when experts retire. By creating a structured archive, the centre is expected to support future innovation, enhance design reliability, and provide a framework for data sharing while safeguarding intellectual property rights. A national committee has already been constituted to oversee this effort.

Indian Army's focus on drone technologies

Alongside this development, the Indian Army is expanding its focus on drone technologies in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. The operation highlighted the vital role of unmanned systems in modern warfare, prompting the Army to accelerate the production and induction of drones. Drone labs and hubs are now being established at multiple military stations to boost domestic capability.

The Army has also launched initiatives to engage with private drone manufacturers to assess supply readiness. While initial surveys revealed constraints in immediate availability, efforts are underway to scale up production lines. The broader vision is to integrate drones into mainstream military operations, ensuring their presence across units for reconnaissance, surveillance, and tactical support.