DRDO showcases advanced semiconductor and chip technology at ESTIC 2026

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) participated in the 'Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave' (ESTIC 2026), held from 27 to 29 October, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. At this conclave, DRDO demonstrated its capabilities by displaying advanced semiconductor and next-generation chip technology.

According to a PIB report, the theme of the conclave was 'Creative Minds, Catalysing Science, Empowering Society'. The event was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The conclave was jointly organised by 12 ministries and departments under the guidance of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. Nobel laureates, global experts, and policymakers participated in the event.

DRDO led the session on 'Semiconductors and Next-Generation Chips' at the conclave. Dr. B.K. Das, Director General of Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) and distinguished scientist, chaired the session. Industry leaders, academic experts, and representatives associated with the indigenous chip development ecosystem joined the session.

As part of this session, a panel discussion was also organised, with Dr. B.K. Das as the moderator and Dr. Sheena Rani, Director General of Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Systems, present as a panellist. During the discussion, detailed deliberations were held on the developments in semiconductor technology, especially System-on-Chips (SoCs) for Artificial Intelligence (AI), intelligence on the silicon edge, and the changing landscape of microprocessors. Emphasis was also laid on how DRDO can assist industries and startups in developing innovative solutions and strengthening indigenous technology.

Various research programmes and achievements of the Ministry of Defence were displayed at DRDO's outreach stall at ESTIC 2026. This included indigenous technologies such as advanced communication systems, quantum technology prototypes, extreme cold-weather clothing, 'Prabala' women's full-body protector, passive and powered exoskeletons, portable hybrid energy management systems, high-power pulsed laser diodes, and scramjet engine technology.

In the semiconductor exhibition, two important areas developed by the Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi were displayed: Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) and Infrared Focal Plane Arrays (IRFPAs). The Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) based MMICs as well as Multi-Chip Modules (MCMs) showcased in the exhibition are used in strategic missions. This technology forms the foundation for advanced radar systems and Electronic Warfare (EW) applications.

On the other hand, IRFPAs act as the 'eyes' of tactical missiles, helping in target detection and tracking through Imaging Infrared (IIR) seekers. Various infrared technologies such as Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR), Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR), and Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) were included in this exhibition. In addition, scramjet engine technology, neuromorphic accelerators, Quantum Random Number Generators (QRNGs), Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), and laser proximity sensors were also displayed.

Semiconductor technology is critically important for national sovereignty and digital security. It plays an important role in strengthening the vision of a developed India and a self-reliant India by 2047. India aims to become a globally competitive and technologically self-reliant semiconductor powerhouse by 2047. This vision includes developing comprehensive capabilities such as chip design, fabrication, testing, and supply chain. India's strategic defence laboratories such as SSPL, GAETEC, STARC, and SCL have developed capabilities in niche technologies such as Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), Gallium Nitride (GaN), and MEMS.