DRDO Invites Indian Industry to Develop Advanced UV Optics for Defence Applications

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated an industry participation process for developing specialised ultraviolet (UV) lens optics and associated opto-mechanical assemblies. The initiative forms part of the organisation’s continuing efforts to advance indigenous capabilities in sophisticated optical technologies used in defence research and development.

The requirement has been issued by DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi, through an Expression of Interest (EoI) published on the Ministry of Defence’s official eProcurement portal.

The development focuses on specialised optical components that combine ultraviolet light transmission with precision mechanical integration. Such technologies form an important part of advanced optical sensing and instrumentation systems.

DRDO Seeks Development of UV Lens Optics

The official EoI, bearing reference number SSPL/MMG/DPP/EOI/26-27/002, concerns the development of ultraviolet lens optics together with an opto-mechanical assembly.

Unlike ordinary optical systems designed primarily for visible light, ultraviolet optics must operate at shorter wavelengths. Their development requires careful selection of optical materials, precise surface fabrication and suitable mechanical arrangements.

An opto-mechanical assembly integrates optical elements with mechanical components that hold them in the required positions. Accurate alignment and mechanical stability are important for maintaining optical performance.

The proposed development therefore involves expertise in both optical engineering and precision mechanical design.

The Ministry of Defence’s procurement record identifies the requirement as an open tender under the Expression of Interest category, with SSPL serving as the issuing laboratory.

Solid State Physics Laboratory’s Expertise in Advanced Technologies

Located at Timarpur in Delhi, SSPL is one of DRDO’s specialised research laboratories working on advanced semiconductor materials, electronic devices and sensor technologies.

The laboratory undertakes research involving compound semiconductors, infrared detectors, laser diodes, microwave devices and other advanced technologies essential for defence applications.

According to DRDO’s official technology publications, SSPL has established research capabilities in semiconductor material development, device fabrication, sensor technologies and photonics.

Its research activities include infrared focal-plane array detectors, gallium nitride-based semiconductor devices and specialised sensing technologies.

The proposed ultraviolet optics development complements this broader research ecosystem by addressing another important area of optical engineering.

Importance of Ultraviolet Optics in Defence Technology

Ultraviolet optics operate in a region of the electromagnetic spectrum beyond visible violet light. Specialised optical materials and coatings are necessary because ordinary optical components may not provide the required transmission characteristics at ultraviolet wavelengths.

UV optical assemblies can support scientific measurement, optical detection and specialised sensing applications. Their performance depends on factors such as wavelength compatibility, transmission efficiency, optical alignment and mechanical stability.

DRDO’s official technology development portfolio includes several advanced electro-optical and sensor technologies. These range from specialised imaging systems and infrared detectors to ultraviolet radiation sensors.

The organisation has identified the development of highly sensitive ultraviolet radiation sensors among the technology areas associated with SSPL.

Such research contributes to the wider development of indigenous technologies for defence electronics and advanced instrumentation.

Expanding Indigenous Capabilities in Precision Optical Engineering

The development of sophisticated optical components requires specialised manufacturing capabilities, precision engineering and reliable testing processes.

By inviting industry participation in UV lens optics and opto-mechanical assemblies, DRDO is creating an opportunity for Indian enterprises with relevant technical expertise to contribute to advanced defence research.

The initiative is aligned with DRDO’s established approach of involving industry in technology development and strengthening domestic capabilities in strategically important technological areas.

Indigenous expertise in optical design, fabrication and mechanical integration can support the development of specialised components for future defence systems.

Such capabilities also contribute to India’s broader industrial ecosystem by encouraging collaboration between research laboratories and technology-oriented manufacturing enterprises.

Supporting India’s Defence Technology Self-Reliance

Advanced optical technologies are important components of modern defence research, particularly in areas involving sensors, imaging and precision instrumentation.

DRDO’s initiative to develop ultraviolet lens optics and associated mechanical assemblies represents another opportunity to strengthen India’s capabilities in these specialised fields.

The participation of domestic industry can help expand expertise in precision optical manufacturing while supporting the development of technologies required for indigenous defence systems.

Through research, engineering and industrial collaboration, India continues to strengthen the technological foundations necessary for greater self-reliance in advanced defence electronics and optical systems.

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References

1. Ministry of Defence — Government eProcurement Portal: DRDO-SSPL Expression of Interest: Development of Ultraviolet Lens Optics Along with Opto-Mechanical AssemblyTender Reference: SSPL/MMG/DPP/EOI/26-27/002. The accessible official record shows an original publication date of June 3, 2026. DefProc
2. Defence Research and Development Organisation: Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Systems — SSPL
3. DRDO Technology Focus: Advanced Semiconductor Material Technologies — April 2023
4. DRDO: Technology Foresight — Sensors and Detectors
5. DRDO: Technology Foresight — Electro-Optics

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