Bengaluru: The Indian Air Force’s Software Development Institute (SDI) has signed a memorandum of understanding with IIT Madras to jointly design and develop a homegrown digital communication system for use in aircraft, reports Business Standard.
An official statement issued on Monday said the collaboration is a key step towards strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and improving the country’s strategic capabilities.
The agreement was signed by Air Vice Marshal R Guruhari, Commandant of SDI; Professor V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras; and Dr M J Shankar Raman, Chief Executive Officer of Pravartak Technologies Foundation.
Under the partnership, the Indian Air Force will work with IIT Madras to develop advanced networking and data protection systems for airborne communication. Officials said such systems are essential to ensure secure, dependable and fast exchange of information in changing air combat environments, which are critical for modern military operations.
The project also aims to reduce dependence on imported communication systems by developing the technology within the country. Officials said this would support technological independence and improve the overall efficiency and readiness of India’s defence forces.
Air Vice Marshal R Guruhari said the collaboration brings together academic research and operational experience to build indigenous solutions for critical defence communication needs. He said the effort would help strengthen the capabilities of airborne platforms while supporting the broader goal of self-reliance.
Professor V Kamakoti said the partnership highlights the growing cooperation between academic institutions and the armed forces. He said IIT Madras would contribute its expertise in communication technologies and digital security to help create reliable and locally developed systems that support national security.
The joint project will draw on the IAF’s operational knowledge at SDI and IIT Madras’ research infrastructure. Officials said the focus areas include secure data transfer, protection against cyber and electronic threats, network flexibility for airborne use and compatibility with existing defence platforms.
The initiative is expected to lead to working prototypes that can be deployed to support the IAF’s operational requirements through technology-driven solutions.
Officials added that the collaboration is part of IIT Madras’ wider involvement in defence research, including work in aerospace, artificial intelligence and advanced materials. They said it aligns with the government’s push for indigenisation in defence procurement and will help strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
