The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully conducted in-flight release trials of the indigenous Air Droppable Container (ADC-150) from a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft off the coast of Goa.
The trials were carried out between 21 February and 1 March 2026, during which four successful releases were conducted under different extreme operational conditions.
Enhancing Naval Logistics at Sea
The ADC-150 is an indigenous aerial delivery system designed to carry and deliver a payload of up to 150 kilograms. The container can be air-dropped to naval ships operating far from the coast, enabling rapid delivery of critical stores, equipment, and medical supplies during emergencies.
This capability significantly improves the Indian Navy’s operational logistics and rapid response ability in blue-water operations, especially when ships are deployed in remote ocean areas.
Developed by Multiple DRDO Laboratories
The project involved collaboration between several DRDO laboratories and agencies:
- Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam – Nodal laboratory for the project
- Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra – Developed the parachute system
- Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), Bengaluru – Provided flight clearance and certification
- Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad – Provided instrumentation support during trials
Induction Expected Soon
The ADC-150 system was developed and qualified within a short timeframe to meet the operational requirements of the Indian Navy’s P-8I aircraft.
With all developmental flight trials completed successfully, the system is expected to be inducted into service soon, strengthening India’s indigenous defence logistics and maritime operational capabilities.
