The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested an indigenously developed Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) at an altitude of 32,000 ft, marking a major milestone in India’s defence self-reliance and aerial delivery capabilities.
According to the Ministry of Defence, this achievement makes the MCPS the only parachute system currently in operational use by the Indian Armed Forces capable of deployment above 25,000 ft. The successful test was carried out by Wing Commander Vishal Lakhesh, Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), Master Warrant Officer R J Singh and Master Warrant Officer Vivek Tiwari, demonstrating the system’s efficiency, reliability, and advanced tactical design.
The MCPS was developed collaboratively by DRDO’s Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra, and the Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL), Bengaluru. It incorporates several enhanced features, including a lower rate of descent, superior steering capabilities, and accurate navigation, enabling paratroopers to safely exit aircraft, deploy parachutes at predetermined altitudes, and land precisely at designated zones.
A key feature of the system is its compatibility with India’s indigenous satellite navigation system, NavIC, ensuring operational freedom without susceptibility to external interference or denial of service, even in hostile environments.
The Defence Ministry highlighted that the success of the MCPS paves the way for induction of fully indigenous parachute systems, offering advantages such as reduced turnaround time for maintenance, longer service life, and decreased dependency on foreign equipment during conflicts.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the armed forces, and industry partners, describing the test as a “significant milestone” for India’s indigenous defence capabilities. Meanwhile, Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, hailed the achievement as a major step towards self-reliance in aerial delivery systems.
The MCPS is expected to enhance the operational effectiveness of Indian paratroopers, ensuring safe, precise, and reliable high-altitude combat deployment in future operations.
