Technology Transfer for Military Steel
BSL Partners with DRDO for Defence-Grade Steel Production: Bokaro Steel Limited (BSL) has signed a formal technology transfer agreement with the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) under DRDO. The collaboration enables large-scale production of specialised steel sheets designed for strategic defence applications. This partnership strengthens India’s domestic capability in high-performance military materials.
Static GK fact: DRDO was established in 1958 to achieve self-reliance in defence technologies.
The licensing agreement allows BSL to manufacture DMR 249A steel sheets, which are engineered to meet the extreme durability and strength requirements of military platforms. These sheets are suitable for both naval and land-based systems, ensuring operational reliability in harsh conditions.
Boosting Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
BSL executives emphasized that the agreement aligns with India’s national efforts to expand indigenous defence production. The PSU aims to continue developing special-grade steels to meet evolving requirements of the armed forces and government agencies.
Static GK fact: Bokaro Steel Limited was incorporated in 1964 and is a key PSU under the Ministry of Steel.
The collaboration represents a step towards self-reliance in critical defence materials, reducing dependency on imports for high-performance steel. The initiative also contributes to Make in India objectives in the strategic sector.
Critical Naval Applications
DMR 249A steel has been under joint development by BSL and DMRL since 2007. Over 46,500 tonnes of this grade have already been produced for deployment in major naval vessels, including aircraft carriers, stealth frigates, anti-submarine warfare corvettes, and next-generation warships.
Static GK Tip: Naval modernisation is a key component of India’s defence strategy, with indigenous platforms increasingly featuring domestic high-performance materials.
The licence grants BSL non-exclusive rights to manufacture the steel sheets, allowing multiple production lines to support strategic requirements. This ensures continuous availability of critical materials for the Indian Navy and other defence applications.
Expanding Material Capabilities
The agreement, signed in Hyderabad, reinforces India’s goal of securing advanced defence-grade materials through domestic industry. By leveraging DRDO’s technological expertise, BSL is now equipped to support long-term naval modernisation and enhance overall defence preparedness.
Static GK fact: India ranks among the top 5 countries in Asia for naval strength and indigenous warship production.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
BSL Partners with DRDO for Defence-Grade Steel Production:
| Topic | Detail |
| Organisation | Bokaro Steel Limited (BSL) |
| Partner | Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), DRDO |
| Steel Grade | DMR 249A |
| Agreement Type | Technology Transfer |
| Production Start | Post-2025 agreement |
| Steel Usage | Naval vessels, land platforms |
| Quantity Produced | Over 46,500 tonnes |
| Strategic Objective | Indigenous defence material production |
| Location of Signing | Hyderabad |
| Collaboration Since | 2007 |
