DRDO signs first high-value deep-tech contract with startup for quantum project

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed its first high-value deep-tech project agreement with a start-up under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme for the indigenous development of a 20 millikelvin (mK) dilution refrigerator for quantum applications.

The agreement was signed in New Delhi between the Director, TDF, and Zero mK India Private Limited, a start-up based in Alwar, Rajasthan.

The project is the first high-value agreement under the Rs 500 crore corpus approved by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for deep-tech and cutting-edge projects.FOCUS ON QUANTUM TECHNOLOGY

A dilution refrigerator is a specialised cryogenic system capable of achieving extremely low temperatures in the millikelvin range. Such ultra-low temperatures are essential for the operation and testing of several quantum computing platforms and associated quantum technologies.

The indigenous development of a 20 mK-class dilution refrigerator is aimed at strengthening India's capabilities in quantum technology, advanced cryogenics and strategic technologies.

The project also aligns with the National Quantum Mission and is expected to contribute to the development of a self-reliant, quantum-ready ecosystem.

By developing the technology domestically, the project will help reduce dependence on imported cryogenic infrastructure and strengthen India's domestic quantum technology ecosystem.

Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the industry partner and all stakeholders associated with the project. He expressed confidence that the partnership would set an important precedent for future DRDO-industry collaborations in emerging technology domains.

Defence Secretary and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh also congratulated the teams involved and wished them success in achieving the project objectives.

Director General, Micro Electronic Devices & Computational System and Cyber Security (DG MCC), Director General, Technology Management (DG TM), Director, Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), and other stakeholders were present at the signing.

The project is being monitored, mentored and supported by the Director, SSPL, and his team.- Ends

Shivani Sharma is a broadcast journalist who specialises in Defence reporting. She happens to be the first Indian journalist to reach the world’s highest motorable top at Umling La and also to cover the southern most strategic tip of the country at Nicobar.