Pune: The Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) [R&DE(E)], a premier DRDO laboratory, is celebrating its 63rd Raising Day, marking six decades of excellence in defense engineering and technological advancements.

As part of the celebrations, R&DE(E) organized a series of cultural and sports events throughout the week, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among its personnel. A 5 km walkathon, held on February 2, 2025, saw enthusiastic participation, promoting health and fitness as employees walked to and from Dighi Hills.

Established on February 9, 1962, R&DE(E) has been at the forefront of developing state-of-the-art engineering solutions for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The laboratory has played a pioneering role in Antarctic expeditions, particularly in setting up and maintaining the Maitri Base Station.

A key milestone in R&DE(E)’s history was its contribution to the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). The laboratory successfully developed and produced critical ground systems for various missile projects, leading to the deployment of several essential defense platforms, including:

• Multi-span Mobile Bridging System (Sarvatra)

• Modular Bridging System

• Mountain Foot Bridge

• Composite Sonar Dome

• Mine Field Marking Equipment (MFME) Mk-II

• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

• Launcher Systems for Land and Underwater Applications, including Akash, MRSAM, and BrahMos missiles

Pioneering Technological Advancements

R&DE(E) is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from a systems engineering establishment to a technology-focused research center.

To support this transition, the organization has structured its research into six specialized verticals:

1. Center for Systems & Technologies for Advanced Robotics (C-STAR)

Focuses on robotic mules and humanoid development

Research in biomimetic robots, swarm intelligence, AI & ML applications, and cognition-based robotics

2. Composite Research Center (CRC)

Specializes in composite materials for bridges, armored hulls, sonar domes, aircraft radomes, and airframes

Key focus areas include structural health monitoring, stealth technology, and fatigue analysis in composites

3. Centre for Electromagnetic System Research (CEMSR)

Dedicated to Electromagnetic Launch Systems

Working towards developing combat aircraft launchers and aircraft arresting systems

4. Advanced Technology Research Center (ATRC)

Focused on land mine detection, smart structures, and underground blast mitigation

5. Center for Renewable Energy & Storage Technology (CREST)

Engaged in wireless power transmission, energy harvesting, and compact energy storage systems

6. Center for Strategic and Tactical Systems (CSTS)

Leads the development of launchers and ground support systems for strategic and tactical missile programs