Indian MPs visit DRDL lab NSTL.
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence Visits NSTL: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence, chaired by Radha Mohan Singh, undertook an on-the-spot study visit to the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam on January 20, 2026, to review critical research and development efforts supporting the Indian Navy’s underwater warfare and maritime security capabilities.
During the visit, the committee was given a comprehensive overview of a wide range of indigenously developed underwater weapons, platforms and associated technologies designed by NSTL, a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The members witnessed demonstrations and displays of advanced torpedo systems, including the Advanced Light Weight Torpedo (ALWT), Varunastra heavy-weight torpedo and the Electric Heavy Weight Torpedo (EHWT). They were also briefed on naval mine technologies such as the Multi-Influence Ground Mine (MIGM) and the Propelled Bomb Ground Mine (PBGM).
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In addition, the committee reviewed decoy systems like the Self-Firing Decoy (SFD) and Torbuster, along with advanced projects such as SMART (Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo), High Endurance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (HEAUV), SWARM technologies, underwater systems, underwater vehicles and a range of other associated underwater weapon technologies.
A key highlight of the visit was a live demonstration of hydrodynamic testing conducted at NSTL’s Sea-keeping and Manoeuvring Basin test facility. The committee observed testing on a scaled-down model of a ship, which showcased the laboratory’s capabilities in evaluating ship behaviour, stability and manoeuvrability under simulated sea conditions. Members of the delegation appreciated the sophisticated infrastructure and scientific expertise supporting these trials.
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INS Vagsheer.
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The committee lauded NSTL’s sustained R&D efforts in developing underwater platforms, weapons and enabling technologies that directly address the operational requirements of the Indian Navy. Particular appreciation was expressed for the laboratory’s contributions to strengthening India’s capabilities in the strategically vital areas of Maritime Domain Awareness and Underwater Domain Awareness.
The delegation was welcomed by Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr Samir V Kamat; Director General (Naval Systems & Materials), Dr R V Hara Prasad; and Director, NSTL, Dr Abraham Varughese. Senior scientists and officials from NSTL were also present during the interactions.
Dr Abraham Varughese briefed the committee on the ongoing R&D activities at NSTL, highlighting the laboratory’s close collaboration with industry partners and academic institutions to accelerate innovation and indigenisation. He also outlined NSTL’s future technology roadmap, focusing on next-generation underwater warfare systems, autonomous platforms and advanced sensing technologies.
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Members of the Parliamentary Standing Committee expressed satisfaction with the progress made by NSTL and acknowledged its critical role in enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence technologies. The visit underscored the importance of sustained investment in defence research and innovation to ensure the Indian Navy remains equipped to meet evolving maritime security challenges in the region and beyond.
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