Why in news?
On 16 October 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a high‑altitude free‑fall test of its indigenously developed Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS). Indian Air Force test jumpers leapt from an altitude of 32,000 feet, demonstrating the system’s capability to safely insert paratroopers from extreme heights.
Background
The MCPS has been jointly developed by DRDO’s Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra and the Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) in Bengaluru. Traditional combat parachutes used by Indian forces have mostly been imported. Developing a home‑grown system reduces dependence on foreign suppliers and allows customisation for Indian conditions.
The MCPS is a ram‑air parachute featuring a rectangular canopy that can glide and turn. It is designed for high‑altitude, high‑opening (HAHO) and high‑altitude, low‑opening (HALO) jumps where troops exit aircraft far from the target and glide silently to their drop zones. The 32,000‑foot test evaluated the system’s stability, steering and compatibility with new navigation aids.
Key features
- High‑altitude capability: Suitable for jumps above 25,000 feet, allowing special forces to infiltrate from long distances. The system performed reliably during the 32,000‑foot test.
- Improved control: The ram‑air canopy provides better glide ratio and steering than traditional round parachutes. This enables paratroopers to reach pinpoint landing zones and avoid detection.
- Reduced descent rate: The design ensures a gentle landing with a descent rate of around 4.5 m/s, minimising injury risk even with heavy loads.
- Integration with NavIC: The parachute harness includes an indigenous navigation system based on India’s NavIC satellite constellation. An automatic activation device opens the reserve parachute if the main canopy fails or if the jumper is incapacitated.
- Payload range: The system can safely carry soldiers weighing between 80 kg and 100 kg along with their combat gear.
Significance
- Operational advantage: MCPS enables Indian special forces to undertake covert insertions in mountainous or contested areas by launching from beyond radar coverage.
- Self‑reliance: Developing the parachute domestically aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. Indigenous design also allows easier maintenance and future upgrades.
- Enhanced safety: Lower descent rates and automatic reserve deployment improve safety for paratroopers during complex missions.
- Platform for future innovations: DRDO plans to integrate oxygen supply systems, improved harnesses and wearable sensors into future versions.
Conclusion
The successful test of the MCPS marks a milestone in India’s efforts to equip its armed forces with modern, indigenous systems. By combining advanced aerodynamics with navigation and safety features, DRDO has delivered a parachute that enhances operational effectiveness and reduces dependence on foreign equipment.
Source: PIB