The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar has formalised a groundbreaking Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Indian Army to launch an M.Tech programme in Defence Technology, exclusively designed for officers of the Armoured Corps Centre & School (ACC&S). This initiative marks the first time any IIT in India has established a comprehensive defence technology partnership with the armed forces, integrating research, applied innovation, and military operational expertise to bolster India’s defence capabilities.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, underscored the significance of this collaboration: “This collaboration marks a paradigm shift in how India approaches defence technology education. By bringing together the intellectual rigor of IIT Ropar with the operational excellence of the Indian Army, we are creating a unique model that will produce defence technology leaders capable of driving India’s self-reliance in critical defence sectors. This is our contribution to Viksit Bharat 2047.”
The M.Tech (Defence Technology) programme was developed through joint efforts between ACC&S and IIT Ropar. The curriculum is designed to focus on applied learning, hands-on research, and innovation-driven problem-solving, preparing officers to become technology leaders within the armed forces. Upon successful completion, officers will receive an M.Tech (Defence Technology) degree from IIT Ropar, equipping them to lead technological modernisation initiatives across armoured formations and contribute to indigenisation efforts in defence manufacturing.
Beyond the academic programme, the MoA establishes a framework for joint research and development initiatives to tackle technological challenges in India’s defence sector. Key focus areas include Next-Generation Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) Technologies, Advanced Armament Solutions, and New Materials and Technologies for Armoured Platforms.
The MoA was signed by Maj Gen Vikram Varma, AVSM, VSM, Commandant of ACC&S, and Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar. The inaugural session was attended by Lt Gen S S Mahal, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd), Professor of Practice at IIT Ropar; Shri Virbhadra Singh Rawat, Professor of Practice at IIT Ropar; Prof. Sarang Gumfekar, Associate Dean (PG and Research) at IIT Ropar; Brig Kaushal Panwar, Commander SOTT; Col Tarun Badola, Senior Instructor, HQ SOTTT; and faculty and staff from ACC&S and MIC&S.
The IIT Ropar-Indian Army partnership is expected to serve as a template for similar collaborations across the country, aimed at addressing national security challenges while fostering innovation ecosystems. Research outcomes from this collaboration are anticipated to benefit the armed forces and extend to civilian applications such as autonomous vehicles, advanced manufacturing, and materials engineering, supporting technology transfer from laboratory to field.
This initiative not only strengthens India’s defence capabilities but also aligns with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing self-reliance and technological advancement. By bridging the gap between academic research and military application, this partnership is poised to set new standards in defence technology education and innovation.