DRDO and Indian Navy Conduct Successful Trials of ADC-150 Air-Droppable Container from P-8I Aircraft
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Navy, has successfully executed in-flight release trials of the indigenous Air Droppable Container (ADC-150) using a P-8I maritime patrol aircraft near the coast of Goa.
The testing took place between February 21 and March 1, 2026, involving four releases under a range of extreme operational scenarios.
The ADC-150 is a homegrown aerial delivery system intended to transport and release a load weighing up to 150 kilograms. It can be deployed to naval vessels situated far from the mainland, facilitating the swift delivery of essential supplies, equipment, and medical aid in emergencies.
This new capability significantly enhances the Indian Navy's operational logistics and quick-response functionalities during blue-water missions, especially when ships are positioned in isolated oceanic regions.
The project was accomplished through the collaborative efforts of various DRDO laboratories and agencies:
| Laboratory/Agency | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam | Nodal laboratory for the project |
| Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra | Developed the parachute system |
| Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), Bengaluru | Provided flight clearance and certification |
| Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad | Provided instrumentation support during trials |
The ADC-150 system was developed and certified within a short timeframe to align with the operational needs of the Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft.
Following the successful completion of all developmental flight trials, the system is anticipated to be inducted into service shortly, bolstering India's indigenous defence logistics and maritime operational capabilities.
