DRDO to launch explosive detection and swine flu diagnostic kits at DefExpo

An explosive detection kit (EDK), and a swine flu diagnostic kit are among over 70 products and technologies developed for defence applications with potential civilian applications that have been identified for commercialisation under the DRDO-FICCI  Accelerated Technology Assessment Commercialisation (ATAC) programme.

These two products will be launched during the DefExpo India 2012 at a special function on Saturday.

The explosive detection kit, developed by Pune-based High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, is capable of quickly detecting and identifying even traces of explosives. The handy kit is ideally suited to be carried and used everywhere.

The swine flu diagnostic kit, developed by DRDO unit at Gwalior, is capable of detecting H1N1 virus within an hour. The kit does not need sophisticated instruments and can even be used in villages where electricity is not available, an official release said today.

DefExpo will also provide a platform for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to identify areas for collaboration and initiate dialogue with DRDO in areas of mutual interest for joint development as partners.

DRDO has amply demonstrated capability to design, develop and realise highly complex multidisciplinary weapon platforms for the Army, Navy and the Air force. These systems are among the most extensively evaluated systems in harsh environmental conditions, meeting stringent quality requirements of our services. The production value of products inducted / under induction is more than Rs1,40,000 crore, effectively translating to creation of about two million jobs in the country, the release said.