The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully conducted four in-flight release trials of the indigenous Air Droppable Container (ADC-150) from a Boeing P-8I Poseidon aircraft off the coast of Goa.
The trials were carried out between February 21 and March 1, 2026, marking a significant milestone in strengthening India’s naval logistics and operational capabilities.
Indigenous System Designed for Rapid Supply Delivery
The ADC-150 is an indigenously developed air-droppable container capable of carrying payloads up to 150 kilograms.
The system is designed to help the Indian Navy deliver critical supplies such as equipment, essential stores, and medical assistance to naval ships deployed far from the coastline.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the container will enable rapid response to ships operating in deep-sea environments or in distress, where conventional supply methods may not be feasible.
Development Led by DRDO Laboratories
The project was led by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory in Visakhapatnam, which served as the nodal laboratory for the programme.
Several other DRDO laboratories contributed to the system’s development:
- Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment developed the parachute system
- Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification provided flight clearance and certification
- Defence Research and Development Laboratory provided instrumentation support during the trials
System Ready for Induction into Indian Navy
The Ministry of Defence said the ADC-150 system was developed and qualified within a short timeframe to meet the operational requirements of the Indian Navy.
With the successful completion of all developmental flight trials, the indigenous system is expected to be inducted into naval operations in the near future.
Officials say the new capability will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to support ships deployed in remote maritime zones and strengthen India’s maritime logistics network.
