(MENAFN- Live Mint) New Delhi: India has successfully tested an indigenously developed military combat parachute system (MCPS) from an altitude of 32,000 feet, marking a major leap in the country's defence capabilities and self-reliance efforts, the Defence Ministry said on Wednesday.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO ), the MCPS is now the only parachute system in operational use by the Indian armed forces capable of deployment above 25,000 feet, the ministry stated in a press release.

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The parachute system was designed and developed by DRDO's Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra and the Defence Bioengineering and Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL) in Bengaluru. It underwent a successful combat free-fall jump from 32,000 ft, executed by test jumpers of the Indian Air Force, showcasing the indigenous system's advanced design, efficiency and reliability, officials said.

According to the ministry, the MCPS incorporates several enhanced tactical features, including a lower descent rate and superior steering capabilities, allowing paratroopers to safely exit aircraft, deploy parachutes at pre-set altitudes, navigate accurately and land in designated zones.

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A notable feature of the system is its compatibility with Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) - India's indigenous satellite navigation system - which ensures freedom of use without dependence on foreign networks and protects it from interference or denial-of-service by adversaries.

The success of the MCPS“opens doors for the induction of fully indigenous parachute systems,” the ministry said, as quoted by PTI.

The ministry added that the homegrown system will also reduce turnaround time for maintenance and repair compared to imported equipment, ensuring maximum utility during its lifetime and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers during conflicts or wars.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the armed forces and industry partners on the achievement, calling it a“significant milestone” in strengthening India's indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem.

DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat lauded the team behind the project, describing the development as a“major step towards self-reliance” in the field of aerial delivery systems.

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