New Delhi: Defence industry access to proof ranges has become easier after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the use of Ministry of Defence (MoD) proof ranges, field firing ranges, and test facilities.
The new SOP aims to provide a simpler, more transparent, and industry-friendly process for Indian defence companies, startups, MSMEs, and innovation projects to test and validate their products using government facilities. The move supports India’s goals of defence indigenisation, innovation, and exports.
Rajnath Singh Approves Revised Defence SOP
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a revised SOP governing how Indian defence companies can access and use MoD proof ranges, field firing ranges, and laboratory testing facilities.
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The updated SOP provides a detailed but simplified procedure for the allotment and utilisation of these facilities. It also includes standard formats and documentation requirements to reduce complexity for industry users.
What Are Proof Ranges And Field Firing Ranges
Proof ranges are specialised facilities where weapons, ammunition, and defence equipment are tested under controlled conditions to verify their safety, reliability, and performance.
Field Firing Ranges
Field firing ranges are used for live firing and operational testing of defence systems, including artillery, missiles, ammunition, and other military equipment. These facilities are critical for product development, certification, and eventual induction into the armed forces.
Major Changes Introduced In The Revised Defence SOP
One of the biggest reforms is the waiver of proof and testing charges for developmental projects under:
- iDEX (Innovations For Defence Excellence)
- TDF (Technology Development Fund)
- Make Projects
- Other Ministry Of Defence developmental programs
The government says this step will support innovation and strengthen India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Easier Documentation And Payment Process
The revised SOP clearly explains how testing charges will be calculated and paid wherever applicable. This will reduce paperwork and simplify the approval process for defence companies seeking access to testing facilities.
Comprehensive List Of Available Facilities
The SOP now includes a consolidated list of:
- DRDO proof ranges
- Field firing ranges
- Laboratory testing facilities
- Government Quality Assurance agency facilities
- Testing infrastructure of the three armed services
This makes it easier for companies to identify suitable facilities for their projects.
Dedicated Testing Slots Reserved For Innovation Projects
The Ministry has reserved a three-day slot every quarter at proof ranges for developmental projects. This dedicated window will support:
- Government-sponsored projects
- iDEX projects
- TDF projects
- Make projects
- Indigenous industry-led development programs
The decision is expected to reduce waiting times and accelerate testing schedules for Indian defence innovators.
Faster Dispute Resolution For Defence Companies
The revised SOP replaces the earlier arbitration mechanism with a simpler Conciliation Agreement Clause. According to the Ministry, this change will help resolve disputes more quickly and improve ease of doing business for indigenous defence manufacturers.
How The New Defence SOP Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The revised framework aligns with the government’s broader objectives of:
- Defence indigenisation
- Innovation promotion
- Startup participation
- MSME growth
- Defence exports
- Technology development
The SOP is designed to help Indian companies move products from development to testing and deployment more efficiently.
Impact of Defence SOP On Startups And MSMEs
Access to government testing infrastructure has often been a challenge for smaller defence companies. The simplified SOP, fee waivers, dedicated testing slots, and easier documentation are expected to benefit startups, MSMEs, and private defence manufacturers working on indigenous technologies. Recent Defence Ministry initiatives have also focused on increasing participation from startups and smaller firms in defence R&D and production.
Why Defence SOP Matters
India’s defence sector is rapidly expanding, with increasing focus on indigenous manufacturing and exports. By simplifying access to testing infrastructure, the Ministry of Defence aims to reduce development timelines, encourage innovation, and help Indian companies bring advanced defence technologies to market faster.
FAQs
Projects under iDEX, TDF, Make, and other Ministry of Defence developmental programs will receive a waiver on proof and testing charges.
The revised SOP provides a simplified process for Indian defence companies to access Ministry of Defence proof ranges, field firing ranges, and testing facilities.
The new framework reduces costs, simplifies procedures, provides dedicated testing slots, and improves access to government testing infrastructure, helping startups develop products faster.
