Apollo Micro Systems Limited (AMSL) has been empanelled by the Indian Air Force (IAF) as the Prime Development Agency (PDA) for the Indigenous Precision Range Extension Kit (IPREK) programme, marking another important step in India’s drive to strengthen indigenous defence capabilities. The project will be undertaken under the Make-II category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, which promotes industry-led development of defence technologies through investments made by Indian companies.
The selection places Apollo Micro Systems among a select group of private defence firms entrusted with developing advanced military technologies for the armed forces. As the Prime Development Agency, the Hyderabad-based company will lead the design, development and prototyping activities for the IPREK programme in accordance with the operational requirements laid down by the Indian Air Force.
The Make-II framework has emerged as an important pillar of India’s defence modernisation strategy. Unlike traditional procurement programmes, the model encourages Indian industry to develop indigenous solutions using its own resources before they are evaluated by the armed forces for possible induction. The approach is intended to accelerate innovation, reduce dependence on imported equipment and create a stronger domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Apollo Micro Systems has steadily expanded its presence in India’s defence sector over the past several years. The company supplies a wide range of mission-critical electronic systems, avionics, communication equipment and defence subsystems to organisations including the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and various defence public sector undertakings. Its latest empanelment by the IAF further strengthens its position as a key contributor to indigenous defence programmes.
The company’s selection also reflects the increasing role of private industry in supporting the modernisation requirements of the Indian armed forces. As India continues to pursue the objectives of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, greater participation by domestic companies is expected to play a crucial role in developing advanced military technologies within the country.
Industry experts believe programmes executed under the Make-II category not only reduce reliance on foreign suppliers but also help build specialised technological capabilities among Indian defence manufacturers. Successful execution of such projects can eventually pave the way for future production orders and wider adoption across the armed forces.
For Apollo Micro Systems, the IAF’s decision represents a significant milestone that could further expand its footprint in the defence sector. As work on the IPREK programme progresses, the project is expected to contribute to India’s long-term vision of achieving greater self-reliance in defence production while strengthening collaboration between the armed forces and the domestic private industry.
With indigenous defence manufacturing receiving sustained policy support, initiatives such as the IPREK programme continue to reinforce the government’s commitment to building a robust defence industrial base capable of meeting the evolving operational needs of the Indian military.