- Proof and testing charges waived for iDEX, TDF, Make and other MoD development projects
- SOP lists proof ranges and test labs of DRDO, GQA agencies and the three Services
- Arbitration clause replaced by a simpler Conciliation Agreement Clause
- Three-day slot per quarter reserved at proof ranges for developmental projects
- Charges calculation and payment procedure now written into the SOP
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a revised Standard Operating Procedure for using Ministry of Defence proof ranges, field firing ranges and test facilities. Indian defence firms are the target users.
Waiver for development projects
Proof and testing charges will no longer apply to iDEX, TDF, Make and other MoD developmental projects. The move is meant to promote self-reliance in defence.
The SOP also lists the proof ranges, field firing ranges and laboratory test facilities run by DRDO, Government Quality Assurance agencies and the three Services. Industry can use these facilities.
Simpler process and faster disputes
The revised SOP sets out how proof and testing charges are calculated and paid, where they still apply. This cuts paperwork for companies.
The arbitration provision in the existing SOP has been replaced with a Conciliation Agreement Clause. The government says this will settle problems faced by domestic firms faster.
Dedicated slots for industry projects
Proof ranges will reserve a three-day slot every quarter. The slot is for proof firing of developmental projects sponsored by the government, including iDEX, TDF and Make projects.
Projects started on the industry’s own initiative also get these slots.
The SOP aims to make access to ranges and test facilities simpler, more transparent and friendlier to industry. It supports indigenisation, innovation and defence exports.
