Q1. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was established in which of the following years by amalgamating existing scientific establishments of the Indian military?
Defence and Space Technology in India: RAS Prelims MCQs
195 RAS Prelims MCQs on defence and space technology in India cover DRDO, the missile programme, nuclear policy and space missions. The founding year of DRDO, its motto, the five missiles of the IGMDP, Agni-V, the Nuclear Doctrine and the major ISRO missions are asked as facts, and each explanation connects the system to its purpose.
Practice questions based on the RPSC RAS Prelims syllabus. They follow the exam pattern but are not past-paper questions.
Showing 1–10 of 195 questions
Q2. Match the following DRDO laboratories in List I with their respective locations in List II:
| Laboratory | Location |
|---|---|
| A. Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) | i. Jodhpur |
| B. Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) | ii. Hyderabad |
| C. Advanced Numerical Research and Analysis Group (ANURAG) | iii. Chennai |
| D. Defence Laboratory (DL) | iv. Hyderabad |
Explanation
Defence metallurgical research and advanced numerical analysis are conducted in Hyderabad. Meanwhile, the development of combat vehicles is primarily centered in Chennai at the specialized establishment dedicated to armored platforms. Research involving various defense laboratory functions takes place in Jodhpur. These strategic locations allow for focused scientific advancements across diverse geographical hubs supporting Indian military requirements and technological innovation.
Q3. Arrange the following major defense and space milestones in chronological order of their inception or occurrence:
I. Establishment of DRDO
II. First Pokhran Nuclear Test
III. Establishment of ISRO
IV. Launch of IGMDP
Which of the above is the correct chronological sequence?
I. Establishment of DRDO
II. First Pokhran Nuclear Test
III. Establishment of ISRO
IV. Launch of IGMDP
Which of the above is the correct chronological sequence?
Explanation
The strategic timeline of Indian scientific achievements began with the establishment of the defense research organization in 1958. This was followed by the formal creation of the national space agency in 1969. Subsequently, the first peaceful nuclear explosion occurred in 1974. Finally, the integrated guided missile development program was officially launched in 1983 to achieve self-sufficiency in missile technology.
Q4. Which of the following is the official motto of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)?
Explanation
The official motto of this premier defense research agency translates to the concept that the source of strength lies in science. This philosophy underscores the commitment to leveraging advanced scientific research and technological innovation to bolster national security. It reflects the organization’s core mission of empowering the Indian armed forces with cutting-edge indigenous systems through rigorous and dedicated scientific exploration.
Q5. Identify the incorrect statement regarding the role and functioning of DRDO.
Explanation
While this organization plays a vital role in national security by advising the government on military logistics and equipment, its primary focus is on defense technology. It collaborates with academia and private industry to develop strategic systems for the armed forces. Designing commercial passenger aircraft is outside its mandate, as such tasks fall under civil aviation and aeronautics development entities.
Q6. What is the primary function of the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme executed by DRDO?
Explanation
This specific financial mechanism is designed to foster a culture of innovation by providing crucial support to micro, small, and medium enterprises. By encouraging startups to engage in the design and development of military systems, it aims to reduce dependence on foreign imports. This initiative aligns with the national objective of building a robust and self-reliant indigenous defense industrial ecosystem.
Q7. Consider the following pair: System: NETRA Type of Technology: Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System Is this pair correctly matched?
Explanation
This airborne early warning and control system represents a significant milestone in indigenous defense technology. Mounted on an aircraft, it provides crucial surveillance, tracking, and command capabilities to the air force. By detecting incoming threats and managing aerial battles, it acts as a force multiplier. This platform enhances national security through its ability to monitor vast airspaces and coordinate tactical responses.
Q8. Which of the following best defines a Technology Demonstration Vehicle in the context of DRDO’s project classifications?
Explanation
This classification refers to a specialized experimental platform designed to test and prove the feasibility of advanced scientific concepts. Before a weapon system undergoes mass production or induction into the military, these vehicles allow researchers to identify potential flaws and optimize performance. They serve as essential steps in the development cycle, ensuring that final military hardware meets rigorous operational and technical standards.
Q9. DRDO’s spin-off technologies are those that:
Explanation
Scientific advancements originally created for defense applications can often be repurposed for broader public use. These adaptations provide innovative solutions in sectors such as healthcare, disaster management, and telecommunications. By leveraging high-end military research, society gains access to sophisticated tools and materials. This process maximizes the return on national research investments and contributes to the overall technological progress of the country.
Q10. Among the following, which is not a direct responsibility of the Department of Defence Research and Development (DoDRD)?
Explanation
This department is responsible for formulating research programs and providing technical guidance to the defense leadership. It manages numerous laboratories focused on modernizing military equipment through scientific advancement. However, the actual operational and tactical control of soldiers and units during active conflict remains the duty of the military services themselves. Scientific organizations support the defense infrastructure without exercising direct combat command.Answer key for these questions
| Q | Correct answer |
|---|---|
| 1 | (c) 1958 |
| 2 | (a) A-ii, B-iii, C-iv, D-i |
| 3 | (b) I, III, II, IV |
| 4 | (d) Balasya Mulam Vigyanam |
| 5 | (c) Nodal agency for designing commercial passenger aircraft. |
| 6 | (b) To support MSMEs and startups in achieving self-reliance in defence technology. |
| 7 | (d) Yes, it is an indigenous AEW&C system developed by DRDO. |
| 8 | (a) A prototype used to validate complex new technologies before formal weapon system integration. |
| 9 | (c) Are military-developed technologies adapted for civilian and societal benefits. |
| 10 | (a) Tactical command of the Armed Forces during wartime. |
Key facts from Defence and Space Technology in India
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation was established in 1958; its motto is Balasya Mulam Vigyanam.
- The five core missiles of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme are Prithvi, Agni, Trishul, Nag and Akash, remembered as PATNA.
- The IGMDP was reinforced by the limits of the Missile Technology Control Regime; Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam is called the Missile Man of India.
- Agni-V is an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile; the Prithvi is a surface-to-surface battlefield missile.
- India formally adopted its Nuclear Doctrine in 2003.
- The Atmanirbhar Bharat reforms opened the space sector to private participation.
Frequently asked questions
How many RAS Prelims practice MCQs are there on Defence and Space Technology in India?
This page has 195 practice MCQs on Defence and Space Technology in India (Science and Technology). Each has the correct answer, and most have an explanation.
When was DRDO established?
In 1958. It is the research and development wing of the Ministry of Defence, and its motto is Balasya Mulam Vigyanam, meaning the source of strength is science.
What does PATNA stand for?
The five core missile systems of the IGMDP: Prithvi, Agni, Trishul, Nag and Akash. The programme was led by Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and launched in 1983.
What is the category of the Agni-V missile?
An Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), with a range of more than 5,000 km. It can carry a payload of around 1,500 kg, and it can carry multiple warheads, which makes it a strategic weapon.