Airbornics Defence & Space Pvt, the defence division of JCBL Group, successfully tested its indigenously developed 28-ft Heavy Air Drop System at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on 17 February 2026. The testing was conducted by the Army Airborne Training School (AATS), marking a meaningful step forward under the ‘Make in India’ initiative and reinforcing India’s progress towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The 20T Heavy Air Drop System was designed and manufactured by JCBL (ADSL) in collaboration with the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), a DRDO laboratory. Building on earlier controlled trials using standard 12–24 ft platforms and dummy loads, the latest testing represents a significant technological advancement with the introduction of a 28-ft platform and parachute configuration. Notably, this trial marked the first use in India of a 28-ft platform with a twin 28-ft extractor configuration and a four-point link system for strategic payload deployment, transitioning from earlier standard configurations to an advanced heavy drop operational system.

The system enables aerial deployment of cargo and combat platforms, including BMP and other mechanised vehicles, and is compatible with C-17 and C-130 aircraft, which form the backbone of India’s heavy-lift air logistics capability. It facilitates controlled extraction and safe landing of heavy equipment across diverse terrain, including high-altitude and remote locations. Unlike earlier trials using dummy loads, this test involved the deployment of an actual approximately 15-tonne BMP armoured personnel carrier (APC) under near-realistic conditions, enabled by a twin 28-ft extractor configuration designed for heavier strategic loads. This capability supports rapid deployment of heavy combat platforms in operationally critical areas where ground mobility is limited.

The trial also demonstrated enhanced cross-platform deployment capability, enabling aerial delivery of combat platforms across different aircraft classes. This strengthens operational readiness by ensuring rapid movement of heavy equipment to forward areas.

Rishi Aggarwal, Managing Director, JCBL Group, said, “The successful validation of this system is a proud milestone under the ‘Make in India’ initiative and a true reflection of India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Contributing to the strength of the Armed Forces through a completely indigenous system is a matter of immense pride for the Group, and we are grateful for DRDO (ADRDE)’s continued trust and support.”

Raj Kumar Pandey, Director and CEO, JCBL (ADSL), further emphasised that “Every element of the system, from the platform to the extractor, main parachute systems, and all associated subsystems, has been designed, engineered, and manufactured entirely in India.”

With the Heavy Drop System now officially deployed with the Indian Army for the first time, this achievement establishes JCBL (ADSL) as the only Indian company to indigenise this technology in partnership with DRDO and advance it into a strategic payload-ready platform configuration through progressive system enhancements.

The Group remains committed to strengthening India’s defence preparedness, advancing indigenous innovation, and supporting the Armed Forces through manufacturing excellence.