The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed an indigenous nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane designed for high-pressure seawater desalination. This cutting-edge technology, engineered by DRDO’s Kanpur-based Defence Materials Stores and Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE), is set to transform water purification on Indian Coast Guard (ICG) vessels and beyond.
#DRDO (DMSRDE) has successfully developed indigenous 'nanoporous multilayered polymeric membrane' for high-pressure sea water desalination plant in Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships. pic.twitter.com/zalPtBgSI3
— IADN (@NewsIADN) May 15, 2025
The innovative membrane was developed in a record-breaking eight months, targeting a critical operational challenge—stability against chloride ions in saline water that typically degrade conventional membranes. By overcoming this barrier, the technology promises robust, efficient conversion of seawater into potable fresh water, a vital resource for defense maritime operations and coastal communities.
The membrane has undergone initial technical and safety trials aboard an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) of the ICG with resounding success, confirming its durability and performance under real-world conditions. The Indian Coast Guard will grant final operational clearance after completing an extensive 500-hour testing phase currently underway.
“This indigenous membrane not only secures the water needs of our defense vessels but holds immense potential for alleviating water scarcity in coastal regions after appropriate modifications,” stated a Defence Ministry spokesperson.
This milestone is a significant stride under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and “Make in India” mission, strengthening India’s technological sovereignty in critical infrastructure. DRDO’s pioneering journey, previously marked by homegrown defense marvels such as the Tejas fighter jet, Agni-Prithvi missile series, Pinaka rocket system, and Akash air defense system, now extends to water security — a resource as vital as defense itself.
With India facing escalating water shortages in many coastal areas, this breakthrough could parallel the impact of the Jal Jeevan Mission, offering a sustainable and reliable fresh water source. The DRDO’s nanoporous membrane technology promises not just to bolster India’s maritime defense capabilities but also to emerge as a beacon of hope for millions in water-stressed zones.
