Dr Jaiteerth R Joshi, an eminent scientist and key figure in India’s missile technology landscape, has been appointed as the Director General of BrahMos, the organisation responsible for the world-renowned supersonic cruise missile system. Dr Joshi, a Fellow of the Indian National Academy of Engineering (FNAE) and an Outstanding Scientist at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad, brings decades of leadership in missile design and development to his new role.
A Legacy in Missile Development
His career spans over three decades of contributions to India’s missile programme, with a focus on advancing the country’s self-reliance in defence technologies. Notably, he has played a pivotal role in the joint development of the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) and Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) systems. As Programme Director for the LRSAM, Dr. Joshi oversaw its design, development, and induction, enhancing the operational capabilities of critical platforms such as India’s Indigenous Aircraft Carrier.
His tenure has been marked by significant strides in indigenous technology development, with a transformative impact on India’s defence research ecosystem. Joshi has been instrumental in fostering collaboration across academia, industry, and research institutions, thereby strengthening India’s defence manufacturing capabilities and positioning the nation as a global leader in missile technology.
Skill Development and Research Leadership
In addition to his technical achievements, Joshi has been a prominent advocate for skill development in the defence research ecosystem. As an AICTE-INAE Distinguished Visiting Professor, he has mentored engineering students, helping to bridge the gap between academia and the defence sector. His efforts have cultivated a new generation of talent poised to drive innovation in defence technologies.
He has also been a leader in non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques. As Chairman of the Indian Society for Non-destructive Testing (ISNT) and the Indian Institute of Welding, he has trained and certified numerous professionals, advancing the expertise critical to India’s industrial and defence infrastructure.
Accolades and Professional Affiliations
Joshi’s distinguished contributions have been widely recognised. He has received numerous awards, including the DRDO’s Scientist of the Year Award, the Bharat Ratna Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya Award, and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the National Institute of Technology, Warangal. His achievements have also earned him Fellowships from prestigious organisations, including the Royal Aeronautical Society (London), Indian Institute of Metals, and Telangana Academy of Sciences.
Looking Ahead at BrahMos
As Director General of BrahMos, Joshi will lead an organisation central to India’s strategic deterrence capabilities. The BrahMos missile, developed in collaboration with Russia, is widely regarded as a technological marvel in supersonic cruise missile systems. Under his stewardship, the organisation is expected to further strengthen its research and development capabilities, align with India’s push for defence indigenisation, and explore avenues for export opportunities.
With his extensive experience and vision, Dr. Joshi is poised to elevate BrahMos to new heights, reinforcing its critical role in India’s national security and global defence partnerships.