In a landmark achievement for India’s defense self-reliance, the DRDO successfully conducted a combat free-fall jump at 32,000 feet using its indigenously developed Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) on October 14, 2025. The test was executed by Indian Air Force test jumpers Wing Commander Vishal Lakhesh, VM (G), Master Warrant Officer R J Singh, and Master Warrant Officer Vivek Tiwari. Developed by DRDO’s Agra and Bengaluru labs, the MCPS features enhanced steering, a lower descent rate, and integration with India’s NavIC satellite system, ensuring operational autonomy. It is now the only operational parachute system in the Indian Armed Forces capable of deployment above 25,000 feet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the success as a major milestone in indigenous defense technology, emphasizing its role in reducing reliance on foreign systems and enabling rapid maintenance during conflicts, thereby strengthening India’s strategic airborne capabilities.