Ummalaneni to head DRDO missiles and strategic systems

Hyderabad: Distinguished scientist and Director, RCI, Ummalaneni Raja Babu has been appointed as the director-general (missiles & strategic systems), DRDO, Hyderabad with effect from Thursday.

He replaces Dr B.H.V.S. Narayana Murthy following the latter’s superannuation.

Babu, a graduate in mechanical engineering from Andhra University, obtained his Master’s from IIT Kharagpur and MBA from JNTU.

He started his career with the Indian Air Force in 1988 and joined DRDO in 1995. In his 35-year aerospace career, he has worked on aircraft, helicopters and was a key member in the development of many missile systems. As the programme director (AD) at RCI, he was involved in the design, development and successful demonstration of ballistic missile defence system capabilities.

It was under his leadership that ‘Mission Shakti’, India's first anti-satellite missile test (A-SAT) was demonstrated successfully.

Babu is a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the ‘Path-breaking research & outstanding technology development’ award, Agni award, DRDO Scientist of the Year and Vigyan Pratibha Samman awards.