The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested its Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) at an altitude of 22,000 feet in Ladakh. The high-altitude trial took place at the Nyoma-Mudh Drop Zone in Leh district, one of the world’s highest-altitude drop zones. The test was conducted in extreme conditions, with the temperature recorded at −15°C.

The MCPS has been designed and developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), a DRDO laboratory. The system is intended for military operations that require personnel to parachute into difficult and high-altitude areas. The latest trial aimed to assess its performance under extreme conditions.

Three ADRDE test jumpers carried out the operation. They included Wing Commander Rahul Jha, the chief test jumper, MWO R J Singh, VM(G), and MWO Vivek Tiwari. The team jumped from 22,000 feet above mean sea level (AMSL) while operating in temperatures as low as −15°C.

“Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) designed and developed by ADRDE, DRDO was successfully tested at one of the world’s highest altitudes Drop Zones (Nyoma, Mudh DZ),” the DRDO said in a post on X.

The jumpers used the MCPS along with other systems during the trial. These included an indigenous para computer, an oxygen system and specially designed jumpsuits. The equipment supported the jumpers during the high-altitude descent and helped them operate in the challenging environment.

“ADRDE test Jumpers Wg Cdr Rahul Jha Chief Test Jumper, MWO R J Singh, VM(G), MWO Vivek Tiwari executed the jump from 22,000 feet AMSL wherein the temperature was −15°C and utilised MCPS and all other sub-systems including indigenous para computer, oxygen system & jumpsuits. The parachute was deployed at 20,000 ft, with a safe landing at 13,700 ft,” it added.

The parachute was deployed at 20,000 feet during the descent. The jumpers then completed the operation and landed safely at an altitude of 13,700 feet. The successful landing marked an important part of the trial, given the extreme altitude and low temperature involved.

The test also assessed the overall reliability and operational usefulness of the MCPS in high-altitude conditions. Such systems are important for military operations in mountainous and difficult terrain, where conventional methods of deployment may not always be suitable.

The DRDO said the trial showed the system’s effectiveness, reliability and tactical employability in extreme high-altitude conditions. The organisation also highlighted the use of indigenous equipment during the operation.

“The successful trial demonstrated the efficacy, reliability and tactical employability of MCPS in extreme high-altitude conditions, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in critical defence technologies.”

The successful test adds to India’s efforts to develop and strengthen its own defence systems and reduce dependence on foreign technology. The trial also demonstrates the ability of Indian-developed parachute and support systems to function in demanding operational environments.