Director General

Shri Ummalaneni Raja Babu, DS & Director, RCI, Hyderabad appointed as DG (MSS), Hyderabad with effect from 01 June 2023. Shri U. Raja Babu, Distinguished Scientist and Programme Director, AD serving as Director, Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, DRDO, Hyderabad w.e.f. 23 Aug 2021.

Shri Raja Babu is widely known for his significant contributions as Programme Director, Area Defence (AD) and technology leadership in the design, development and successful demonstration of Ballistic Missile Defence capabilities. As one of the main architects, he led “Mission Shakti”, India’s first Anti-Satellite Missile Test (ASAT) demonstrating the space defence capabilities of India based on BMD technologies.

He started his career with Indian Air Force and subsequently joined DRDO in 1995 and played a decisive role in the development and induction of enhanced range Prithvi missile system. Presently, as Director and Programme Director, he is spearheading Research Centre Imarat (RCI), an avionics laboratory of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex steering the design, development and delivery of Avionics and wide range of missiles & guided weapon systems for defence and aerospace applications in India. His sustained R&D contributions have been transformative for indigenization of critical Missile and Aerospace technologies and has strengthened defence industry eco-system in the country.

As a team leader he has been conferred with Path Breaking Research & Outstanding Technology Development Award for successfully leading the demonstration of Mission Shakti. Other prestigious awards conferred on Shri Raja Babu includes Agni Award for Excellence in Self-reliance, DRDO Scientist of the Year and PMA Project Leader Award. He is a Fellow of Institution of Engineers and Life Member of many professional societies.