Renowned defence scientist U Raja Babu is DRDO's new 'missile man'

HYDERABAD: Ummalaneni Raja Babu, distinguished Scientist and Director of RCI, has been appointed Director General, Missiles and Strategic Systems, DRDO, Hyderabad, effective June 1, 2023.

U Raja Babu was chosen as Director General, Missiles and Strategic Systems (DG, MSS) upon the retirement of Dr. BHVS Narayana Murthy, DS and Director General, Missiles and Strategic Systems (DG, MSS) on May 31, 2023.

U Raja Babu holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Andhra University, a master's degree from IIT Kharagpur, and an MBA from JNTU. He began his career in Indian Air Force in 1988 and joined the DRDO in 1995.

He worked on aircraft, helicopters, and the development of numerous missile systems over his 35-year professional aerospace career. As RCI's Programme Director, AD, he provided the impetus for the design, development, and successful demonstration of ballistic missile defence system capabilities. "Mission Shakti," India's first anti-satellite missile test (A-SAT), was successfully demonstrated under his leadership.

As Director Research Centre Imarat(RCI), he was responsible for the development of numerous essential technologies and mission mode projects, as well as the development of improved missile avionics for all tactical, ATGMs, strategic, cruise missiles, and armed forces weapon systems.

U Raja Babu’s ingenious efforts and contributions to defence applications brought him many recognitions. He was conferred with Path-breaking Research and outstanding technology development award for successfully leading the demonstration of Mission Shakti.

U. Raja Babu also received the Agni award for excellence in self-reliance, the DRDO Scientist of the Year, and the Vigyan Pratibha Samman Award. He is a fellow Institution of Engineers (IE) and life member of many professional societies.