The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed its first high-value deep-tech project agreement under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. The partner is Zero mK India Private Limited, a start-up based in Rajasthan. The TDF scheme channels defence research funding to Indian industry, including start-ups, to develop advanced technologies domestically. Key facts: organisation – DRDO; scheme – Technology Development Fund; partner – Zero mK India Pvt Ltd (Rajasthan); significance – first high-value deep-tech project under the scheme.