Research & Development Establishment (Engineers)

Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) (R&DE(E) or R&DE(Engrs)) is a laboratory of the Defence Research & Development Organization. Located in Pune, Maharashtra, India. its primary function is development of mobility equipment for Indian Army Corps of Engineers.

The Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) became operational on February 9, 1962. The laboratory's primary mission is to create cutting-edge engineering solutions for the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force. In the Indian Antarctic Programme, the lab played an important role, especially in the establishment and upkeep of the Maitri Research Station.

One of the significant turning point in R&DE(E)'s history was its involvement in the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. Many vital defense platforms, including the Sarvatra Multi-span Mobile Bridge System, Modular Bridging System, Mountain Foot Bridge, Composite Sonar Dome, Mine Field Marking Equipment Mk-2, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, NBC collective-protection systems, and launching systems for land and underwater applications, including Akash, MRSAM, and BrahMos missiles, were delivered as a result of the laboratory's successful development and production of critical ground systems for various missile projects.

Since 2017, R&DE(E)'s electro-mechanical engineering division has been working on the launch vehicle, an element of the ground system that was effectively put into operation during Mission Shakti, as part of the Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme.

Makarand G Joshi took over as the Director of Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) on June 1, 2023, succeeding Pradeep Kurulkar, who was detained by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad in May 2023 for allegedly giving sensitive information to Pakistani Intelligence. Makarand G. Joshi was instrumental in making R&DE(E) a leader in composite materials. The laboratory possesses proficiency in micro-electro-mechanical systems and robotics. For the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, R&DE(E) is focusing on composites, shaping methods, radar-absorbent materials, and radar-absorbent paint.

A technology transfer agreement for modular bridging systems with lengths ranging from 14 to 46 meters was signed by R&DE(E) and Indian private firm NIBE Limited in June 2025. For the ten-year technology transfer to produce Modular Bridging Systems in India, NIBE Limited would pay ₹3.76 crore (US$440,000). Complete technical expertise and testing procedures will be supplied by R&DE(E).

R&DE(E) is changing from being a systems engineering organization to a technology-focused research center starting in 2025. The laboratory has divided its research into six distinct verticals.

Ceramic matrix composites and carbon fiber silicon carbide are the next priority area, according to DRDO Chief Samir V. Kamat, because of their necessity in aero engine programs and hypersonic missiles.