The ordnance parachute factory is situated in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. It is a premier manufacturing unit established to produce military parachutes, safety equipment for the Indian armed forces and aerial delivery systems. The factory was established in 1941, operating under the umbrella of Gliders India Limited. Gliders India Limited is a defence public sector undertaking under the ministry of defence.
Strategic excellence: Carrying a legacy of excellence!
Originally, the facility was established as a modest repair facility for manned parachutes. Later, it grew into a strategic pillar of defence manufacturing capabilities.
Over time, the facility evolved well to support the nation in every major conflict, including the 1962 and 1971 Bangladesh Liberation war. Now, OPF ensures the operational readiness and stealth capabilities of armed forces in airborne operations.
History!
Previously, the ordnance parachute factory was managed directly under the Ordnance factory board. Later in October 2021, the facility underwent a major restructuring. Under the Government of India’s corporatisation reforms, OPF comes under the umbrella of Gliders India Limited. It is a government-owned defence public sector undertaking with its headquarters in Kanpur. The transition has been made to improve the operational efficiency and innovation in the factory.
Products produced at the facility!
The factory is producing an extensive range of specialised Parachute systems along with the related gear. This gear is specifically tailored for the disaster relief requirements and defence.
- A man carrying parachutes
They are highly engineered canopies for safe and controlled descents from varying altitudes.
- Supply drop and heavy drop parachutes
They are highly important for logistics in remote areas. These systems can be used to deliver heavy equipment with safety
- Pilot and Break parachutes
These are life-saving emergency equipment and drag chutes. These chutes are used to slow down the aircraft after landing.
- Combat clothing
Apart from the parachutes, the facility is also producing specialised military clothing, inflatable boats and floats used for bridging operations.
Technological advancements!
OPF has achieved a great milestone in aerospace and defence manufacturing by achieving a globally recognised AS9100D quality certification. The certification shows the commitment of the factory to error-free safety margins, which are important for the lives and defence assets.
Over the years, the factory has expanded its focus on modernising India’s airdrop capabilities. It works in collaboration with the premier research organisations, such as the defence research and Development Organisation. It has engaged in the manufacturing of advanced systems like the military combat parachute system. The facility has produced cutting-edge designs that improve the mobility and precision of airborne infantry.
Strategic significance!
Although OPF is primarily a military asset, its utility extends beyond just the battlefield. During the national crisis, natural disasters and other emergencies, the facility is dropping parachutes deployed by the Indian armed forces. They are used to drop relief material like food and medicine to the regions that are facing emergencies and are not able to access those supplies.
Conclusion!
Ordnance parachute factory is situated in the Kanpur cantonment. The facility remains the most critical manufacturing centre supporting India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Since the technology is upgrading in the facility, it is helping the soldiers to get a reliable delivery of aerial and survival systems.
