The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a portable sea water desalination system called Sea Water Desalination System, or SWaDeS, to meet drinking water needs in field conditions. The device is designed for military use in remote and coastal areas, and can also support civilian needs in freshwater-stressed regions.
Key Features of SWaDeS
SWaDeS can be operated manually or with an engine. The manual version is light enough for carriage by a single person. It can provide emergency drinking water for a group of 10-12 personnel during patrols or deployment in isolated terrain.
Military and Civilian Applications
The system is suitable for naval operations, coastal installations and inland locations with saline water sources. It is also relevant for areas such as Pangong Tso in Ladakh, where troops are deployed in difficult conditions and fresh water is limited. The technology may help civilian users in water-scarce coastal and inland areas.
Purification Capacity
The engine-operated version can purify sea water with salinity of 35,000 milligrams per litre of total dissolved solids to below 500 mg/L TDS. This makes the water fit for drinking standards. It can serve the needs of about 20-25 soldiers.
DRDO’s Wider Water Technology Work
DRDO has developed several water purification systems for different terrains and contamination levels. These include household purifiers for removing arsenic, iron and manganese, and a Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear Water Purification System for contaminated environments. Some systems are fixed, while others are transportable or vehicle mounted.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026