By Sanjoy Gorh Founder & Editor at FinbuzzIndia
The Aeronautical Development Agency has officially started the DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 process for engineering graduates across multiple disciplines. This recruitment offers 111 Project Assistant I vacancies on a tenure basis for candidates looking to work on advanced defence and aerospace projects in India.
Online registration has started on 6 August 2026, and interested candidates can register through the official ADA recruitment portal before the 13 August 2026 deadline. The recruitment is open for engineering graduates from several disciplines including Mechanical, Computer Science, Electronics, Electrical, Aeronautical, Civil and Metallurgy Engineering. According to the official notification, the initial tenure will be two years, with the possibility of extension based on project requirements and performance.
If you are planning to build your career in the defence research sector, here is everything you need to know about the DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026.
DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) |
| Recruitment Name | DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 |
| Advertisement Number | ADV 138/2026 |
| Post Name | Project Assistant I |
| Total Vacancies | 111 |
| Application Mode | Online Registration |
| Registration Starts | 6 August 2026 |
| Last Date | 13 August 2026 |
| Job Location | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| Initial Tenure | 2 Years |
| Official Website | ADA |
About Aeronautical Development Agency
The Aeronautical Development Agency, commonly known as ADA, is one of India’s leading defence research organizations working under the Ministry of Defence. The agency plays an important role in the design and development of advanced military aircraft and aerospace technologies.
Working as a Project Assistant provides young engineers with an opportunity to contribute to high technology defence projects while gaining valuable industry experience in a professional research environment.
DRDO ADA Project Assistant Vacancy 2026
A total of 111 tentative vacancies have been announced across various engineering disciplines.
The discipline wise vacancies are as follows.
| Engineering Discipline | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering | 43 |
| Electronics and Communication Engineering | 20 |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering | 20 |
| Computer Science Engineering | 15 |
| Aeronautical Engineering | 10 |
| Civil Engineering | 2 |
| Metallurgy Engineering | 1 |
| Total | 111 |
The official notification also mentions equivalent engineering branches that are acceptable for different disciplines. Candidates should carefully verify their eligibility before registering.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must possess First Class qualifications in the relevant engineering discipline.
Depending on the category of applicant, the acceptable qualifications include BE or BTech, ME or MTech from IIT or NIT, or BSc with MSc and valid GATE or NET score for specified disciplines. Some categories also require relevant work experience. The detailed eligibility differs slightly between engineering branches and should be checked in the official notification.
Selection Process
The selection process depends on the educational qualification of the candidate.
Candidates possessing valid GATE scores, ME or MTech from IIT or NIT, or other specified qualifications may be called directly for an interview.
Candidates applying under other eligible categories may first undergo a written test. Those shortlisted in the written examination will be invited for the interview.
The final selection process may therefore include:
- Application Shortlisting
- Written Test where applicable
- Personal Interview
- Document Verification
According to the notification, the written examination will follow the GATE syllabus and will include negative marking for incorrect answers. Candidates are advised to bring a scientific calculator for the written test.
Salary
Selected candidates will receive an attractive monthly stipend.
Candidates possessing only a BE or BTech degree will receive Rs 31,000 per month plus House Rent Allowance.
Candidates belonging to other eligible qualification categories will receive Rs 37,000 per month plus House Rent Allowance according to applicable rules.
Age Limit
The maximum age limit is 28 years as on the closing date of registration.
Relaxation in the upper age limit is available for candidates belonging to reserved categories according to Government of India rules.
Job Tenure
The appointment will initially be for two years.
Based on satisfactory performance and project requirements, the tenure may be extended for another two years, one year at a time, after assessment by the Review Committee. However, this engagement does not guarantee permanent employment or regular absorption into ADA.
Important Dates
Candidates should keep these important dates in mind.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 6 August 2026 |
| Online Registration Starts | 6 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Register | 13 August 2026 |
| Tentative Written Test Dates | 16 August, 23 August or 30 August 2026 |
The final schedule for the written test and interview will be published on the ADA website depending on the number of registered candidates.
How to Apply
Candidates can complete their registration through the official ADA recruitment portal before the last date.
After completing online registration, applicants must report for the written test or interview with the duly filled application form along with original certificates and self attested copies of all required documents.
Candidates should also carry their Aadhaar Card for identity verification.
Documents Required
Applicants should keep the following documents ready.
- Recent passport size photograph
- Educational certificates
- Marksheets
- Experience certificates if applicable
- Valid GATE or NET scorecard wherever required
- Category certificate if applicable
- Aadhaar Card
- No Objection Certificate for Government employees
All original documents must be produced during verification.
Important Instructions
Candidates should remember a few important points before appearing for the recruitment process.
Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply.
Registration is necessary for planning the written test and interview process. However, candidates must also bring the completed application form along with supporting documents on the day of reporting.
Electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart watches and pen drives will not be allowed inside the examination venue.
No TA or DA will be provided for attending the written test or interview.
Candidates are advised to regularly visit the ADA website for updates regarding examination dates and interview schedules.
This Recruitment Is Important
The DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 provides an excellent opportunity for engineering graduates to begin their careers in one of India’s premier defence research organizations.
Working with ADA allows candidates to gain practical exposure to advanced aerospace technologies, defence projects and research driven engineering work. The attractive stipend, structured work environment and opportunity to contribute to nationally significant projects make this recruitment highly competitive.
Since the application window is open for only a short period, eligible candidates should complete their registration well before the closing date to avoid last minute issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.How many vacancies are available in DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026?
A total of 111 tentative vacancies have been announced.
Q2.What is the last date to apply?
The last date for online registration is 13 August 2026.
Q3.What is the age limit?
The upper age limit is 28 years, with relaxation for reserved categories according to Government rules.
Q4.What is the monthly salary?
Selected candidates will receive either Rs 31,000 plus HRA or Rs 37,000 plus HRA, depending on their qualification category.
Q5.Where will the selected candidates be posted?
The recruitment is for projects based in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Conclusion
The DRDO ADA Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 is an excellent career opportunity for engineering graduates seeking experience in India’s defence and aerospace sector. With 111 vacancies, competitive monthly stipends, multiple engineering disciplines and the chance to work on advanced research projects, this recruitment is expected to attract a large number of applicants. Interested candidates should carefully read the official notification, verify their eligibility and complete the online registration before 13 August 2026.