Innovations for Defence Excellence

On May 15, 2023, Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the Ministry of Defence's (MoD) flagship initiative, achieved remarkable milestones in the realm of defence innovation.

These milestones signify the substantial progress and success of iDEX in fostering innovation and collaboration in the defence sector.

Key Points

Objective of the SPRINT Initiative: The SPRINT initiative unveiled 75 challenge statements for the Indian industry in July 2022.
Its objective is to introduce at least 75 technologies and products into the Navy by August 2023.
Development of Gas-Based Compact Micropropulsion System: InspeCity is developing a gas-based compact micropropulsion system. The system can be integrated with other satellites, including the cubesat swarm under Mission DefSpace.
Role and Importance of Cubesats: Cubesats are modular, low-cost, and easy-to-manufacture small satellites. They are crucial for launch-on-demand capabilities and serve purposes such as imagery, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and communication.
Compact Micropropulsion System for Cubesat Maneuvering: Precise alignment and maneuvering of cubesats require a compact micropropulsion system for orbit correction.
SPRINT (Navy) Contract with Siliconia Technologies: The 100th SPRINT (Navy) contract was exchanged with Siliconia Technologies Private Limited. Siliconia Technologies won the challenge to develop a lightweight ASIC-based communication system using software-defined antenna for satellite communication in various orbits.
Multiple Independent Receiver and Transmitter Sources: Siliconia's solution provides multiple independent receiver and transmitter sources. These sources are crucial for phased-array radars used in satellite tracking.

Indian Navy Receives First Survey Vessel (Large) "Sandhayak" from GRSE

On 4^th Dec, The Indian Navy takes delivery of the first Survey Vessel (Large) ship, "Sandhayak," constructed at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, as part of a contract signed on 30 October, 2018.

Key Points

Design and Construction: Sandhayak and its three counterparts are designed and constructed in compliance with the rules of the Indian Register of Shipping Classification society by GRSE, Kolkata.
The vessels are specialized for comprehensive coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys, determining navigational channels, and collecting oceanographic and geophysical data for both defence and civil applications.
Operational Scope: The ships are equipped for operations within maritime limits up to the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and extended continental shelf. In a secondary role, they serve limited defence functions and can function as hospital ships during wartime or emergencies.
Technical Specifications: With a displacement of approximately 3400 tons and an overall length of 110 meters, Sandhayak is equipped with advanced hydrographic tools, including a Data Acquisition and Processing System, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle, Remotely Operated Vehicle, DGPS Long-range positioning systems, and Digital side-scan sonar.
Construction Timeline: The keel for the ship was laid on 12 Mar 19, and it was launched on 05 Dec 21. Sandhayak underwent extensive trials in both harbour and at sea before its official delivery to the Indian Navy on 04 Dec 23.
Indigenous Contribution: Sandhayak boasts an indigenous content exceeding 80% by cost, aligning with the "Aatma Nirbhar Bharat" initiative.
The vessel's delivery underscores the collaborative efforts of numerous stakeholders, MSMEs, and the Indian industry in strengthening the nation's maritime capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region, even amidst challenges such as COVID and geopolitical factors during its construction.

Guided Flight Trials of Indigenous Anti-Ship Missile

In a significant stride towards bolstering self-reliance, on 21^st Nov, the Indian Navy collaborated with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to achieve successful Guided Flight Trials of the first domestically developed Naval Anti-Ship Missile.

Key Points

Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM): DRDO gears up to test the long-awaited LRASM, poised to extend the Navy's capabilities in ship-based missile systems.
The missile may boast a range surpassing 500 kilometres, exceeding the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile's range of 350-400 kilometres.
Previous Milestones: In May 2022, India successfully tested its first indigenously crafted anti-ship missile categorized as 'Naval Anti-ship Missile-short range' (NASM-SR).
Weighing 380 kilograms with a 55-kilometer range, NASM-SR is deployable from attack helicopters.
MRSAM Validation: The Indian Navy validates the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) during firing from INS Visakhapatnam in March.
Developed jointly by DRDO and Israeli Aerospace Industries, MRSAM demonstrates the ability to engage Anti-Ship Missiles, emphasizing air defence capabilities.
About MRSAM: Designed to hit multiple targets within a 70-kilometer range, MRSAM integrates advanced components such as Combat Management System, Mobile Launcher Systems, Long Range Radar, and Rocket Motor.
The joint venture between DRDO, Israeli Aerospace Industries, and Indian defence industry partners underscores the nation's commitment to technological advancements.

'Amini' Joins Indian Navy Fleet

Recently, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) launched 'Amini,' the fourth vessel in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC) series, at Kattupalli in Tamil Nadu. Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, Chief of Materiel, presided over the launch ceremony.

Key Points

Strategic Significance: Named 'Amini,' the ship symbolizes the strategic maritime importance of Amini Island in Lakshadweep, situated about 400 km west of Kochi.
Vessel Specifications: The ASW SWC ships are 77m long, with a displacement of 900 tons, boasting a maximum speed of 25 knots and an endurance of approximately 1800 NM.
Indigenous Shipbuilding Strides: Launched within a year of the third ship, this marks significant progress in indigenous shipbuilding, contributing to the vision of AatmaNirbhar Bharat.
Contract: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with GRSE on April 29, 2019, for constructing eight ASW SWC ships.
Four are built at GRSE, Kolkata, and the remaining are subcontracted to L&T Shipbuilding, Kattupalli, for hull and part outfitting.
Mission Capabilities: Part of the Arnala class, these ships will replace the Abhay class ASW Corvettes, designed for anti-submarine operations in coastal waters, Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), and Mine Laying Operations.
Delivery Timeline: The first ship from the project is expected to be delivered in early 2024.
Indigenous Content: With over 80% indigenous content, the ASW SWC ships contribute to large-scale defence production within the country, fostering employment and enhancing capabilities.

Russia to Supply Igla-S Anti-Aircraft Missiles to India

Recently, Russia officially signed a contract to deliver Igla-S hand-held anti-aircraft missiles to India, allowing for the licensed production of the Igla system within the country.

Key Points

Igla-S Anti-Aircraft Missiles Contract Signed: Russia has inked a contract to supply Igla-S hand-held anti-aircraft missiles to India.
Local Production Arrangement: The head of the state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, stated that the signed document includes provisions for organizing the production of Igla-S MANPADS in India. A partnership with an Indian private company is underway for this purpose.
Igla-S - Man-Portable Air Defence System (MANPADS): The Igla-S is a MANPADS designed to be fired by individuals or crews, capable of bringing down enemy aircraft.
Russia-India Defence Collaboration: Despite setbacks in Ukraine, Russia remains India's largest arms supplier.
The collaboration involves joint production efforts, with the Indian Ministry of Defence receiving Su-30MKI fighter jets, tanks, armoured vehicles, shells, and earlier in the year, joint production of AK-203 Kalashnikov assault rifles.
Russia Dominates India's Arms Imports: Russia accounted for 45% of India's arms imports between 2018 and 2022, with France and the United States providing 29% and 11%, respectively.

India Successfully Test-Fires 'Pralay' Ballistic Missile

On 7^th November, 2023, India achieved a successful test-fire of the surface-to-surface short-range ballistic missile 'Pralay', which is deemed to be as potent as the Russian "Iskander" and China's "Dong Feng 12."

The test took place at the Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.

Key Points

Pralay Missile Test Success: Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Pralay missile, with a short range of 350 km to 500 km, was test-fired and met all mission objectives.
The missile can carry a payload capacity of 500-1000 kg.
Tracking and Monitoring: The launch of the Pralay missile, which emerged from the Prithvi defense vehicle, was closely monitored by a battery of tracking instruments that observed its path along the coastline.
Strategic Deployment Locations: Pralay is designed to meet the requirements of the armed forces at the northern and western borders.
It is intended for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
Approval and Anti-Ballistic Capabilities: The project to develop the Pralay missile, with a budget of ₹332 crore, received approval in March 2015.
Notably, the missile has the ability to perform mid-air maneuvers, making it effective in defeating anti-ballistic missile interceptors.

Defence Ministry Approves Equal Maternity and Child Care Leave for Women Soldiers

Recently, Defence Minister granted approval for an extension of maternity, child care, and child adoption leave policies, making them equal for women soldiers, sailors, and air warriors in the Armed Forces, aligning with their officer counterparts.

Key Points

Gender-Neutral Leave Rules: The new rules grant maternity, child care, and child adoption leave to all women in the military, irrespective of their rank, ensuring equal application across the board.
Expansion of Women's Roles: The Indian Air Force and Navy recently began inducting women in their ranks after introducing the Agnipath military recruitment scheme last year.
The Army initiated the inclusion of women in the Corps of Military Police (CMP) in 2019, and they are now inducted as Agniveers.
Eligibility Criteria: The benefits of this proposal will be extended to women soldiers, sailors, and air warriors who are part of the 25% of Agniveers inducted into the services based on merit after completing a four-year term.
Agnipath scheme conditions require them to remain unmarried during their initial four years of service.
Maternity and Child Care Leave: Women officers in the three services currently receive 180 days of maternity leave, with the provision for an additional month of leave without pay in exceptional cases, as well as 30 days of leave in case of a miscarriage or abortion.
Women officers are also eligible for 180 days of leave when adopting a child under one year of age. Permanent commission women officers can avail 360 days of child care leave, while short service commission women officers can take 180 days of leave.
Inclusivity in the Armed Forces: The decision aligns with the defence minister's vision for inclusive participation of women in the Armed Forces, regardless of their ranks.
Enhancing Work-Life Balance: The defence ministry stated that these extended leave rules will address women-specific family and social issues relevant to the Armed Forces.
This measure aims to improve the working conditions of women in the military, facilitating a better balance between their professional and family lives.

Indian Navy's New Guided Missile Destroyer 'Surat' Crest Unveiled

Recently, the Chief Minister of Gujarat unveiled the crest of 'Surat,' the Indian Navy's latest guided missile destroyer, in a vibrant ceremony in the city of Surat.

Key Points

Crest Symbolizes Maritime Heritage: The crest of 'Surat' showcases the iconic Hazira lighthouse, built in 1836 at the southern entrance of the Gulf of Khambhat.
It also features the Asiatic lion, Gujarat's state animal, symbolizing the ship's strength and majesty.
The wavy sea on the crest highlights the naval prowess and commitment to maritime security.
A Symbol of Naval Advancement: Equipped with the latest naval warfare technology and combat capabilities, 'Surat' reflects the Indian Navy's dedication to national defence and maritime security.
It promises to be a formidable sentinel safeguarding India's maritime frontiers and strategic interests.
A Tribute to Surat's Legacy: Named after the maritime-rich city of Surat, 'Surat' embodies the spirit of its namesake, known for its maritime history and self-reliant ethos.
Milestone in Naval Technology: As the fourth ship in the indigenous Project 15B (Vishakhapatnam Class) destroyers, 'Surat' marks a significant advancement in naval technology.
Its construction method, involving block assembly at various locations before integration at the Mazagaon Dock Limited (MDL), underscores India's growing shipbuilding capabilities.
India's Growing Naval Power: Following the success of Project 15A (Kolkata Class), Project 15B signifies India's steady progress in naval prowess.
Commitment to Indigenous Maritime Technology: The construction of 'Surat' reflects India's commitment to cutting-edge maritime technology and strategic military advancements, showcasing the nation's dedication to self-reliance.

India Developing Indigenous Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile System

India is currently in the process of creating its own Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LR-SAM) system, with plans for deployment by 2028-2029.

The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is spearheading this project, known as Project Kusha.

Key Points

Indigenous Defense System: The LR-SAM system is expected to be similar to the renowned Israeli Iron Dome air defense system, which has proven effective in countering missile attacks.
Comprehensive Capabilities: The LR-SAM system will have the capability to detect and intercept various threats, including stealth fighters, aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions, with a range of up to 350 km.
Project Kusha Overview: Project Kusha aims to equip India with a robust air defense system capable of identifying and neutralizing incoming threats.
It was approved as a "mission-mode" project by the Cabinet Committee on Security in May 2022.
Procurement Approval: In September, the Ministry of Defence authorized the acquisition of five squadrons of LR-SAM for the Indian Air Force at a cost of Rs 21,700 crore.
Collaboration: The development of the indigenous Iron Dome is a collaborative effort between DRDO, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and private sector entities.
Advanced Features: The LR-SAM system will incorporate long-range surveillance and fire control radars, offering reliable "area air defense" with high single-shot kill probabilities, comparable to the Russian S-400 Triumf air defense system.
Multilayered Defense: It will consist of three layers of surface-to-air missiles, each designed for engaging targets at different ranges: 150 km, 250 km, and 350 km.
Impressive Success Rate: The LR-SAM is expected to achieve an impressive single-shot kill probability of 80% or higher for single missile launches and 90% for salvo launches.
Target Range: It will be capable of intercepting fighter-sized targets at a range of 250 km and larger aircraft like Airborne Warning and Control Systems and mid-air refuelers at a range of 350 km.
Existing S-400 System: India already possesses the Russian S-400 air defense system, which has the capability to engage targets at distances of up to 400 km.

First Vertical Wind Tunnel for Combat Training Inaugurated

In a significant development for the Indian Army, a state-of-the-art wind tunnel designed to enhance military trainees' combat free fall skills has been inaugurated in Himachal Pradesh.

Key Points

Pioneering Facility: The Indian Army's Special Forces Training School (SFTS) at Bakloh has introduced the "Indian Army's first Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT)" to augment combat training, becoming a pioneer in this field.
Enhancing Combat Free Fall Skills: The new Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) offers a controlled environment where trainees can practice and refine their Combat Free Fall (CFF) skills, simulating real-life free fall conditions to prepare for various airborne scenarios.
Benefits of the VWT: The VWT functions as a free fall simulator, creating specific air columns with different velocities to orchestrate diverse CFF conditions.
It helps assess individual reactions to various situations in an airborne operating environment, reducing potential instability in the air and during parachute deployment.
Advanced Training: This facility is not only valuable for beginners but also serves as a resource for delivering advanced training to experienced free-fallers and CFF instructors.
Modernizing Training Infrastructure: The installation of the Vertical Wind Tunnel aligns with the Indian Army's efforts to modernize its training infrastructure.
Operational Readiness: The introduction of this first-of-its-kind project in the Indian Army is expected to significantly enhance the operational readiness of the special forces, ensuring they are well-prepared to face contemporary challenges on present and future battlefields.
Faster and Precise Training: The VWT promises faster and more precise training outcomes for military personnel.

EU and India Conduct Maiden Joint Naval Exercise in Gulf of Guinea

India and the European Union (EU) recently carried out their first-ever joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Guinea, emphasizing their commitment to bolstering maritime security cooperation in the region.

Key Points

Joint Exercise: The joint naval exercise took place in the Gulf of Guinea on October 24, 2023, following the third meeting of the EU-India Maritime Security Dialogue held in Brussels on October 5, 2023.
Knowledge Sharing Session: Following the exercise at sea, a knowledge-sharing session was conducted in Accra, Ghana.
This session aimed to enhance operational knowledge by building on the experiences gained during the joint exercise.
It also facilitated closer connections between Ghanaian officials and representatives from India, the EU, and EU Member States missions to Ghana.
Commitment to Maritime Security: These activities underscored the joint commitment of India and the EU to support coastal states and the Yaoundé Architecture in ensuring maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
The exercise showcased the extensive and dynamic cooperation between the EU and India in the realm of maritime security.
It also demonstrated their shared dedication to upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).