Session 1: Inaugural Session

Maj Gen (Dr) Ashok Kumar, Director General CENJOWS, said that the deliverables are not fully visible in the Services as far as Surveillance & Electro Optics are concerned. Much more needs to be done. He further enumerated that the Surveillance & Electro Optics systems consist of one of the four components essential for warfighting and these are:

• Sensors -They are the eyes and ears that sense the situation in the air, land, and sea domain.
• Data and communication links through which sensor outputs are transmitted to the systems where it will be stored, analyzed, and acted upon.
• Command and Control Centre/ Data Fusion Centre, where the data will be processed and decisions are taken to respond.
• Shooter – is the final component which will react to the emerging situation.

The sensor is the most critical element of the loop, so surveillance using electro-optical sensors is the most important part of the chain. We need to investigate the spectrum and bandwidth the systems need to work upon efficiently. The systems must have the capacity to connect and work together with the three services, and the compatibility with the existing systems will improve their capabilities.

Lt Gen DS Rana, Director General Defence Intelligence Agency delivered the inaugural address stating that, electro-optical sensors harvest the capabilities of optics and electronics to analyze high-resolution visual images in real time. The current conflicts in Ukraine, the Red Sea situation, the South China Sea, the nuclear ambitions of Iran and firings by North Korea are driving the world into an unstable situation. In our neighbourhood, Pakistan is facing an economic crisis, and China, too, is increasing its footprints not only on land but at sea. The need for high-grade sensors onboard drones and space-based assets is proliferating. The role of commercial intelligence data by Maxar has helped Ukraine analyze the movement of Russian troops and counter the threat in time before the attack began. Ukraine has access to NATO-based intelligence, and Russia and Ukraine are continuously attacking the targets in depth using PNT. China has increased its space-based capabilities with EO imaging revisit of about fifteen minutes, two hours in SAR, near-continuous coverage of ELINT in the Indian region. It has ISR capabilities in geosynchronous orbit for round-the-clock coverage in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. China is developing a ground-based system in Pakistan that will enhance BeiDou accuracy to 15cm based on PNT to enhance its regional precision strike capabilities. The unmanned drones can conduct ISRs and are equipped with high-definition IR and SAR sensors. Pakistan is building up its capabilities for coverage of its land borders along Iran, India and Afghanistan using high-definition EO sensors fitted drones. HAPS are solar-powered drones that fly above 20 km for persistent capabilities for many months with a resolution of 15cm. Ground-based sensors can sense the movement of troops using acoustic sensors, and China has operationalized an EO grid along the Line of Actual Control for all weather coverage. The maritime role relies on various sensors, such as long-range patrol aircraft and acoustic sensors fitted on undersea autonomous vehicles. All these developments in the sensors onboard space, air and sea-based platforms have resulted in a paradigm shift in how intelligence is gathered. There is no shortage of data, and the use of data analytics and machine learning algorithms using AI will only help in analyzing the spatial data from a variety of sensors. The use of GIS for the fusion and visualization of spatial data is a growing field many intelligence agencies have adopted. The growth of MASINT (measurement and signature intelligence) is where data from multiple sensors capable of sensing data like electromagnetic, electro-optical, acoustic, and chemical composition are fused. Only the US and Israelis have this technology and our efforts to shore up this technology is the need of the hour. The next challenge is to fuse the data and generate the information using network nodes. These data can be shared in a secure grid to seamlessly counter emerging threats in various domains. He concluded by mentioning that the current global conflicts and geopolitical situations are driving the need for high-grade sensors onboard drones and space-based assets. Both China & Pakistan are developing space-based capabilities, including imaging and coverage in the Indian region. Further, the use of data analytics, machine learning algorithms, and GIS for spatial data fusion and visualization is becoming increasingly important. The growth of MASINT technology, which combines data from multiple sensors, is a priority for many intelligence agencies. The next challenge is to effectively fuse and share data to counter emerging threats.

The Keynote Address was delivered by Air Marshal Surat Singh, Director General Air Ops, Air HQ. He defined the emerging warfighting using the sensors in the following roles:

• Superior Battlefield transparency.
• Networking of all sensors.
• Shortening of OODA loop using automated data support loop.
• Swift response using agile weapons.

They are being done at the HQ level to enable the standardized operation of data formats, protocols, and interfaces. The aerospace domain requires the exploitation of space, air and surface-based sensors. The commercialization of space and dual-use technology must be used optimally. In addition, identifying threats in space, air surface and maritime has to be done almost on a real-time basis using private and public assets. The requirements for space-based solutions that the Air Force has met, are, Stratospheric and persistent platforms assets, Low-cost and fast deployable and expendable assets, Interface with the existing networks like the IACCS system. It enhances the space segment and sensors’ networking to provide sufficient early warning and intercept opportunities. He concluded by discussing the use of sensors in emerging warfighting strategies. These must be implemented for achieving superior battlefield transparency, shortening the OODA loop, integrating all sensors, through automated data support. The air and space domain requires the optimal use of space, air, and surface-based sensors, commercialization of space and dual-use technology. Real-time threat identification in various domains is crucial and can be achieved using both private and public assets. He concluded that the Air Force has successfully met the requirements for space-based solutions, including stratospheric and persistent platforms, low-cost and fast deployable assets, and interface with existing networks.

A Special Address was delivered by Dr BK Das, DG Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS), DRDO. He highlighted that DRDO was working on a comprehensive approach to monitoring warfare trends, both in the outer space and undersea domains. It will be a non-contact war with autonomous weapons with robotics and cyber playing an important role. The next engagement is characterized as zero physical touch, as it will involve use of autonomous weaponry, AI based robots and cyber warfare. Technology wars would require careful re-alignment between country’s tech capabilities, weapon manufacturing, and industrial infrastructure to sustain them. Prioritizing development and maintenance of technological edge is crucial to come out of reliance on the other countries. DRDO is deliberating various options for services, to include SAR and LIDAR technology, advanced radar technologies, and the concept of a “Digital Soldier as a System.” The Services will utilize AI-based electro-optic soldier, autonomous decision-making abilities, robotics capabilities, and its ability to network. Cognitive Warfare is using advanced technologies to disrupt or manipulate adversary’s cognitive processes, while first-person drones will be resistant to EI & RF Interference. He further spoke about how Quantum computing will be used for surveillance in multi-domain battlefields which will facilitate object detection and identification through data gathering, fusion, and analysis. In conclusion, he re-iterated that the DRDO is working towards a comprehensive approach to monitoring warfare, incorporating technologies like artificial intelligence, space warfare capabilities, nanotechnology, big data, and additive manufacturing.

Col K V Kuber, Director Defence & Aerospace, Ernst & Young gave the industry perspective. He said that interoperability was the key for a functional surveillance system with impunity. Indian industries must collaborate with global vendors to get competitive. To reduce Indian dependence on foreign countries, we have to pep up our industrial base and ecosystem. Investment in the indigenous industry is essential to reduce India’s reliance on resources of the other countries. Strategic partnerships are the key. AI will be applied in almost all domains for crucial inputs on data. Sensors in all domains will be used to boost situational awareness and manage information overload. He concluded by re-iterating that data is crucial for intuitive design and industry must develop advance technology in sensors globally. We must ensure that India should be fully prepared indigenously for potential confrontations and early use of weapon systems based on sensors in all domains.

Session 2: Terrestrial Surveillance

The session was chaired by Brig Anurag Asthana, Brig Ops, Artillery Directorate, Army HQ. He introduced the session by drawing inferences from present global scenarios and how countries are striving for military development. He referred to the 7 October 2023 attack launched by Hamas on Israel as an example of growing conventional and asymmetric warfare equipped with lethal weapons. Touching on the session theme ‘Terrestrial Surveillance’, he reiterated the significance of multi-sensors and how the Indian Army was continuously working to upgrade surveillance facilities. He said that future battlefields would be driven by miniaturized Unmanned Autonomous Systems (UAS) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting how AI was being used for reading huge data and had opened “new vistas.” He flagged the requirement of surveillance through deployment of sensors that would allow sufficient time to process data. Passive surveillance would remain beneficial than active surveillance and that the surveillance grid needs to have full proof communication systems.

Shri Madhukar DIG (Ops) Force HQ BSF covered the challenges being faced by the Border Security Force in managing the borders at night. His presentation showcased an overview of the responsibilities of the BSF, present facilities related to surveillance and future challenges that requires to be addressed. Stressing on the dynamic terrain and climate of the Indian subcontinent, the speaker elucidated on the peace time and wartime responsibilities undertaken by the BSF for each of the geographical commands. The Western Sector revolves around the increased use of UAVs, tunnelling across international borders, low visibility during winters, poorly lit areas and non- effectiveness of Surveillance equipment during winters. Similarly, the challenges in the Eastern Sector are specific to altitude and temperature. The BSF has incubated several responses that include Hot Interception Team, Naka cum Ambush, Foot patrolling, Anti-drone operations and even Boat Naka. He further highlighted several projects undertaken by the BSF and comprise of ‘Comprehensive Integrated Border Management Systems’ (CIBMS), ‘Electronic Surveillance of vulnerable patches’ (ESVP) and OCTS project. In the concluding remarks he reiterated continued collaborative measures between BSF with DRDO, IITs and agencies like NTRO for technical solutions with integrated security system at borders. Additionally, the introduction of smart fences will be a game changer with high tech surveillance devices such as sensors, ground-based radar systems, etc, to provide a holistic surveillance mechanism.

Col Sameer Babu, Colonel (C&R), Army AD Directorate, Army HQ, spoke on the Latest Developments in Tackling Threats and C&R for Air Defence, emphasized that Army AD was the largest user of radars amongst the three Services. He touched upon the threats emanating from various altitudes and speeds which call for a dynamic surveillance system in addition to the existing ones. He also highlighted the evolving air threat and the growing impact of air power with the need for an effective air defence capability for land operations. Advancements in radar technology was flagged. Development of passive radar technology will remain a game changer since it is highly cost-effective and compliments existing radar systems. Multiple Inputs, Multiple Output (MIMO) radar technology that has evolved from communications systems provides an edge by simultaneously radiating uncorrelated signals, improving coverage and signal quality. He also flagged the use of ‘Digital Beam’ technology that can be deployed to achieve higher angular resolution and wide coverage without mechanical moving parts. The usage of ‘Active Electronically Steered Array Radar’ and ‘Radar Digital Signal Processing’ were also discussed.

The session also saw participation by several industry players and start-ups who making strides in surveillance and electro-optics equipment.

Vaibhav Gupta, Director, MKU Ltd, spoke on Electro-Optics: Shaping Modern Warfare & Defense Strategies – Learnings, Lessons & Implication In 2024. He spoke on how electro-optics was shaping warfare and defence strategies by drawing lessons from contemporary conflicts, which revealed larger and recurring requirement of equipment and night vision devices, enhanced role of sensor-based technologies, and the need for efficient solutions which deliver “first salvo effectiveness.” This meant there was a need to be self sufficient in manufacturing and core technologies. He then presented MKU’s Smart Soldier Solutions (Netro Soldier Optronics and Kavro Soldier Protection) and Smart Platform Solutions (Netro Platform Optronics and Kavro Platform Protection).He also gave details of MKU’s facilities and reach of its products and clients around the world.

Ram Biron, Director of Marketing, SCD, Israel, spoke on Advanced integrated applications utilizing high definition format IR detectors. He gave details about SCD’s credentials, facilities, core technologies in infrared detectors and video engines. He explained SCD’s share of cooled 2nd-gen scanning and staring FPAs, InGaAs FPAs detectors and modules in the defence market. He covered key global trends in IR sensors which were driving SCD’s road map. His presentation included SCD’s cooled detectors and video engines (MW/LW), new-gen SWIR solutions, combined HD MWIR and 3rd-gen ALPD SWIR, and next-gen DAS for armoured fighting vehicles.

Sandeep Shah, Managing Director, Optimized Electrotech, spoke on Assisted & Automated Surveillance. He gave details about the company and progress, patents, certifications, and clients. He cited challenges in surveillance – border conflicts, undemarcated borders, infiltration, and specific geopolitical and geographical challenges in India. He gave details about Optimized Electrotech products – NoctVision, InfiVision, ClearVision, and OmniVision. He also gave details and benefits of Autonomous AI based multi-spectral surveillance platforms.

Abhinav Gupta, Managing Director, SES, spoke on Rechargeable Li-Ion Batteries for Military Devices. He gave an overview of his company, products, present challenges in battery use, indigenous solutions, capabilities and in-house facilities. SES has worked for Indian and Israeli armed forces. SES solutions included smart chips and intelligent programming, intelligent electronics, advanced machining, novel materials and innovations.

Vinod Yadav, Head-Technical (Optronics & Computing Platforms), Tata Advanced Systems Ltd spoke on Products and Solutions in Electro-optics. He gave details about Tata Advanced Systems’ business verticals, product portfolio (Weapons, Sensors, C4I systems), and particularly the portfolio in electro-optics (cooled TI systems, uncooled TI systems, II-tube based NVDs). He gave details about short-range observation systems, long range observation systems (Rajak ULR), modular long range surveillance platforms, weapons sights, crew vision systems. He also spelt out TASL’s future technology focus areas.

Ramkrishna Siddam, General Manager, Optica spoke on Complete Solutions for Next-Generation Electro-Optical Systems. He overview of his company, capabilities, certifications, products, core expertise, testing facilities, and optics & electro-optical systems including Schlieren Systems, optics for TMT, Aerosol LIDAR, Cloud LIDAR, MIR LIDAR, FTIR System, Adoptive Optics BDOC System, Light Weight High Power Laser Mirror, IR panoramic camera and ongoing projects including Surya Tilak project for Ram Mandir at Ayodhya.

Session 3: Aerial In Space-based Surveillance

The session was chaired by AVM Rajiva Ranjan, ACAS Ops (Space), Air HQ. He said that military intelligence was the key to war. Space and air are the ultimate frontiers. In 1991, Space ISR became prominent. Aerial and SAR systems are very vital assets for military in multi-domain operations. Aerial SAR, integrated on aircraft, offers various advantage of fast deployment and flexibility, enabling real-time monitoring and target identification in various terrain and all domains. These systems provide crucial intelligence for mission planning, threat assessment, and battlefield situational awareness. On the other hand, SAR satellites provide persistent surveillance capabilities to monitor vast areas continuously for global coverage. They offer high-resolution capabilities that detect and track moving targets and assess changes in the environment. Both aerial and space-based SAR systems were integral components of military reconnaissance in providing invaluable support for operations, intelligence and decision-making processes in all domain.

Col Jasbir Mann, Col Aviation-10, Army Aviation Directorate spoke on UAV sensor payloads for persistent surveillance, and emphazied on the technologies for future warfare which could include three main types of technologies – Foundational, Strategic and Tactical. Examples included Artificial Intelligence, space technology and cyberwarfare. There is also a list of other advanced technologies like nanotechnology and robotics. He mentioning the need of all-weather aircraft and surveillance systems with capability of contemporary payload with high resolution.

Wg Cdr Aruna Singh, DIPAC, Def Space Agency spoke on Space-based ISR for early warning. Space Surveillance along with Military operations rely heavily on surveillance and reconnaissance, to perform strategic and tactical imaging over areas of interest with persistent surveillance. Geosynchronous satellites offer wider surveillance over wide areas particularly denied by other surveillance devices. The speaker highlighted the significance of gathering intelligence to effectively plan and carry out military operations, making well- informed decisions. She discussed the importance of adjusting military forces in response to shifts in an adversary’s order of battle (ORBAT) and making necessary revisions to future actions. Regarding EW satellites, she mentioned that they are designed to specifically detect ballistic missile launches. It was later incorporated into missile defence systems and regulatory control systems for nuclear tests as these satellites have the capability to detect a missile launch right from the start of its trajectory. They utilize infrared sensors to detect missile engines based on the intense heat emitted by their flames. They possess a distinct advantage over radar in their ability to scan a significantly larger area. As on date, three nations-USA, Russia, and China possess constellations of these early warning satellites. Lastly, she emphasized the advantages of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS). This system consists of a network of satellites in geosynchronous Earth orbit and payloads in highly elliptical orbit, all managed by ground processing and control systems. These systems are held by three countries only so far.

Air Cmde Hrushikesh J Page, Air Cmde Int (Ops), Air HQ spoke on Latest developments and requirements for Tactical Recce (EO, SAR, IR Search). Having a deep understanding of tactical reconnaissance is crucial for successful military operations. It allows for thorough analysis of the ever-changing dynamics of the battlefield, accurate identification and prioritization of targets, efficient management of information dissemination, and effective communication. It is of utmost importance in dangerous environments such as nuclear, biological, and chemical. The equipment needs to possess a high level of agility, resilience, efficiency, and seamless integration with systems. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, such as face and text recognition, is crucial for precise identification. Security and compatibility are of utmost importance. Having equipment such as ELINT, SAR, and IR is crucial.

Dr Manvendra Singh, Scientist G, IRDE, DRDO spoke on Intelligence Gathering with EO Sensors for Today’s Missions.

Session 4: Maritime Surveillance, Research & Development

The session was chaired by Cmde Ashish Bhargava, Cmde Air Warfare & Flight Safety, Naval HQ. He emphasized the importance of maritime surveillance in the Indian context owing to the long coastline. He said that maritime surveillance was an amalgamation of a lot of platforms with sensors with the inherent challenge of transporting the data due to absence of terrestrial network.

Comdt Banshidhar Singh, Joint Dir Communications, Indian Coast Guard spoke on Surveillance against Aerial, Surface and Underwater Threats. He highlighted the importance of surveillance in the maritime domain for ensuring an appropriate response to any developing situation relating to maritime safety and security. He defined the objectives of maritime surveillance to holistically understand, anticipate and administer all events and actions related to the maritime domain that could impact the maritime security. He said that it includes and relies on maritime law enforcement, maritime pollution and marine environment control, disaster response, search and rescue, anti-poaching, anti- smuggling, anti-human trafficking and safeguarding countries’ trade and economic interests. So, the prime objective is to detect any suspicious or anomalous target that could subvert the national interest in the maritime zones. He acknowledged the need to upgrade capabilities by keeping in tune with the advancements in technologies and put forth some recommendations for the ICG which include adaptation of existing magnetron-based radars to solid-state radars, daylight CCD thermal imager with laser illumination, electro-optic system to HD thermal camera, CCD with short wave infrared technology to see through haze, fog, glass, and better ranges, and inclusion of satellite AIS for better coverage.

Cdr K Varun, Cdr AW, Naval HQ spoke on Integrating Assets for Maritime Surveillance. He talked about complexity of maritime surveillance of the IOR because of the amount of maritime traffic that transits this region which is further exacerbated by the thousands of fishing boats and the requirement of keeping an eye on the three domains of surface, sub-surface and air by the Indian Navy. He also mentioned the government’s stance on India being the ‘First Responder & Preferred Security Partner’ and the role being played by the Indian Navy currently in the Gulf of Aden. He spotlighted the importance of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and its centrality to the information, decision and action cycle. He mentioned the various fixed & rotary wing and manned & unmanned platforms and the surveillance sensors in service with IN for building the MDA. He also covered the various surface and sub- surface platforms, sensors and weapons utilized by the IN towards the task. He threw some light on how all this data from the IN’s sensors and from other agencies including space is aggregated, correlated and disseminated by the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC).

Maj Gen (Dr) Ashok Kumar, Director General CENJOWS gave the closing remarks, alluding to the rise of India as a leading economic power and the need for the defence forces to rise to the challenges towards which the three services are willing to state their needs in an open and upfront manner and there is much visible collaboration between the forces and the industry. He said that the defence forces are ready to hand-hold those who are willing to be partners in the growth of the defence forces and the nation.

Maj Gen Ravi Arora, Chief Editor, Indian Military Review, ended the seminar with a vote of thanks to the speakers, subject matter experts, sponsors, exhibitors, all attendees and CENJOWS for the success of the event.

The post EVENT REVIEW – Surveillance & Electro- optics India 2024 appeared first on IMR.

SESSION 1: INAUGURAL SESSION

Opening Remarks. Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director CENJOWS, emphasized on the importance of critical and advanced materials and its supply chain across the continents and how the recent conflicts in Europe and Middle East had affected the availability of special materials. He highlighted importance of advanced materials in weapon platforms to achieve the asymmetric advantage over our adversaries. Nano-materials, meta-materials, multifunction materials, and biomimetic materials are all smart materials which are being leveraged to have supremacy in the battlefield. Countries like United States, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, have got critical material strategies and policies. We are still yet to announce a critical materials strategy or policy.

Our country spent close to $2 billion worth of imports of advanced materials every year and majority of this comes from a potential adversary which is an issue of great concern. We have indigenized most of our systems but the special materials for these systems are being imported. We need to be conscious as to how we get self-reliant for semiconductors and critical material. The Mineral Policy of 2020, has already assured a lot of corrective policy measures. The Mines and Minerals Development and Regulations (MMDR) Act of 1957, has been amended twice recently as a result 30 critical minerals have been identified and opened up for auction to the private sector. Even Lithium has now been deregulated. For global partnerships, India is now engaged with the outside world through Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (ICET) with the United States. India has also signed the Mineral Security Partnership in 2023, with the US and 12 other entities including EU. India has also inked a Critical Mineral Investment Partnership with Australia. It has signed MOUs to engage with Chile, Argentina, Australia on getting Lithium, Cobalt and other special metals and to translate this into action, all the stakeholders were expected to brainstorm the issues.

Keynote Address. Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary Dept of Defence R&D & Chairman DRDO, emphasized that to have significant improvement in the performance of the defence systems, better materials with superior manufacturing technologies were required to be put in place. Unfortunately, we have not paid much attention to this important field. If we want to achieve our prime minister’s dream of Atmanirbhar Bharat and technology leadership in this Amrit Kaal, we have to pay greater attention to this stream of technology.

Broadly, materials can be divided into structural and functional materials, based on their roles. There are materials which perform the load bearing task for any weapon platform and there are materials which perform certain functional role of specific nature. Structural materials are materials such as steels, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, polymer matrix composites, ceramic matrix composites. Functional materials are semiconductors, silicon, gallium arsenide, gallium nitride, permanent magnets and stealth materials.

We have been fairly strong in the structural materials. However, manufacturing of functional materials remains a grey area for us. We were left behind in the Silicon race in the 70s. For the new semiconductor materials developed for high power electronics such as silicon carbide, we have to ensure that we do not miss the opportunity. If we want to design hypersonic missiles, we need to first develop the scramjet propulsion and to develop scramjet propulsion, we need to develop materials which can withstand those high temperatures. To achieve that we need to look at niobium alloys, and nickel based super alloys with cooling channels.

Developing materials for defence and aerospace has several challenges. Some of these challenges are low volume and sporadic orders for the industries, stringent requirements for qualification and certification exponentially increasing the overall cost. However, the most significant challenge is the long development cycle for any material development. The design cycles for new weapon systems are shrinking. They are now down to about 4 to 5 years where as the new material development cycle is 10 to 15 years. So it is extremely challenging for a designer to starts designing a system to decide which material he should use. Lots of attempts internationally are now being made to see how this new material development cycle can be shrunk. Efforts are being made and over the next 10-15 years, we will be able to make some progress in lot of fields. The other initiative which is happening globally is known as the materials genome initiative which is a more hybrid approach.

It is the materials modelling approach including rapid experimentation approach and also using artificial intelligence and machine learning approach. Lot of material data has been collected over the years and using AI-ML tools. It is possible to get some insight into what should be a material or what should be the composition of a material or what processing should be used to achieve the desired outcome. As a nation we must have a more collaborative approach where academia, R&D institutions as well as industry work together to achieve this goal. The challenges start when we have to scale up from laboratory to industrial scale. The challenges are not only technical in nature but also techno commercial because unless the volumes are large, the cost becomes high. The issue of the infrastructure required for materials manufacturing is also very costly. 

Theme Address. Lt. Gen Manjinder Singh, DCIDS (PP&FD), HQ IDS highlighted the overwhelming reliance on China for critical hardware and special materials. The inclusion of fabrication and production of semiconductors through the new semiconductor policy was a welcome step. Dwelling upon the broad application of 3D printing, additive manufacturing from its initial beginning on a commercial scale, it has come a long way from medical equipment to space. The recalled Deng Xiaoping’s remarks about crude oil being synonyms with the Gulf and rare earth elements to China. ICT industry was seeking safer sources for conductors and semiconductors outside China. This is where India stands to gain. The West’s over-independence on China for rare earth elements has exposed the critical fault lines that are now being addressed globally. Tech giants like Apple, Boeing, Lockheed Martin are tightly coupled with China on the relevance of advanced materials, semiconductors and rare earth elements and trying to decouple the same. India must move into the semiconductor space with attractive investments opportunities to create a credible alternative to China’s manufacturing industries. Tata Group’s acquisition of the Bristol plant for manufacturing chips and iPhones in India demonstrates India’s intent to harness the opportunity of decoupling from China.

Modern war demands fighting and winning with indigenous solutions. Adoption through innovation of critical emerging technologies such as advanced materials, rare earth elements, composites and semiconductors are the way forward for our nation and to achieve this public, private sector industries, academia, and defence forces needs to collaborate frequently at all echelons. The government is putting policy and procurement measures in place, requisite hand-holding of industry, exploring this space is need of the hour for capability building and obviating foreign dependencies in this field.

Special Address. Maj Gen Charanjit Singh Mann, Additional DG Army Design Bureau highlighted the perspective of a user. He mentioned that the quality, type and composition of materials is insignificant for the user. What matters to the soldier is that it should be able to perform the desired task. He highlighted the kinds of advanced materials which are required for land forces applications. He mentioned about the importance of higher strength to weight ratio because it leads to overall weight reduction for the soldier’s equipment and weapons. He also emphasized upon high thermal stability, enhanced electrical conductivity, strength performance, higher sensing capabilities, and energy storage along with, durability factors of the equipment which impacts its overall configuration for fighting a battle. Speaking about each of these parameters he mentioned that land systems should be lightweight, flexible with higher performance to improve the agility for a soldier and afford manoeuvrability to the platform. All efforts should be made to reduce the overall load of a soldier. Even two kgs of helmet is also heavy for him during combat. Similarly, the bullet proof jackets or vests should also be as light and flexible and protective in nature. The materials used in unmanned aerial systems, directed energy weapons like Laser, Microwave systems should be able to withstand high temperatures. Special batteries, which are lightweight and compact are required. Conformal sensors and integrated circuits should be small and light with improved aerodynamic.

The communication systems have to be lightweight high performance antennas. EMI shielding should also have high signal integrity and low loss. Similarly, counter measures systems should also light weight high portability with ability to detect stealthy assets. For example, radar systems equipped with advanced signal processing algorithms and integrated with meta-material based antennas should be able to dissipate the effectiveness of strength materials by unique electromagnetic properties. The requirement of keeping the troops warm at high altitude regions should use materials which can withstand the wear and tear of weather and extreme fluctuation of temperature. With advanced materials we can achieve a much more efficient habitat system. He highlighted certain initiatives, projects which are under consideration, eg, protective spray on coatings and paints, especially for the unmanned aerial systems protecting them from high power laser weapons, the nano caffeine absorber coatings for different kinds of defence applications ceramic protection solution for armor protection, low cost sensor technology to detect different bio-warfare agents, smart thickening, fluid-based, ultra-resilient, adaptive kinematic soft rubber armour, sub-zero temperature Lithium-Ion batteries for supporting high altitude operations, energy harvester assisted power bank for mobile equipment, which shows a comprehensive integration of advanced materials across diverse domains within the defence forces.

Col Kuber highlighted that China had imposed export restrictions on gallium, gallium and germanium in response to American sanctions exposing the vulnerabilities of Western countries on dependence on China for critical raw materials. Turkey does not have certifications, which is time consuming and sometimes frustrating. They follow the supply and demand concept along with user requirements and they are one of the largest exporters of special materials. As far as China’s ambitious Belt Road initiative is concerned, they are proactively engaged with African Union countries and Australia to meet their burgeoning demand. China is diversifying its supply sources by investing in Africa and Australia. India has placed certain materials in the positive list of indigenization, which is highly significant for the industry. Raw materials which are available in India, should be banned for import. Government of India policy on critical minerals declared in June 2023 enables the private players to explore and mine these minerals. This is a defining moment for the industry.

SESSION 2 : ADVANCE MATERIALS FOR AEROSPACE

Session 2 was chaired by Air Vice Marshal Yalla Umesh, Asst Chief of Air Staff (Engineering), Air HQ.

Prof Ravi Shankar Kottada, Dept of Metallurgical & Materials Engineering, IIT-Madras, spoke on Stealth Materials, Components and Technologies for Aero applications. He explained the latest technologies in preparation of special advanced materials. He highlighted that Addictive Manufacturing was the process of joining materials to make parts from 3D model data. Elaborating on these methods he explained the process of Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) by Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF), Direct Energy Deposition (DED), and Sheet Metal Lamination method. Chessboard Strategy results in better properties in alloys.

Srinath Ravichandran, CEO Agnikul Cosmos, covered the essential aspects of Agnibaan, which is an Agnikul’s mini space launch vehicle. The vehicle is dedicated and fully customizable for launching small satellites. It offers a 40 times faster launch turnaround which is a significant improvement in launch scheduling. The vehicle is linearly scalable from carrying 30 kg to 300 kg, indicating cost-effectiveness for various payload sizes which is 10 times cheaper. The Visitors att engines are named Agnite and Agnilet. Each Agnite engine can produce 25kN of thrust at sea level and can be configured with 4, 5, 6, or 7 engines. The Agnilet engine produces 8kN at vacuum. Its first flight was scheduled for Nov or Dec 2023.

Alok Singh Chauhan, Scientist F, DMRL, DRDO, spoke on Superalloy Casting Technologies For Aero Gas Turbine Engine Applications. He included:

• 3D printing as Manufacturing Technique in Aerospace.
• Application of Copper in Aerospace.
• Engine Components.
• Landing Gear Components.
• Electrical Wiring and Connectors.

Covering the canvas of Challenges in 3D printing of Copper & Smart alloys, he brought out issues pertaining to :

• High Thermal Conductivity.
• Oxidation Sensitivity.
• Printability.
• Thermal Stresses and Cracking.

The chairperson concluded by highlighting that all super alloys may not be meant for manufacturing. While super alloys are highly specialized materials known for their exceptional mechanical strength, resistance to thermal creep deformation, good surface stability, and resistance to corrosion or oxidation, they might not always be suitable for use in manufacturing processes.

SESSION: 3 – ADVANCED MATERIALS FOR LAND SYSTEMS, MISSILES AND NAVAL APPLICATIONS

The session was chaired by Rear Adm K Srinivas, Asst Chief of Materials (Dockyard and Refit), Naval HQ. He opened the session by highlighting importance of advance materials in manufacturing of battle ships for the Indian Navy. The Indian Navy uses specific material for ship building, eg, advanced steels for hulls for ships. Materials used for hulls is completely indigenous, highlighting Atamnirbhar Bharat success story. These materials are being developed by DRDO through integral research fraternity. Composite materials used in ship-building to reduce weight and increase stealth features are constantly being improved locally. To highlight self sufficiency of the country in the field and specialisation, it was mentioned that Vizag Dockyard uses 22 different types of steels for various manufacturing activities. Indian Navy’s requirements in future will be met completely through indigenous sources. Research & development by DRDO on fuel cells, coatings, thermal conductors, alloys, etc was also highlighted.

Cdr BK Singh from Directorate of Naval Design, Naval HQ, spoke on Special Materials for Ships and Submarines Building.” He gave information about structural materials used for ships/submarines and the types of materials used – high strength low alloy steels for hulls, Titanium and Cu-Ni alloys for pipes, Aluminum alloys for superstructures, composites materials for hull of small crafts, and cladded steel for interface structure. Covering the canvas of material failure he mentioned that it primarily occurred in the form of fracture/ fatigue/ creep. He emphasised upon the desired strength of materials required and explained factors of yield strength, resistance to brittle fracture, toughened materials and good ability to get welded. He mentioned that constant efforts were being made to develop high strength steel. He spoke about challenges faced in Titanium welding and future development of materials with improved qualities like steels with yield strength of 1000 MPa, metal fiber composites and biometric hull.

Lt Col Kunal Tagunde, Instructor Call A, College of Military Engineering, Pune spoke on Latest Developments in Impact Absorbing Body Armour. He gave the historical perspective, mismatch in requirements versus products in use by troops. He highlighted the aspects of flexibility, ergonomics, latest trends, new and innovative materials being developed, eg, Fiber, CT, Carbon Nano, etc. He briefly covered the Initiatives By CME, Pune on project Padam Kawach.

SESSION 4 : SMART & FUTURE MATERIALS/REAR EARTHS & SEMICONDUCTORS

The session was chaired by Rear Admiral (Prof) Deepak Bansal, IIT-Madras. He highlighted the need to devise a strategy to develop an ecosystem related to chips as well as special materials by bringing together all stakeholders including the Govt. He mentioned that Rare Earths are in abundance, however, these oxidised materials are rare because most deposits are of low in concentration and takes lot of efforts to process them.

Anuttam Mishra, Director (Technical), Indian Rare Earths Ltd spoke on Smart and Future Materials and Rare Earths. He recounted efforts of DAE in last 40 years. He said that rare earths were a group of 17 chemical elements which were used to produce useful high-tech products. Seven minerals are available in India which are processed by Rare Earths. Out of these thermal applications materials have been provided to Defence and BARC. Though the Rare Earths have offered finished material like phosphorous catalyst, etc, to the civil industry for exploitation, it has not found much success. There are few mining sites with limited mining capability, hazardous residue, long gestation period, highly capital intensive, due to economy of scale and low consumption. Most materials are highly radioactive and, hence, need high order of safety measures in their handling.

Dr Kingsuk Mukhopadhyay, Scientist G, DMSRD, DRDO spoke on Smart polymer, fibre & fabrics for stealth, extreme cold, fire resistant & ballistic protection. One of the major challenges for portable water filtration is rate of filtration due to insufficient gravitational pressure. A mitigation technology in compact area is developed by DMSRDE using porous nano fibres which don’t use any chemical or electrical power for purification.

DMSRDE has prepared unique SSG which shows the change in viscosity as a function of shear force and holds a great promise for damping and shock energy dissipation. Besides this DMSRDE has successfully developed modular Bullet Proof Jackets (BPJs) to provide 360-degree protection as per the laid down GSQR.

Functional Materials for Radar Absorbers are Dielectric materials which impart dielectric polarization losses whereas Magnetic materials Imparts magnetic losses Ferrites, carbonyl iron, iron silicide. He also informed the audience about the development of Camouflage Systems, Synthetic Camouflage Net for Snow Bound Area (SBA) & green belt area produced and supplied to army. Radar Absorbing Camouflage Net (RSCN) were found effective against Visual, IR and Radar Surveillance. Multi-Spectral Camouflage Net (MSCN) effective in Visual, NIR, TIR and MW bands, Multispectral Personnel Camouflage Equipment and Mobile Camouflage System (MCS) have been developed.

DMSRDE successfully developed Boot Anti Mine Infantry (BAMI) for Infantry troops Indian Army and CAPFs.

Other equipment developed by DMSRDE includes NBC Suit Permeable, NBC Gloves, Advanced Chemical Protective Gloves, CBRN Overboot, NBC Facelet Mask.

Dr Apurba Sinhamahapatra, from CSIR-CIMFR, Dhanbad extensively covered Shaped Memory Alloys as the smartest materials, known for their unique ability to recover their original shape after undergoing deformation making them useful for precise and reversible shape changes. The alloy called Nitinol named after Nickel-Titanium Naval Ordinance Laboratory, displayed the ability to return to a predetermined shape after being deformed when exposed to heat. It has found greater applications in the medical devices, including vascular stents, guide wires, and orthodontic devices. Currently, its applications have gone beyond medical to include aerospace, robotics.

He also gave details on types of Shaped Alloys – One Way alloy which remembers only one shape. The other remembers two different shapes, one at a lower temperature and other at a higher temperature. Iron and copper based SMAs such as Fe-Mn-Si and Cu-Zn-Al are commercially available and cheaper than NiTi. High strength and lightweight material like Nitinol is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for various engineering applications.

KNS Pavan Kumar, Scientist B, YSL-Smart Materials, DRDO covered the topic of Applications of Smart Materials for Future Military Electronics Applications. He spoke about

• Actuators and Adaptive Structures
• Deployable Structures
• Aircraft Components
• Space Mechanisms
• Satellite Components
• Aircraft Engine Components
• Self-Repairing Textiles
• Enhanced Load-Bearing Equipment
• Adaptive Camouflage Cloaks
• Biomechanical Support Systems
• Adaptive Control
• Morphing Wings of Aircraft
• Deployable Structures
• Temperature -Responsive Uniforms
• Bulletproof Vests with Shape Memory Properties
• Application in Drones
• Energy Harvesting for Extended Flight Time

SESSION 5 – ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING AND 3D PRINTING

The session was chaired by Dr Murugaiyan Amirthalingam, Associate Professor, IIT Madras. He gave a basic explanation of the concept of ‘Additive Manufacturing’ to the audience. He said that since Additive Manufacturing (AM) and 3D Printing Technology industry were still in nascent stage, it was the right opportunity to take the lead. He mentioned possibility of adapting additive manufacturing and 3D printing for engineering and biomedical applications, automobiles, etc, in addition to defence. He brought out the benefits of metal additive manufacturing in terms of material and energy saving and design freedom and its attributes of being a fully automated operation with limited skilled manpower requirement to realise from digital to physical form without any part-specific tooling requirements. However, he said that the existing “print-ready” alloys cannot cater to the diverse and growing needs of metal AM, especially in the defence sector, and that true benefits of metal AM can only be realized by developing more AM-friendly high-performance alloys.

V Srinivas, Scientist E, DMRL, DRDO spoke about Additive Manufacturing of Metallic Components for Defence Applications. He started by explaining the concept of Metal Additive Manufacturing. He brought out the advantages of metal additive manufacturing in defence sector specifically reduced product development lead time, reduced dependency on supply chain, manufacturing of critical components with complex geometric profiles, Optimized designs for weight reduction and reduced assembly of parts, manufacture of multi-material components and manufacture of parts with enhanced functional properties and performance.

He gave examples of additive manufacturing being done in the field of aviation and aerospace by GE, Airbus, P&W and NASA. In India, some components for the IAF have been manufactured using AM which have subsequently been certified by CEMILAC.

Today, DMRL is working on the design of new super alloys (alloys by design – ABD) using AM and on developing a test methodology for all the processes.

Capt (Dr) Nitin Agarwala, Senior Fellow, CENJOWS covered the aspects of 3D Printing for Ship Repairs. He began by explaining what AM is and then indicated how AM was slowly being introduced in the maritime sector. For ships, while the US and the US Coast Guard have installed printers onboard, they have used them to print small parts. He showed the cost advantage achieved and that the product manufactured was limited to a non-load bearing member as load bearing members required classification approval process which was still to be defined. He said that since AM had merit and was a sure way to encourage a circular economy, its acceptance would require more work but was a future technology for use on board ships.

Ram Kumar Krishnan, from Intech Additive Solutions covered the subject of Metal Additive Manufacturing through Ultrasonic Atomisation Technology. He indicated that powder quality, handling, purity and manufacture was a challenge for the industry for which Intech had developed solutions. He indicated that while there were a large number of metals, only 50 of them had been atomized to date and small MOQ (minimum order quantity) was a hold point for atomizing more metals. In this effort of manufacturing metallic AM powders, Intech has collaborated with a Polish firm Amazemet and was using ultrasonic atomization, which is considered the best process of manufacturing atomized metallic powder for AM.

S Murali Shankar, Managing Director, Super Auto Forge, covered the subject of Application of Additive Manufacturing in Industries. He provided an insight on manufacturing cold forged parts which is his company’s strength area for the last 50 years. Recently, they have moved to AM wherein they are manufacturing warm forging tools using AM. Such parts can be now manufactured in 78 hours as against 4-6 weeks required in conventional manufacturing process. The printed part has a greater life as internal cooling has been provided to the forged tool. He mentioned that the main challenge in AM is the cost of powder, reducing the build time of parts, increasing productivity and the need for post processing.

The last speaker Sachin Suramwar, from Gasptops briefed the audience on Metal Scan (on-line oil debris sensor providing real-time health monitoring of bearings and gears), Blade Monitor (on-line sensor mounted on engine fan case providing full-time/ real-time detection of blade distortion or cracking) and Chip Check (automated chip detector analyser deployable at the flight line/ maintenance bay) for monitoring equipment health.

Concluding Remarks. Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director CENJOWS summarised the key takeaways of the seminar where he highlighted the need to finding indigenous solutions to the services’ specific requirements urgently in order to overcome the challenges faced in customising the hardware sourced from abroad in preparing the special matreials for defence usage. He said that we need to have a long term strategy in maintaining the assured supply of special materials during war and peace.

The post EVENT REVIEW – Advanced Materials for Defence & Aerospace 2023 appeared first on IMR.

The seminar provided a platform to the industry to interact with the defence services and get an insight into their plans and requirements so that private industry could contribute in capability building. The seminar also updated the audience about the technological advances made by the DRDO.

Session 1 – Inaugural Session

Welcome Address. Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director CENJOWS gave the welcome address and covered the canvas by underscoring the war fighting asymmetry infused by drones in recent conflict. Highlighting the exploitation of drones in offense and defence, along with their vulnerabilities, as demonstrated in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, the potential of manned-unmanned teaming and repurposing of commercial drones. While commenting on the drone threat scenario in the Indian context, he highlighted the immense progress made by the private sector, duly supported by policies and initiatives of the DRDO and the three Services.

Inaugural Address. Admiral R Harikumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, delivered the Inaugural Address and underscored the importance of the Kartavya Kal and the need for Atmanirbharta in the growth of Indian technology and advancement. He mentioned the history of scientific achievements and innovations by mentioning Pushpak Viman, which was 20 centuries before Wright brothers, and the unprecedented and unmatched success of Chandrayan-3’s flight to the moon. He followed with the global landscape and Indian Navy’s role by mentioning 3 key issues. First, the ethical nature of the UAS development, second, the civil military fusion and third, the Indian Navy’s Vision for Unmanned Systems shared with the industry. He focused on leveraging civil tech for the military. He cited Armenia, Azerbaijan, where UAVs played a pivotal role and the exploitation of commercial UAVs in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He highlighted the ethical dilemma posed by the use of autonomous UAS. He argued that niche technology will shape the future to contribute towards Atma Nirbharta in drones.

Keynote Address. The keynote address was given by Lt Gen Ajai Kumar Suri, Director General Army Aviation. He emphasised on the need for research and development citing the example of the Reaper drones of the US since the 1990s. He underscored the proliferation of drones in the recent conflicts, especially by Azerbaijan in 2020 and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where he cited the Russian report which states that about 10,000 drones were being shot down per month. He highlighted three distinct operational contexts in which UAS have been employed successfully. From the1990s, high-end systems like Reaper and Global Hawk were employed by the US but in uncontested airspace and a large number of high value targets were targeted. Then came the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict in September 2020 which displayed mass employment of UAVs by Azerbaijan. Currently in the Russia-Ukraine war, there is a mass employment of both UAS and counter-drone systems.

Large scale introduction of autonomous systems on the battlefield will impact the operational concepts. Therefore, it is important to invest in technologies related to manned-unmanned teaming and auto flight. Previously industries with only a significant capital base could produce military grade systems however today startups and MSMEs are a better place to produce innovative solutions.

Special Address. A special address was given by Air Vice Marshal PV Shivanand, ACAS Ops (Air Defence) Air HQ. He started with emphasis on the civil-military domain and the fast developing UAS, which are ushering a revolution in military affairs. UAS have multi-faceted uses in all domains. He mentioned drone’s role in nations economy, agriculture, infrastructure, mining, HADR and surveillance.

He highlighted China’s loiter munition capabilities and DJI Mavic which costs only $200k, which is relatively inexpensive and is being used by both Russia and Ukraine. He focused on drones’ diversity and its sophisticated nature.

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He laid emphasis on the counter drone capabilities such as jamming and spoofing, hard and soft kill and urged that as a nation India needs to invest in swarm drone technology and manned-unmanned teaming.

He focused on the role of startups and MSMEs towards inhouse production of drones when the global military drone market is expected to reach $57 billion. He said that while the USA, China and Israel were the first movers in this arena, Iran and Turkey are the champions of indigenisation.

The key sectors that are driving the Indian drone industry are agriculture, logistics and defence and that the Indian government has taken various measures to promote the growth of the drone industry such as creating a drone task force and launching a dedicated portal for drone operations. The implementation of the Drone Shakti scheme has revitalised the drone ecosystem through institutionalisation and creation of a structure to enable synergising the efforts of various stakeholders. The liberalised Drone Rules 2021 have made it easier for seeking drone operations and related clearances and nearly 90% of the Indian airspace is accessible to any drone user today.

With the investments nearing $50 million, the current fiscal is all set to be the best year for India’s drone industry and it is expected to grow at 7-8% in the next 5 years. He brought out the various measures taken by each service HQ to handhold and promote the indigenous drone industry like the Meher Baba Competition of the IAF and the various Make 1 and Make 2 proposals of the IA and the IN which have already fructified into some contracts and more on the way.

He highlighted the various emerging challenges like the implementation of the Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) UAS, tracking of UAS to ensure requisite separation between UAS flights and between UAS and civil aviation flights, airspace management for all military UAS users in the tactical battle area as well as in peacetime and coherent management of all counter-UAS systems and that all these are in the process of being addressed.

He concluded by referring to the statistics from the Drone Industry Insight report which states that the global drone industry and the market size is forecast to reach growth of $54 bn by 2030 and that the military practitioners need to be alive to this domain and re-school and retrain to stay ahead of the challenge curve.

Industry Perspective. The industry perspective was given by Col KV Kuber, Director Defence and Aerospace, E&Y. He said that the Indian private drone industry has been majorly responsible for taking up the drone services sector wherein most of the advancements have taken place. His main arguments included the following:-

As per his analysis of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the airborne drone attacks have achieved limited success, whereas the seaborne drone attacks have had stronger impact as the attacks on infrastructure and naval vessels have caused more serious damage and disruption and have demonstrated Ukraine’s capability and extended reach. Therefore, Ukraine is going to continue with these seaborne drone attacks and Russia needs to work out a strategy to counter them. Russia Ukraine drone warfare has made the UAS cheap and easier for exploitation in all domains – air, sea and land.

He brought out that at present there are 61 different UAVs in developmental stage in more than 50 countries across the world including Tapas and Rustom of India.

He highlighted the various unmanned systems projects that are underway and the various contracts awarded by the Indian armed forces to various startups that have helped them grow. However, he said that the various startups still face challenges in terms of funding. He emphasised on the concept of oasis funding and the need to entice larger funds to come into this space so that the startups can scale up not only in terms of capability but also capacity. He said that like Israel, India should become a natural exporter to the world.

He brought out various possible use cases for application of drone technology like airborne communication nodes, aerial retuning, strategic bombing, psychological warfare, information warfare, Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), collaborative swarming, low-cost precision targeting, etc.

He said that when we talk about Buy Indian, we are talking about only 50% indigenous content and 50% is still being imported which includes critical components. This needs to be enhanced to much more than 50% by enhancing the capability to manufacture indigenously what we, at present, are not able to and raising the TRL in various technologies.

He noted that the last 3 years had witnessed a 300% growth in investments in the drone startup industry in India.

He emphasised towards dedicated funding by the defence ecosystem.

He highlighted the success and need for more competitions like the Meher Baba competition and the success of iDEX.

A knowledge paper on drones, prepared by Ernst and Young, was released after his address.

Session 2 – UAV Requirements

The chair of the second session, AVM George Thomas, ACAS (Plans), Air HQ opened the session by stating that there is a growing focus on the vast spectrum of UAS operations.

The session was intended to bring Military viewpoints on what the Armed Forces are seeking and how the UAV technology can meet their needs.

Gp Capt NK Chaubey, Gp Capt Ops (NBC and RPA), Dte of Ops (AD), Air HQ spoke on IAF’s UAV plans.

He mentioned the various MALE and HALE UAVs, aerial targets, UAS munitions, micro-UAVs and Counter-UAS systems presently in use with the IAF, their capabilities and the spectrum of roles that the IAF utilises them for.

He brought out that the requirements of the military UAVs differ from those meant for civil use in that they need to be capable of operating in all extremes of temperatures and terrain in contested airspace with the ever-present threat of enemy offensive action.

He mentioned the security challenges faced because of the proliferation of drone technology in all walks of life whether it be coverage of marriages & sports functions or national events using mini and micro drones and this has led to difficulty in airspace management too. The detection and neutralisation of drones, specially the micro and mini variety, is another area of concern and poses a major threat to national security.

With the ever-increasing numbers of UAS operators, availability of adequate frequency bandwidth for operating the UAVs will become difficult in future.

Covering the future plans of the IAF, he said that in view of the recent conflicts and keeping in mind the likely conflict scenario, the IAF plans to have an inventory of UAS encompassing the full spectrum to meet the IAF’s operational requirements. Work is in progress to enhance the capabilities of the existing platforms and procure modern platforms in the form of modern MALE UAVs with more capable payloads, HALE UAVs capable of undertaking operations in mountainous terrain including UCAVs and short and medium range SatCom enabled and controllable UAS munitions and easy to operate UAVs with minimum acoustic signature and high endurance for base defence of sensitive military installations. The IAF has already signed a contract for procuring Swarm Unmanned Munitions System

The IAF is thoroughly involved in the ongoing design and development programme of MUM-T being undertaken by HAL in coordination with the private sector. The IAF is also pursuing design and development of High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS).

In line with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the aim is to have indigenous products which will also ensure a sustainable logistical supply chain in case of a long-drawn conflict.

He mentioned that all future procurements will have the mandatory requirement of interoperability, in case a similar system is being procured by any of the sister services to ensure optimum utilisation of resources.

The plan is also to have all the IAF’s RPAs networked to undertake operation from a central Mission Operation and Intelligence Centre (MOIC) with a vision to enhance the intelligence generation capabilities so as to be aid to all three services.

Other future plans for payload acquisition include multi-spectral EO payload with lasing capability, SAR, COMINT and ELINT payloads, radio relay equipment, IFF, TCAS, RWR and SatCom and all of those with AI and ML integrated in them.

Col Jasbir Singh Mann, Col Aviation-10 (RPAs), Army HQ gave a talk on Army’s HALE UAV requirements.

He mentioned the current inventory of MALE and HALE UAVs of the Indian Army. He said that the IA was responsible for monitoring the 15500 km long land border of the country 24×7 which needs far more advanced systems.

Putting forth the requirements of MALE and HALE UAV for the IA in front of the industry, he said that the UAVs need to have IFF and TCAS for airspace integration, due regard radar, RWR, encryption and anti-jamming & anti- spoofing capability for survivability. The RPAs should be capable of functioning in the challenging weather conditions, at 15- 20 km above earth. Attack drones must have adequate payload capabilities at high altitudes.

He said that the IA wants to procure EO/IR and SAR payloads with medium to long range which have 1 to 2 m of resolution.

The IA, in its future inventory of UAVs, is looking at procuring Runway Independent UAVs by 2025, SatCom MALE UAVs by 2027 and HALE UAVs by 2030 with capability to be controlled centrally, independent of physical location, AI integration and should be compatible and capable to communicate with the existing networks of the Indian Army and those of the sister services.

 Col NR Choudhury, Col Inf-5, Army HQ made a presentation on Army’s Tactical UAV requirements.

He said that most of the present equipment available in the market is COTS or was designed for militaries elsewhere. It was felt that the industry falls short when it comes to modifying this equipment for the very specific and different requirements of altitude, weather and endurance of the IA. Therefore, a lot of R&D is probably required to meet the complete spectrum of Army’s tactical UAV requirement. The various UAV domains that the Army is looking at are battlefield transparency, lethality, mobility and survivability.

He then went on to cover the specific requirements for tactical UAVs which included vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability, high speed, better power management systems, a tactical range of 5-10 km with better payload carrying capability and endurance, altitude capability of 5500 km and modular design for ease of maintenance by troops rather than technicians. He said that since the tactical UAVs will be operated by troops rather than trained pilots, they need to have fail-safe mechanisms for catering for user errors, capability of auto take-off, autonomous navigation, autonomous mission execution, collision avoidance and auto landing. They also need to be man-portable, however, heavier logistic drones can be vehicle portable systems.

The various types being sought are nano drones, surveillance copters, tethered drones for continuous surveillance and mini UAVs for battalion level surveillance.

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Coming to the specific requirements of surveillance drones, they need to have the capability of providing battlefield transparency beyond line-of-sight with all weather and day and night capable payloads, sensor to shooter integration, good endurance and stealth.

The Army is also looking to procure drones for logistics supply, drones for kinetic role and mobility drones for various tactical operations as well as casevac. All the systems need to be robust, ECM resistant, compatible with multiple GNSS and compatible with defence series maps.

Brig Manish Pande, Brig Ops, Arty Dte, Army HQ spoke on Artillery Requirement of Runway Independent RPAs.

Projecting the requirements from drones for supporting artillery operations, he said that the drones should be able to provide a shorter, faster, more responsive sensor to shooter link to support real-time engagement at distances of about 100 km, post-strike damage assessment, should require minimal infrastructure for quick and flexible operational deployment, have small cross- section to prevent detection, provide beyond LoS visibility and provide limited aerial surveillance capability to formation commanders.

He informed the audience that cases for procurement of 65 runway independent surveillance RPAs with minimum range of 80 km and endurance of 6 hours and for medium range precision kill systems (loitering munitions) are already under progress.

Cdr Hemant Shekhar, Cdr (AW)-RPA, Naval HQ spoke on Navy’s Experience with Drones and Future Plans.

He explained the importance of maritime surveillance in building up the Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and the contribution of RPAs to it. He mentioned the RPA assets currently in service with the IN.

Coming to the future plans of the Indian Navy, he said that it is looking to procure 31 HALE RPAs, naval shipborne UAS, HAPS for large area and sustained duration coverage, canister-launched loitering RPAs, unmanned surface vessels and unmanned underwater drones.

He went over the challenges being faced in the form of availability of satellite bandwidth and coverage for operation of UAS, availability of flight levels for naval UAS operations and requirement to initiate dialogue on regulations for non-segregated airspace for both manned as well as unmanned aircraft.

Following also emerged from the Q&A session:-

The DGAQA in Army HQ is working on having unified composite trial teams for consolidating the various requirements of the Indian Army and presenting them to the industry for providing solutions.

The MALE and HALE UAV requirements of the armed forces are being processed as joint service cases with single service lead and single unified testing.

Industry may feel that the requirements being projected by the services are too exacting to be fulfilled and in that way the services are not supporting the industry. However, what needs to be understood is that the prime job is to equip the soldier at the front suitably so that he or she can fight and therefore, the primacy remains of the war-fighter and the industry will have to catch up in that regard.

Though drone technology is a dual use technology and the military use began with the use of commercial drones in battlefield starting with roles like light logistics, but with the proliferation of counter-UAS systems, there is a challenge and an unavoidable need of hardening the UAS to permit it to operate in contested battlespace.

Session 3 – Industry’s Potential And Capabilities

The third session was chaired by Rear Admiral (Prof) Deepak Bansal (Retd), Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Madras. He opened the session by acknowledging the need of the UAS and that of collaboration between the services and the industry to maximise the potential. He brought up the challenges being faced by the startups and the MSMEs in the form of supply of critical spares for drones and difficulty in raising before inviting the panelists to deliver their talks.

A Special Address was given by Smit Shah, President, Drone Federation Of India. He said that till 2014 there was a blanket ban on use of drones. However, realising the potential of drone technology and its role as a force multiplier in military operations and the significant use in multifarious civil applications, the government took a critical decision of liberalising the drone policy in 2021.

He recounted various initiatives and efforts undertaken with a central mindset that India has to become a leader in development of drone technology with a special focus on owning Intellectual Property (IP) and developing tech in-house.

The latest initiative has been the ease of exports under which export of drones with range up to 25 km and payload capacity up to 25 kg for exclusive use in civilian domain have been exempted from the purview of SCOMET policy.

He recommended that the armed forces should some prepare specific medium-term requirements so that the industry has its design targets and is able to develop more complex platforms and technologies.

Swapnil Jalundhwala, Adani Defence and Aerospace spoke on Make in India in Military UAS.

He gave the vision of his company and an overview of its strategic imperatives, the indigenous technologies that it was working on such as in the fields of UAS, counter-drone systems, satellites, missiles & munitions, small arms & ammunitions, cyber, AI & ML, etc.

He went on to introduce the various UAS indigenised by the company in the last few years in MALE, tactical, mini, micro categories as well as for logistics and agricultural applications. He covered in detailed the Drishti 10 (Starliner) UAS that features endurance up to 36 hours and LoS range of up to 350 km, is equipped with SatCom, ADS- B, IFF, collision avoidance system, DRR and RWR, has 4 hardpoints and an internal bay, and is integrated with advanced EOIR, SAR, MPR, ELINT, COMINT and Skeye payloads. It has autonomous take-off and landing capability and features single pilot operation and de-icing. The platform is STANAG 4761 certified which allows it to fly in civil airspace.

He also highlighted the range of loitering munitions and also the counter UAS system offered by the company.

Ran Weinstein, VP Sales & Mktg, Orbit Communication Systems spoke on Orbit Full Communication Suite for UAVs.

He introduced his company to the audience and touched upon its main product segments namely airborne audio, mobile satellite communication and ground-based fixed and transportable telemetry and tracking systems.

 He then offered some insight into the Orbit UAS Communication Solutions of the company comprising MPT-Airborne VSAT, LOS-Ground Line of Sight and AMS-Radio Gateway. The airborne VSAT is offered by the company in various sizes for use with platforms of varying sizes in Ku and Ka bands.

He also touched upon the UAV MRO facility for Heron and Searcher UAVs of the company and the services offered under the program.

Following also emerged from the Q&A session:-

The Indian Navy’s Unmanned Roadmap for air, surface and subsurface systems is available online in the public domain for the industry to refer to and come up with solutions. The timelines, numbers and other details of procurements could be found out using the link provided therein.

A document named Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap, first published in April 2013 by MoD, is available online for reference of the potential manufacturers. The document provides to the industry an overview of equipment that is envisaged to be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces up to the late 2020s. This document intends to drive the technology development process that the industry may like to pursue. This roadmap may guide the industry in planning or initiating technology development, partnerships and production arrangements. The document was revised in 2018 based on the inputs received from the industry and business organisations for making it more informative.

The NSCS is working on addressing the issue of how to capture talent in schools from class 7th onwards and in colleges into the military domain towards the concept of ‘scholars becoming soldiers and soldiers becoming scholars’.

Session 4 – Innovations and Research & Development

The chairman of the fourth session, Cmde AP Golaya, VSM, OIC Technology Development Acceleration Cell, Naval Innovation & Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO), Naval HQ, said that India did not miss the industrial age but moved from agricultural age to information age without spending sufficient time in the industrial age and, therefore, the manufacturing ecosystem did not develop the way it should have. But as the world is shifting to the information age, suddenly the gap between India and the leading nations has narrowed and the startups can narrow this gap further. He said that more important than manufacturing is owning the IP. The companies who are doing the cutting-edge work need to be identified and nurtured. He was of the opinion that a QR based approach doesn’t work for innovation. Probably, startups know more about technology than the services and therefore, instead of preaching, we need to start listening. He ended his remarks by stating that standardisation is the enemy of innovation.

Dr S Rajagopal, Scientist G, ADE, DRDO spoke on Latest Developments in UAV.

He began with mentioning the various projects other than UAVs under development at DRDO that include the LCA FCS, simulators, cruise missiles, Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) and aerial targets.

He said that the two main projects that DRDO is working on for ISTAR applications are the TAPAS and the Archer UAVs.

ADE is the nodal agency for developing the MALE class TAPAS UAV along with various other DRDO laboratories working on the various subsystems, the services giving the requirements and the PMT for flight testing. The ADE is mainly focussing on the design and the development is being done through various MSMEs. HAL and BEL are the production partners for the project. The induction of production partners has accelerated the progress significantly. He also made a mention of the various indigenous technologies achieved by DRDO.

He also covered the various tests that have been conducted for the project. He said that the tri-service capability requirements are likely to be met in the next four to five years. He mentioned the Single Engine Twin Boom (SETB) variant of TAPAS which is likely to meet all the PJSQRs of the services.

He quickly touched upon the Archer project which is an armed reconnaissance UAV based on Rustom-1. He covered the various requirements set forth for the project and the status of the various flight trials conducted.

Gp Capt (Dr) RK Narang, Fellow at MP-IDSA spoke on Developments in the Civil Military Fusion in Unmanned Aerial Systems.

He examined the civil component of the civil-military fusion. Talking about Civil Military Fusion (CMF) in UAS, he said that there are three basic guiding principles:-

• We want to become a global drone hub.
• We want to become Atmanirbhar.
• We want to have a research-led industry.
• He highlighted CMF as a strategy that optimises complementarities across the civil and military domains.

China articulated the policy of CMF with Chinese characteristics in 2007 and elevated it to national strategy in 2015-16. The USA has its own CMF or Civil- Military Integration policy.

• He brought out the advantages of CMF as:-
• It leverages civil technologies for military applications & vice-versa.
• It increases volume and economic viability.
• It reduces development timelines.

He presented the various civil drone RD&I projects and initiatives of the USA, Europe, China and India. He emphasizes that the projects of the USA and Europe had three characteristics – funding, focussed targets and timelines. China paid a lot of attention to ecosystem building – 13 testing sites were established; a lot of delivery drone trials were conducted.

In India’s case, he examined, the DGCA is an attached office to the Ministry of Civil Aviation which has a Drone Dte but does not have a RD&I initiative.

He said that though we have the target of becoming a global drone hub by 2030 but there are a lot of gaps in the policies and initiatives, especially in the civil UAS space, to realise that target.

Comparing the Indian civil RD&I with those of USA, Europe and China, he brought out the following deficiencies:-

• No designated ministry for civil drone RD&I.
• No government funded civil drone RD&I projects.
• No government led academic Centres of Excellence.
• No projects with definite goals and timelines (except BVLOS industry led initiative).
• No technical selection of testing sites, it is based on funding.
• Inability to formulate policy on operation, standards and certification of drones above 150 kg due to absence of civil drone RD&I testing and validation programme.

At the end, he suggested following as the way forward for CMF in India:-

Ensuring a robust civil drone RD&I ecosystem for CMF by following:-

• A nodal ministry for drones (probably MoCA).
• Civil drone RD&I and self-reliance to be included in National Civil Aviation Policy.
• Create RD&I vertical in MoCA.
• Civil drone RD&I Roadmap.
• Government funded Civil drone RD&I projects.
• Civil-military IDDM projects on critical UAS technology/sub-systems & UTM.
• Creation & implementation of IDDM & positive indigestion list to all ministries.
• Civil drone Standards & Certification based on trials & validation.
• Articulation/standardisation of drone testing sites specifications.
• Mechanism for sharing of military drone technology/sub-systems with the industry.
• Increase collaboration with industry on tactical/MALE and HALE UAS projects.
• Increase R&D funding by private industry.

Col Amit Kumar, Col Arty & Avn, Army Design Bureau spoke on Swarm Drones.

He cited examples from recent conflicts where swarm drones were used for carrying out attacks like those the Russian airbase at Khemmiem and the Tartus Naval Facility in 2018, on Saudi Aramco oil production facilities at Abqaiq and Khurais in 2019 and the instances of swarm drone attacks in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict by both Russia and Ukraine.

He presented a global scan of swarm drone technology with the Predix micro drones, the LOCUST system, the X-61A Gremlin project, the Autonomous Multi-domain Adaptive Swarm of Swarms (AMASS) and the Offensive Swarm-Enabled Tactics Programme (OFFSET) of the US, the Russian Flock-93 project and the Lancet-3 based Product-53, the Chinese CH-901 LM with 48 tube launchers, the French Icarus Drone Swarm and the Turkish Kargu drones.

The military applications of swarm drones would include ISR, SEAD, target saturation, flank protection, communication, EW, CT operations, operations in built-up areas, minefield clearance, logistics resupply in forward areas, and decoys.

He brought out the challenges of command & control, communication and computing power in managing the swarm, endurance, collision avoidance and the ability to launch such a large swarm of drones in a short period of time.

He suggested that the solutions to these challenges could be found in integration of AI and novel algorithms to reduce the computing load, designing the drones to be tube or air launched so that large swarms can be launched within a short period of time and achieve extended ranges despite limited battery life.

He concluded by emphasizing the need to simultaneously develop counter-swarm systems.

Air Cmde SM Paranjape, Team Ldr, Project AD Services Interface Gp, Air HQ spoke on Meher Baba Swarm Drone Competition.

He elaborated that the idea behind the Baba Meher Singh Swarm Drone Competition was to fuel innovation and ideas, refine the execution skills, promote scientific attitude and honest competitive culture. The IAF involved by way of investment of time, funds, fields and expertise.

The purpose of the competition was defined as “Integrate elements of national potential for a common purpose and compete to solve a problem statement”. The role of the Indian Air Force was to add value as a catalyst.

The value edition by the IAF was done by:-

• Identifying gaps in capability
• Objectively defining nation’s requirement
• Defining CONOPS and providing testing fields and facilities
• Providing operational & engineering experience in terms of technological & operational peculiarities of military aviation
• Designing tests & target layout to test technology limits and human factors
• Making Soldier-Scientists: UAS Operators, Swarm Algorithm Scientist, CVML & Sensor Fusion Specialists.

Session 5 – Counter UAVs

The last session of the day was chaired by AVM Rajiva Ranjan, ACAS Ops (Space), Air HQ. He began the session by explaining the innovative manner in which the Russian forces have managed to protect themselves against the Ukrainian drone attacks using their EW and AD systems. He said that while the drones are rapidly developing and have reached a particular stage of maturity, counter drone systems are catching up.

Col Rakesh Zutshi, Col AD (Ops & Op Logistics), Dte of Army Air Defence, Army HQ spoke on Countering the UAV Threat.

He gave examples of threat beyond manned aircraft and the disproportionate outcomes and challenges in identifying the intent. The UAS threat manifestation, the CUAS operation philosophy and the challenges for development of CUAS equipment were the main focus of his presentation.

He said that while earlier aerial threat was expected to manifest from large distance to short distance while crossing from outer to inner layers of defences, today, aerial threat will not follow a defined sequence and may manifest from any range and altitude bracket or may manifest simultaneously in all.

Bringing out the characteristics of aerial threats in the form of UAS, he said that they may be as small as less than 5 metre in size with RCS as low as 0.01 square metre or could take the form of a loitering munition.

Analysing how a UAS system can be countered, he began by considering countering the UAS EM spectrum by exploiting the vulnerabilities of the control signals of the GCS link, the satellite link with GNSS, the data links and even the onboard sensors.

He presented the threat mitigation solutions in countering the UAS systems with soft kill such as jamming and spoofing, and hard kill using small arms, AD guns & missiles, DEWs (Lasers & High Powered Microwaves) and other measures like drone killers & drone catcher nets.

The pre-requisite AD structure for C-UAS would include:-

• Surveillance and detection using active or passive sensors.
• Identification and tracking.
• Destruction or neutralisation using hard or soft kill systems.
• Communication and battlefield management to prevent fratricide.
• The challenges in development of C-UAS systems are:-
• Low RCS detection capability where AESA/ GaN technology is of help.
• Requirement of a man-portable or mobile system with on the move surveillance, detection and engagement capability for protection of mobile formations.
• Transmission power management for EES.
• Cost effective mitigation solution.
• More precise beamwidth to reduce collateral damage.
• Integration with tactical C3I system for situational awareness.

He concluded by emphasizing on the need for development of a variety of integrated C-UAS systems suitable for varied terrain, range and targets.

V Kishore Kumar, Scientist D, DLRL, DRDO spoke on D4 Anti-Drone System. He talked about the requirements for Counter Drone System (CDS) projected to DRDO based on which it developed the D4 (Drone Detect Deter Destroy) Anti-drone System. The major components of the D4 system include a drone tracking radar, a soft kill system consisting of an electro- optic tracking system and a RF detection & jamming system, and a laser DEW hard kill system all of which are connected to a command post.

DRDO is also working on developing a Killer Drone System (drone to drone attack) and a High Power Microwave System.

He explained the operation philosophy of the D4 anti-drone system in detail and also covered the capabilities of the radar system. The D4 system is capable of jamming the communication link signals of a RC drone as well as the GNSS signals of an autonomous drone.

DRDO has developed a vehicle mounted configuration with soft kill and hard kill options, a tripod-based system for the IAF and a vehicle-based system with all four components for the Indian Navy and the Indian Army. BEL is the production agency for the system.

DRDO has developed another long-range system for the Indian Army called the Jammer Anti-UAV (JAU) which has ESM & ECM capability against modern UAVs and is capable of engaging UAVs ranging from nano to MALE & HALE class.

AVM Rajiva Ranjan summarised the session, saying:

The taxation for R&D came down from 200% in 2016 to 150% and subsequently to 100% in the 2021-22 budget. But in specific segments, we need to take up and ask for the R & D budget to be tax free at higher ranges especially when we are thinking of becoming a global drone hub. The taxes on imports of Tier- 2 and Tier-3 categories, which are high, need to be reduced.

Under the National Research Foundation, we should identify a few of the industries and a few of the colleges along with users to make a centre for technology development.

Almost 50% of the money and schemes under TDF is utilised by the DRDO for developing certain technologies for themselves and the DPSUs. Services need to be wise to utilise this additional money that they get over above the capital budget to get their capabilities and ask for technology rather than systems.

In those categories where the technologies are being imported, as per the provisions of the government, we should partner with the academia, create a Centre of Excellence for that technology that is then absorbed.

Startups need to be smart to utilise the provisions of the government like the Program VAIBHAV. The industry should be wise to collaborate with institutions like IITs, MIT, etc., ask for a particular scientist from abroad under Program VAIBHAV, the funding being done by the government, and acquire the technology.

Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director CENJOWS summarised the key takeaways of the seminar where he highlighted the need to finding indigenous solutions to the services’ specific requirements urgently in order to overcome the challenges faced in customising the hardware sourced from abroad, to provide the industry with the services’ mid and long-term requirements so that they have a goal to work for, to examine the requirement of exploiting military frequency bands for communication due to inadequacy of commercial frequencies. He said that much needs to be done as far as unmanned traffic management, synchronisation and airspace management is concerned and one needs to follow the systems of systems approach.

Maj Gen Ravi Arora, Chief Editor, Indian Military Review, ended the seminar with a vote of thanks to the Director CENJOWS for having personally selected the speakers and prepared the program for the event, all the stakeholders for their efforts and the delegates present for making the event a success.

The post EVENT REVIEW – Unmanned Aerial Systems India 2023 appeared first on IMR.

The Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (MoD Think Tank) and Indian Military Review are organising Military Power Systems 2023 seminar & exhibition on 8 Dec 2023 at New Delhi.

Military equipment often requires power systems that can withstand harsh environments and extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, shock and vibration, and electromagnetic interference. Additionally, these power systems must be able to operate in remote locations and be able to function under a wide range of temperatures.

The requirements of military equipment can vary widely depending on the type of equipment. It may be required to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance, which means that the power systems must be highly reliable and have long service lives. They must be lightweight and compact, so as to minimize the overall weight of the equipment.

Military grade power management systems such as battery management systems must be able to monitor and control the power source and provide a reliable power source heat management systems, must be able to dissipate heat effectively and prevent damage to the power source.

Recent Developments

There have been several recent developments in providing lightweight military equipment with a reliable and long-lasting power source that is lightweight and compact, thus increasing the mobility and autonomy of the equipment. Some of the most notable include:

Lithium-ion Batteries: These have a high energy density, which allows for long-lasting power in a lightweight package. They also have a long service life and can be rapidly charged.

Fuel Cells: Highly efficient, lightweight, long-lasting power source, which can operate in remote locations.

Solar Power: Solar panels are a lightweight, long-lasting power source that can be used to generate electricity in remote locations. They can be integrated into military equipment.

Microgrids: Microgrids are small-scale power systems that can be used in remote locations to provide power to a single piece or to a group of equipment.

Hybrid Power Systems: These systems combine multiple power sources, such as batteries, fuel cells, and generators, to provide a reliable and long-lasting power source.

Power Systems for Drones

Small and large drones have different power system requirements, but some general requirements are common to both. Drones have limited space for power systems, so the energy density of the power source must be high to provide a long-lasting power source in a small package. Lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells are commonly used for this reason.

Power system must be highly reliable for drones to be able to fly for extended periods without maintenance.

Drones are susceptible to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) issues.

For large drones, the long-lasting power source must be able to provide a high level of power output.

Harsh environments mean the power system must be able to withstand extreme temperatures, humidity and other environmental factors.

Power Systems for Fighter Aircraft

Fighter aircraft need to power the various systems on the aircraft, other than engines, ie, avionics and weapons systems. Weight is critical, hence, power system must be lightweight as well with high power-to-weight ratio.

For flying for extended periods of time without maintenance, the power system must be highly reliable and safe to use in punishing environments.

Power Systems for Submarines

Submarines have limited space for power systems. They need to be able to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance, in a high-pressure underwater environment, quietly to avoid detection.

Auxiliary power systems for submarines have several special requirements, including Compactness, high reliability, Safety, generate minimal noise and vibration, minimum downtime, and withstand the high pressure and low temperature of the underwater environment.

Power Systems for Soldiers

Soldiers need to carry their own equipment in the field in remote locations and operate in different harsh environment. Power systems for soldiers must be lightweight to minimize the load on the soldier, must have a high energy density to provide long-lasting power source in a small package and be reliable and safe in a variety of environments.

The power source must be durable to withstand rough handling and rugged conditions, and low in maintenance and, at the same time, must be flexible and adaptable to different power needs depending on the mission.

Power Systems for Tanks

Besides the power pack, tanks require auxiliary power to operate the various systems on the tank, such as weapons systems, and communications equipment. They need to be able to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance.

Power Systems for Military Communications

Military communications have several special requirements, primarily EMI/EMC compatibility, portability and ruggedness.

Missiles and Strategic Systems

Missiles and strategic systems need to be able to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance. They are susceptible to EMI and EMC issues, and have limited space for power systems. Redundancy and safety factors are important in the case of missiles.

Alternate Sources of Power

There are increasing calls for military vehicles and equipment to reduce carbon emissions. Alternate sources of power are being explored.

Electric power can be generated from a variety of sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro, which are all renewable and produce no emissions. Electric power can be stored in batteries and used to power military vehicles and equipment.

Hybrid power systems, combining internal combustion engines with electric motors and batteries can improve the fuel efficiency of military vehicles and equipment.

Fuel cells, which convert chemical energy into electricity and can be powered by hydrogen, a clean-burning fuel that produces only water vapor when burned, can be used to power military vehicles and equipment.

Biofuels, such as biodiesel and bioalcohol, are being tried in transport aircraft.

Propane, natural gas, solar energy, are other alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, with lower carbon content, which can be used to power military vehicles and equipment.

Critical Components and Materials

Military grade power sources and power systems require specialized components and materials that can withstand harsh conditions and demanding environments.

Military grade fuel cells typically use platinum and ceramics. Solar panels are typically made with materials such as silicon and glass.

Military grade power electronics, such as inverters and converters, use materials such as silicon and ceramic. Military grade cabling and connectors use materials such as copper and fibre optics.

Common Factors

Military equipment is required to be used for extended periods of time without maintenance, in a variety of environments, rough terrain and harsh conditions, including hot and cold temperatures. They cannot be allowed to fail.

Military systems have limited space for power systems. They are susceptible to EMI and EMC issues.

The power sources need to provide long-lasting power, be portable and utilize minimum fuel and increase the system’s endurance. The power source must be compact to fit in the limited space.

The power system must have built-in redundancy, be able to withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and other environmental factors.

The power system must be highly reliable and safe to use, EMI/EMC compatible, provide for redundancy, climate resistance (extreme temperatures, humidity), and be compact to fit in the limited space.

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Types of Military Power Systems

Military Grade Power Generators

Tactical Hybrid Generators

“Plug-n-play” Energy Hubs

Portable Power Hubs

Batteries and Stored Power

Advanced energy storage systems

Core Power Batteries

Battery Only Storage Systems

Expansion Battery Modules (for UPS)

Uninterrupted Power Supplies

UPS – Military Field-Grade

Military Power Inverters (MINV)

Programmable Power Supply (MPPS)

Military Power Conditioners (MPC)

Mil Converters and Filters

Military Grade Power Supply (MPS)

Military VPX Power Supplies

Military 3-Phase AC Changer (MAC)

Military Configurable Power Supplies (MTQ)

Smart Power Management Systems

Intelligent Power Management System

Energy Control System

Custom Military Power

Fully-Integrated Systems

Expeditionary Power

Emergency Power Kits

Powerpacks

Power Packs for land & marine systems

Auxillary power packs

Small engines for aircraft and drones

Custom Aerospace Power Supply

Custom Shipboard Power Supply

Custom Power for Ground Equipment

Rugged Power for Comms Equipment

Alternative Fuels

Renewable Energy Sources

Biofuel, Biogas

The post EVENT PREVIEW – Power Systems For Military Applications appeared first on IMR.

Session 1 – Inaugural Session

The seminar was inaugurated by Air Marshal Surat Singh, DG Air Ops, Air HQ. The welcome remarks were given by Air Marshal Anil Chopra, Director General, CAPS. This was followed by an industry perspective provided by Col KV Kuber, Director of Defence and Aerospace, Ernst & Young. The guest speakers also released the EY-IMR knowledge paper on Air & Missile Defence.

Air Marshal Anil Chopra commenced his introductory statements by addressing the protracted conflict in Ukraine, which has persisted for sixteen months, despite the substantial casualties incurred by both opposing factions. The vulnerabilities manifest themselves through the widespread deployment of tanks, drones, large ships, cruise missiles, and aircraft, which are strategically withheld from entering technical zones due to the presence of formidable air defence systems. The concept of air Denial has been surpassed by both parties involved. Hence, the conflict has once again underscored the significance of the air and missile defence systems. Several key lessons can be derived for India from this conflict, including the imperative of maintaining unhindered supply chains and promoting domestic manufacturing. Additionally, he emphasised the significance of counter-drone technology, which encompasses various tools such as kinetic interception and electromagnetic interdiction. According to Air Marshal Chopra, India is currently developing medium and long-range surface-to-air missiles. However, there is a need to expedite the advancement of cost-effective iterations of missiles and unmanned aircraft. The speaker proposed that the private sector is making significant strides in the field, exemplified by the Kalyani missile creation. This missile was developed through a partnership between Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Ltd and DRDO, and its production involved collaboration with various players in the Indian industry, including both public and private sector entities and MSMEs. The author emphasised the government’s initiatives to promote indigenisation, encompassing both the public and commercial domains.

Air Marshal Surat Singh, DG Air Ops, Air HQ gave the Inaugural Address. He addressed the crucial capabilities of the air defence and missile system in various contexts, including times of peace, periods of uneasy peace, and even in times of war. The activation of this capability is the initial step, while its deactivation is the final action. In certain instances, it persists consistently. It offers both deterrence and the assurance needed to execute air operations. The system encompasses numerous interconnected components and sub-systems that encompass monitoring, control, and the ability to make decisions for destruction swiftly. He highlighted critical advancements in air defence during the last decade while focusing on reducing the size of systems and sub-systems and the increasing lethality of weapons and Unmanned systems, encompassing both offensive and defensive capabilities. He emphasised the evolving nature of operations, which were formerly limited to land but have since expanded into the air and are now expanding into space. He stressed the necessity of successfully encountering the threats. India’s capacity to cope with threats needs jointmanship as well as an exhaustive capability. The endeavour is to be made not in isolation but as a team. Therefore, the diverse range of threats necessitates an air defence system that can enhance capabilities and multiply abilities multiple-fold. This will entail utilising expedited, reliable, and fortified decision-making mechanisms alongside a fusion of active and passive sensors to generate a comprehensive representation. He concluded by emphasising the interaction between a user and a manufacturer during the initial stages of development of any system is crucial to the smooth transmission of situational awareness and the successful incorporation of the decision-making tool.

Col KV Kuber, Director of Defence and Aerospace, Ernst and Young, provided the defence industry perspective. He stated that the Indian Air Force was responsible for safeguarding the entirety of the nation’s airspace, which encompasses the island territories and offshore facilities and falls within the jurisdiction of the air defence identification zone. In order to effectively safeguard the expansive airspace, it is imperative to implement a strategy that involves the proactive positioning of surface-to-air missiles, the utilisation of countermeasures against advanced technologies, the establishment of surveillance systems and radar networks, as well as the deployment of short-range surface-to-air missiles to deter and neutralise aerial incursions. Col Kuber emphasised the significance of the heightened dissemination of quantum technologies, the integration of quantum into military operations, and the transformative impact it will have on the character of warfare. The speaker provided an explanation regarding the distinction between quantum and linear phenomena, highlighting the pervasive nature of the former in contrast to the latter. During his discourse, he also referred to the hypersonic glide vehicles. In order to effectively address the issue, it is advisable to develop an anti-missile capability that facilitates the straightforward identification of these entities. The speaker concluded his discourse by comparing the escalating military expenditures of the United States and China and subsequently deliberated on the appropriate course of action for India considering this development. In order to augment its capabilities, the government has pursued collaboration with the private sector to develop advanced weaponry. It will be stipulated to be productive.

SESSION 2 – EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES AND INDUSTRY CAPABILITIES

Session 2 was chaired by Air Vice Marshal Tarun Chaudhry, Asst Chief of Air Staff Ops (Projects), Air HQ. He emphasised technology’s importance in shaping a conflict’s contours. Therefore, it is essential for all parties involved to acknowledge and adapt to new challenges brought about by technological advancements in the context of warfare. He underlined the need to develop an appropriate industrial environment for research and development to quickly provide the essential equipment or solutions. Here, timeframe and R&D efforts are of utmost importance.

Gp Capt Prashant Arora, Air HQ, discussed the ‘Lessons in AD from the Russia-Ukraine War.’ As part of the philosophies/concept of operations, he highlighted the DEAD/SEAD missions conducted by the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS), which allowed the Ukrainians to mount an effective air defence response. Russian forces employed Kh-31 and Kh-58 ARMs extensively against Ukrainian ground-based air defence weapons. The Ukrainians also utilised customised MiG-29s equipped with AGM-88 HARM with success.

The Ukrainian PSU’s innovative and flexible air defence systems have prevented the Russian VKS from dominating the sky. Russia’s VKS employed the S-400 in Belarus and Crimea to illustrate its practical air defence doctrine. The surface-to-air missile system of the S-400 was effective at bringing down aircraft. Russian aircraft were forced to fly at low altitudes due to the Ukrainians’ effective use of the S-300 SAM and SA-11. The Pechora system was an effective anti-aircraft armament for the Ukrainians. As part of the anti-missile/SOWs operation, it is impossible to intercept Russian Tochka-U and Iskander missiles due to a lack of adequate interceptor missiles. Between 80% and 90% of Ukrainian missiles were intercepted by the Russian S-400. Intercepting Russian “Zircon,” “Vanguard,” and “DF-ZF” hypersonic cruise missiles during anti-hypersonic operations is complex. He stated that the Russian VKS Integrated Air Defence System (IADS) had little effect on the efficacy of the air defence network. Active AD capability and passive AD measures against missiles/ SOWs/ HCMs/HGVs are essential for assuring survivability. AWACS and AEW&C are crucial enablers for AD Operations. The development of future AD capabilities must be prioritised, and plans must account for detecting and eliminating low RCS threats.

Brig Manish Kumar, Brig AAD Ops, Army HQ, discussed the ‘Emerging Air Threat: Challenges to Ground Based Air Defence Weapon Systems (GBADWS) from Recent Conflicts.’ He addressed the concept of air threat in its state of being and air threat in its manifestation. Air threats encompass various factors, including numerical strength, quantity, aircraft types, capabilities, operational ranges, refuelling capabilities, and tactical approaches. “Air Threat Manifestation” refers to the strategic process of developing and implementing measures to mitigate air defence risks. The manifestation of air threats necessitates the management of stand-off threats, limited stand-off threats, and dynamic threats. He emphasised the increase in the variety of air attack instruments and the expansion of the range of potential threats, including remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAs) and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Additionally, they mentioned the emergence of futuristic air threats such as hypersonic and hyper glide technologies, as well as surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs) and ballistic missiles. Furthermore, they noted the resurgence of conventional dumb bombs, explicitly referring to rocket-boosted kinetic energy (REK) weapons and gliding munitions. According to Brig Manish Kumar the VKS air operation in Russia is limited to the Central Military District (CSFO) and activities related to air defence. The initial chapter operations yielded successful outcomes. The initial attacks were limited to Stand Off Launches utilising Kh series Cruise Missiles and ARMs. However, they were effectively countered by the Ukrainian S-300 air defence systems. Moreover, the SHAHED-136 introduction was employed in Ukraine. The term “three-layer air defence” is a misnomer. Each layer must be designed to address a specific type of threat. To address various levels of threat, encompassing stand-off threat, limited stand-off threat, and dynamic threat, it becomes imperative to implement a comprehensive array of mitigation measures. He identified the prerequisites for comprehensive air defence solutions, which include low radar cross-section (RCS) surveillance, low-level surveillance, and stealth surveillance. The layout challenges faced by the defence industry encompass several key aspects, including the miniaturisation of components, the management of electromagnetic interference and electromagnetic compatibility in limited spaces, the ability to handle multiple targets simultaneously, and the development of cost-effective electronic identification friend or foe (IFF) solutions.

Sh Vasudev Ramakrishna, Scientist F, LRDE, DRDO, discussed the ‘New Developments in Radars for Detection, Tracking Threats and Targeting.’ He deliberated on radars concerning air and ballistic missile defence. Modern radar systems possess various applications, encompassing areas such as ballistic missile defence, air defence, weapon designation, reconnaissance, commercial utilisation, weather monitoring, and interplanetary investigations. The radar may be categorised as surveillance radars, which possess a mechanical rotation fixed RPM, offer volumetric search capabilities, have fixed target update intervals, and exhibit limited range and angular resolution as well as accuracies; track radars, designed for tracking a single target, have limited search capabilities; and multiple radars for diverse threats, which are specialised in their respective functions and have limited programmability. To construct a unified multifunction radar system in the future, it will be necessary to address various components of radar sub-systems, including waveform agility (such as low pulse repetition frequency and medium pulse repetition frequency, as well as target radar cross-section estimation), as well as the programmability of radar modes (such as air defence and ballistic missile defence).

SESSION 3 – EMERGING THREATS, SURVEILLANCE AND DETECTION

Air Vice Marshal Anil Golani, Additional Director General, Centre for Air Power Studies, chaired session 3. He emphasised the importance of hypersonic weapons and the difficulties faced by current countermeasures in addressing them. In contrast to ballistic missiles that can be easily intercepted and monitored, identifying hypersonic missiles poses a significant challenge. To effectively tackle these challenges, it is imperative to embrace technological advancements.

Air Commodore SM Paranjpe, Team Ldr, Project AD Services Interface Gp, Air HQ addressed the challenges associated with ballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as stand-off weapons. He gave an account of the historical background of hypersonics, with particular emphasis on ‘The Great Extinction Event’ that occurred approximately 66 million years ago, resulting in the extinction of all dinosaur species. It also emphasised the historical, contemporary, and prospective dimensions of hypersonic weaponry; and furnished an extensive account of the fundamental principles underlying hypersonic velocities, elucidating various attributes of hypersonics, ultrasonics, supersonics, and related phenomena. He elucidated the distinct challenges associated with stand-off weapons by examining the ballistic trajectory and orbital trajectory within the classification of ballistic armaments. He discussed the tactical obstacles associated with air defence, specifically focusing on four key aspects: being situated beyond the radar horizon and at a low altitude, operating at high altitudes and speeds, flying at low altitudes and high speeds, and possessing small or stealthy characteristics. He gave insight into the origins of the challenges, specifically highlighting the Anti-Hypersonic Weapons Technology Challenge and the requisite scientific expertise. He concluded by directing attention towards the main points to be learned and the actions being implemented to address them, categorising them into three distinct areas: Technology, Organisation, and Operations.

Sh Nandakumar S, Scientist F, LRDE, DRDO, gave an insight into ‘the OTH Radar for Peninsular & Chinese Front: a Perspective.’ Considering that OTH Radars operate at high frequencies, he emphasised their value. He compared the two Over Horizon (OTH) Radars, such as the Surface Wave OTH (SW OTH) and the Sky Wave OTH (SKW OTH). He emphasised the examination of OTH Radar, specifically highlighting various countries such as Iran, the United Kingdom, the United States, Romania, and Israel and the respective radar systems they possess. He presented an analysis of a separate survey pertaining to the Skywave Over-The-Horizon (OTH) Radar, specifically focusing on the United States. He emphasised the various sub-systems of the SkW OTH Radar, including transmitters, receivers, and Tx Antennas, as well as the techniques and technologies employed within these sub-systems. According to the research conducted by Sh Nandakumar S, developing a Skywave Over-the-Horizon Radar (SkW OTHR) for specifically identified locations is feasible. He emphasised the development of Ionosphere modelling is imperative for SkW OTHR. He proposed that the implementation of the Frequency Management System should be completed within a time-frame of approximately five years. He discussed the advancement of the Surface Wave Over-the-Horizon Radar (OTHR) for the Indian Navy, specifically in the Gujarat Peninsula, which is nearing completion. It is anticipated that the radar system will become operational within a year. Additionally, Nandakumar highlighted the forthcoming development of the Two-L shape (180* Coverage) SkW OTHR for Sea/Air Surveillance, which is expected to be completed within a time-frame of 5-7 years. This technological advancement is anticipated to provide the Indian Armed Forces with enhanced capabilities to assess the Chinese front. 

SESSION 4 – AIR DEFENCE COUNTERMEASURES

Air Vice Marshal PV Shivanand, Asst Chief of Air Staff (Air Defence), Air HQ chaired the session. He highlighted that conventional air defence was designed to detect certain airborne flight objects. In recent times, there have been changes in the basic detection capability; and multiple new threats challenge the domain of air defence. We need to address it on priority.

Wg Cdr KJ Antony, Joint Director AD, Air HQ, presented his views on ‘Countering Stealthy Aerial Threats.’ His presentation centred around four fundamental domains pertaining to the attainment of stealth capabilities. These domains encompassed the concept of stealthy aerial threats, their potential ramifications on air operations, as well as the strategies employed to counteract such threats, encompassing both existing and future technologies. He perceived stealth as a fusion of technological elements aimed at evading or prolonging the process of detection. For example, stealth aircraft must possess minimal signatures across various electromagnetic (EM) spectrum domains, including radar, infrared, acoustics, and visual signature. In order to attain stealth capabilities in a fighter aircraft, it is imperative to strike a delicate equilibrium between the attributes of stealth, manoeuvrability, and cost-effectiveness. The individual emphasised that achieving stealth or low observability can be accomplished by reducing radar cross-section, minimising infrared signature, and diminishing visual signature. He classified stealthy aerial threats into three categories: airborne platforms that employ stealth technology, threats with low radar cross-section (RCS) or low observability, and threats that do not require line-of-sight (LOS) engagement, such as terrain-hugging missiles and ballistic missiles. In order to address the challenge posed by covert airborne threats, the individual in question proposed the implementation of an anti-stealth system capable of functioning autonomously or in conjunction with other systems. This system would utilise multiple sensors to generate a comprehensive air situation depiction, thereby enhancing the likelihood of successful detection. Ultimately, he emphasised the importance of space-based systems to mitigate the risks posed by stealth aerial threats in forthcoming times.

Cdr Viraat Shiggaon, Cdr Staff Requirements, Naval HQ, explained the ‘AD Countermeasures: Naval Perspective.’ He focused on the growing dangers in the maritime sphere and the accompanying advances in AD technology of the future. While marine air defence (AD) is generally comparable to other services, the sea presents unique obstacles. Cooperative engagement is made possible by both long- and medium-range SAMs. The evolution of modern air defence weaponry is motivated by the changing geopolitical landscape. It serves as an anti-access/area-denial mechanism. Since its final velocity is so incredible, it cannot be stopped by traditional AD systems. The use of decoys and MIRVs increases the difficulty of engagement. The topic of the operations of unmanned vehicles and swarm drones was discussed. It is a low-priced A2/AD weapon that regular armies and insurgents can deploy. He discussed potential future technologies for naval air defence, focusing on “the electromagnetic railgun,” which is affordable and can engage supersonic targets at extended ranges; “laser/microwave weapons,” which can engage hypersonic weapons/anti-drone systems; and “anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) interceptors,” which can engage ASBMs during both the boost and re-entry phases. He ended by stressing the importance of indigenisation, the introduction of cutting-edge technology and innovations, and the creation of counter-technologies.

Brig. OP Vaishnav, AAD Dte, Army HQ explained ‘Countering Unmanned Aerial Threats – Future Roadmap.’ He focused on how the aerial danger posed by Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) has changed over time. UAS include anything from tiny quad/hexa copters to huge fixed-wing military UAVs. There are three levels of threat – superficial, intermediate, and severe. He pointed out that India’s rivals on both sides can now produce and build unmanned aerial systems on their own. The Burraq, Barq LGB, Wingloong-10, CH-4, Shahpar-2, and Sharp Sword are among the dangerous autonomous weapon systems they want to modernise with. Surveillance, identification, and tracking; microprocessors or calculating a firing solution; and interdiction were the three pillars he emphasised under the Counter UAS system pillars.

Sh Amit Kumar, Scientist F, PGAD, DRDO, presented his views on ‘Countering the Threat from Ballistic and Hypersonic Missiles and Stand-off Weapons.’ The increased range and precision of ballistic missiles, their potential use by non-state actors, and the diffusion of ballistic missile technology were all issues he brought up, as was the danger posed by ballistic missiles in the Indian subcontinent, he said. India needs a ballistic missile defence system because of its no-first-use (NFU) nuclear strategy. Ballistic, subsonic, and supersonic cruise missiles are the current go-to options for delivering warheads across vast distances. Using hypersonic glide vehicles, hypersonic cruise missiles, and MARVs by adversaries is a common strategy for countering and penetrating missile defences. An emerging danger is the hypersonic glide vehicle. Low altitude gliding, high manoeuvrability, re-targeting area, and high cross-range capability to plan the glide path allow it to penetrate enemy ballistic missile defence while engaging time-critical targets like ballistic missile launch pas/silo, deeply buried command centres, air bases, warships, and tactical targets.

Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retd), Director General, CAPS, delivered his closing remarks at the conclusion of the ideation sessions. Air Marshal Chopra commended the astute presentations and notable presence of all panellists, as well as the intellectually stimulating questions posed by the audience.

The seminar ended with a Vote of Thanks by Maj Gen Ravi Arora, Chief Editor Indian Military Review.

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Advanced Materials For Defence & Aerospace

The Centre for Joint Warfare Studies and Indian Military Review are organising Advanved Materials for Defence & Aerospace 2023 seminar & exhibition on 22 Nov 2023 at New Delhi.

Steel, copper, aluminium, titanium, cupronickel, tungsten, composites, and ceramics are the primary metallic/non-metallic material groups used in aerospace and defence production. These elements are combined with other metals, including nickel, cobalt, vanadium, zinc, antimony, molybdenum, borates, chromium, germanium, and lithium, to create specialised alloys. These alloys are then machined into the necessary shapes and sizes after undergoing specific treatments such as forging and casting to make them lighter, stronger, and blast-resistant.

Aluminium alloys, titanium alloys, steels, and composites make up the primary categories of materials utilised in aeronautical constructions. In addition to these elements, nickel-based alloys are essential jet engine structural materials.

India relies on China, Russia, the US, Brazil, Australia, and the Congo (DRC) for advanced materials for defence & aerospace. Military industries rely primarily on imports, while certain indigenous materials have replaced them. Dependence on imports limits the ability of Indian companies to export defensive equipment/platforms, limiting the country’s defence industrial ecosystem.

India imports $2 billion in essentials annually, according to estimates. Domestic production of these minerals may reduce import prices and decouple important military assets from geopolitical uncertainty.

Other materials have specialised uses for specific aircraft types, although they are only sometimes used in significant numbers. Examples include magnesium alloys, fibre-metal laminates, metal matrix composites, wood, ceramics for heat-insulating tiles for rockets and spacecraft, and radar-absorbing materials for stealth military aircraft.

Many additional materials are also utilised in aircraft: copper for electrical wiring, semiconductors for electronic devices, and synthetic fabrics for seating and other furnishings. However, none of these materials is required to carry a structural load.

Rarely does a single material have all the necessary qualities for an aircraft’s construction and powerplant. Instead, mixtures of materials are used to provide the optimal balance of cost, performance, and security.

Glaring Gap in India

Mineral-rich India supplies most key mineral and ore classifications. India possesses 18 percent of the world’s ilmenite reserves (titanium oxide minerals, which produce high-performance metal parts such as artificial human body parts, aircraft engine parts, sporting equipment, synthetic rutile, pigments, etc.)

India produces about 200 million tonnes of iron ore and 13 percent of the world’s bauxite output. However, India imports more essential metals and alloys.

Most Indian defence businesses, DPSUs, and DRDO labs import raw materials. HAL, the largest DPSU, imported raw materials worth Rs 3,629.4 crore ($ 500 million) in 2018-19. Six Indian defence businesses imported high alloy steel worth Rs 5250 crore in 2018-19. ($700 million). India produces composite components from glass, carbon, and aramid fibres, but not Kevlar or aircraft-grade carbon fibre.

Indigenous systems like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk 1A, which has a 45 percent carbon composite airframe, rely heavily on imports.

Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, Medium Weight Fighter (MWF) Tejas MK 2, and fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) will utilise carbon composite airframes (AMCA).

Challenges to Atmanirbharta in Material Science

Material grades have restricted purchase quantities. These orders are typically below a firm’s lucrative minimum order quantity (MoQ). Order numbers are unsustainable because specific material grades have minimal or no dual-use potential. Thus, businesses cannot recuperate the expenditures of creating indigenous capabilities for these critical minerals compared to their commercial uses.

Any defence platform’s designer specifies its materials. Thus, foreign platform material requirements are based on local norms, specifications, and material availability.

For exotic material development, India requires better testing facilities. The lack of testing facilities raises research costs and slows material development, making the nation reliant on imports.

Military material and alloy suppliers have another challenge: obtaining authorised sources. Most multinational OEMs have approved suppliers with long-term contracts for each programme. These OEM-associated vendors are vital to the supply chain. OEMs seldom swap suppliers since it’s expensive. Thus, getting sourcing certification for numerous suppliers to increase volume and lower unit cost is difficult.

Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR) of April 2013 says: “Advances in nanotechnology will drive the next paradigm shift in military capabilities. Nano-technology would usher in light weight, strong, multifunctional advanced materials for use in combat systems, while enhancing surveillance, protection and connectivity. Nanotechnology should give rise to new materials which in themselves are multi-functional with entirely new properties. Such materials may reduce ower and weight requirements, increase protection of platforms and durability and thereby enhance operational effectiveness of platforms. Carbon composites, metal matrix composites, stealth coatings, self-healing materials, adaptive camouflage materials and structures and smart skin materials shall be the main structural materials for the future combat and support systems. Capability for development of Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) based sensors, actuators, RF devices and focal plane arrays would also need to be developed.

Power of Policy

Policy-level initiatives by the GoI and government entities and stakeholders are underway. The DAP 2020 proposal that emphasises domestic military material sources is the most important. DAP 2020 addresses some of the major issues highlighted above.

• Service Headquarters (SHQ) analyses the material composition at the RFI stage for projects other than “Buy-Global” to see whether indigenous materials are feasible. If the material is not created locally, explore Transfer of Technology (ToT) under the “Buy and Make” area.

• DPSU/PSU platform manufacturers, R&D facilities, and SHQ must conduct environmental scans to discover materials that may be created in the nation via the following channels for future needs.

• Phased material development by platform manufacturers and R&D organisations using their resources or the Indian industry is encouraged.

• Inclusion of ToT for manufacturers and authentication of materials by production agencies in licenced manufacturing projects (Pas).

• Seeking and prioritising/promoting ToTs for military supplies in exchange for Indian industry offsets. Adopting ‘Make’ or Technology Development Fund (TDF) programmes for material development.

In addition, DAP 2020 specifies a procedure and incentives for platform manufacturers to use indigenously created materials in procurement.

Systematic Overhaul to Foster Capability

Government and industry must collaborate on long-term domestic capability development. A think tank or nodal body should aggregate incentives from several ministries into a strategic material strategy with frequent milestone monitoring.

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Advanced Materials for Defence

The following metals and alloys are finding wide use in Defence & Aerospace applications.

•             Aluminum Alloys

•             Titanium Alloys

•             Stainless Steel

•             Nickel-Based Superalloys

•             Cobalt-Based Superalloys

•             High-Strength Steel Alloys

•             Composite Materials

•             Tungsten and Tungsten Alloys

•             Beryllium

•             Magnesium Alloys

Advanced Materials for the Air Force

Some of the common advanced materials and their purposes/functions in fifth-generation fighter jets are:

•             Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP)

•             Titanium Alloys

•             Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)

•             Stealth Coatings

•             Advanced Aluminum Alloys

•             Graphene-Based Materials

•             Advanced Ceramic Materials

•             Advanced Stealth Composites

Advanced Materials for Warships and Submarines

Advanced materials play a significant role in the construction of warships and submarines, providing enhanced strength, durability, and performance. Some of the advanced materials and their purposes are:

•             High-Strength Steel

•             Aluminum Alloys

•             Composite Materials

•             Titanium Alloys

•             Non-Skid Decking

•             Advanced Ceramics

•             Acoustic and Sonar Materials

•             Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP)

Advanced Materials for Land Systems and Missiles

A wide variety of advanced materials are utilized in artillery guns, battle tanks, and missiles to improve performance, durability, and overall effectiveness. Here are some of them:

•             High-Strength Steel

•             Composite Armor

•             Reactive Armor.

•             Ceramic Materials

•             Titanium Alloys

•             Advanced Propellant Materials

•             Advanced Guidance System Materials

•             Composite Materials for Missile Airframes

Recent Developments in Advanced Materials

Some of the latest developments in advanced materials for defense and aerospace include:

•             Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs)

•             Graphene

•             Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)

•             Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)

•             Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs)

•             Bio-inspire zHigh-Performance Composites

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Recent Developments

Indian Armed Forces are looking at procurement of 30 x HALEs, may be in a phased manner to meet the strategic requirements, while efforts are on to build an indigenous pseudo satellite for the same.

Under the Make-II category of acquisition, the Indian Army has granted an Approval In-Principle (AIP) for Integrated Drone Detection and Interdictions System, a feasibility is underway for Autonomous – Surveillance And Armed Drone Swarm (Desert/plains) {A-SADS(desert/ plains) and Autonomous – Surveillance And Armed Drone Swarm High Altitude Area {A-SADS (HAA)}. Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) has been granted for 35 Drone Kill Systems worth INR 78.36 crore for Indian Army in 2021 under Make-II.

Naval Ship Borne Unmanned Aerial System (NSUAS) and HALE UAV have been identified under Make-I and Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV) model for development respectively.

In August 2022, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) issued a tender to procure two (2) mini drones with Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS).

Military Applications of UAVs.

Some of the important uses include:

•  Information, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR).

•  Unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAV).

•  Radar and Communication Relay.

•  Mapping Military Logistics.

•  Nuclear Cloud Surveillance.

Armed Drones. ADE has completed the development of the Rustom-2 TAPAS (Tactical Airborne Platform for Aerial Surveillance) MALE UAV (a MQ-1 category drone). HAL will soon start the production of first five units of TAPAS drones.

In total 76 units of this UAV will be ordered by forces. There will be 60 drones for Indian Army, 12 for the Indian Air Force and 4 for the Indian Navy.

Drone Technology

What information technology was in the 90s, drone technology is today. Technologies that the nation needs to invest in, are:

• Powertrain Technology – Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) Motor.

• Powertrain Technology – Fuel-Run Motor

• Powertrain Technology – Electronics

• Flight Controller

• Battery Technology

• Datalink Technology

• Making Bandwidth Available For Civilian Use

Some emerging technologies have the potential to enhancing effectiveness of drones, viz,

(a)  Artificial Intelligence.

(b)  Internet of Things (IoT).

Indian Air Force

A Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) is a planned unmanned and manned combat aircraft air teaming system being developed by HAL, which is of interest to the IAF. An armed stealth drone will team up and fight alongside IAF fighters to hit high-value enemy targets. It is designed to carry out MUM-T Operations.

The Unmanned Wingman will be connected to a heavily upgraded IAF Jaguar fighter bomber.

HAL is designing & developing AI powered, stealthy autonomous swarm drones known as ALFA-S

DRDO is developing the Ghatak which is an UCAV for the IAF. The Aura UCAV will be a tactical stealth aircraft capable of delivering laser-guided strike weapons.

Indian Army

The army’s existing unmanned systems’ fleet comprises Heron medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAVs, and the smaller Searcher Mark II tactical drones.

The Army plans to buy high-tech unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to strengthen its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities and improve the effectiveness of its military operations.

Indian Navy

The Indian Navy currently operates Israeli-origin Heron and Searcher Mk-II UAVs, but neither is shipborne. It also has Sea Guardian drones on lease.

The Indian Navy announced its plans, in June 2022, to acquire 40 Naval Unmanned Aerial Systems (NUAS) for more than 100 meters long warships.

Research & Development

DRDO tested, in early-July 2022, the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator, which is a major step ahead of developing unmanned aerial combat vehicles (UCAV), primarily for the Indian Air Force.

Countering Drones

Drones are hard to detect, do not have a significant visual, radar, infra-red or noise signature, and require minimal infrastructure to launch and control. Drones are best countered by effective jamming and laser systems.

DRDO’s D-4 anti-drone system can provide both “soft kill” (jamming of hostile drones) and “hard kill” (a laser-based destruction method) options to the military to tackle fast-emerging aerial threats. It has been used for VIP protection on National Days’ events.

Adani Defence & Aerospace has linked with DRDO and Israel’s Elbit Systems to begin deploying counter-UAS equipment in some of the country’s major airports.

UAV Industry

The union government made a serious paradigm shift in the drone industry by announcing ‘Drone Shakti’ in Budget 2022. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that the initiative will also help establish Drones-As-A-Service. With ‘drone as a service’ the government says start-ups will be promoted to facilitate ‘Drone Shakti’ through various use cases and applications.

According to the Civil Aviation Minister, by 2026, the Indian drone industry will achieve a turnover of over Rs 15,000 crore. India is home to 270 startups in the drone technologies business. He has stated that the country will be a global leader in drones by 2030.

The government announced the Production-Linked Incentive scheme on 16 Sep 2021 which provides for funding 20 per cent of the “value addition” made by the company during the next three years.

By 2025, India is forecasted to be the world’s third-largest drone market. The Government of India is planning to make India a Global Drone Hub by 2030, and expects total turnover of the drone manufacturing industry to increase from ₹ 60-80 crore to ₹ 900 crore by FY 2024.

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The Centre For Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) and Indian Military Review organised the Night Vision & Electro-optics India 2023 seminar and exhibition in New Delhi on 5 Jan 2023.

The aim of the seminar was to bring together all the stakeholders in discussing and resolving issues pertaining to building night vision capability of the Armed Forces. ‘Divyadrishti’ as highlighted by Kautilya is equally applicable in today’s scenario for battlefield transparency in land, sea and air in all wars for triumphing the observation part of OODA loop. The Night Vision and Optronics devices provide the capability to the soldier for finding, fixing and finishing activities of the war fighters and enhance their observation, detection, identification and killing capabilities. Unprecedented proliferation of dual use technology facilitates innovative employment of night vision devices. With mobiles in use, now each and every citizen has turned into intelligence sensors. The focus areas of the warfare these days include large borders and huge weather challenges; therefore whoever controls the night will win the battle. The night vision devices are true force multipliers and need to focus on mass effect not the forces. With the changes in technology bringing in Artificial Intelligence for imagery processing and see through armour and focus on obscurance – aerosol and active decoys, the focus on night vision devices will increase manifold in times to come. The users, private industry and DPSUs must come together to create an environment, which overcomes the procedural bottlenecks and ensures self sufficiency in this field, which will also be aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Eminent speakers underscored the salience of situational awareness in the emerging Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) matrix and how Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives are critical in major defence areas having potential for defence exports by India. There are 46 ongoing projects worth over Rs 47,000 crore, where the industry is engaged with the Indian Army. The Army Design Bureau has been energized as the lead agency together with the various directorates to take the initiatives ahead. The requirements for the night capability have been shared with the industry. Night fighting assumes added importance since surprise and deception are better achieved during the hours of darkness. CI/CT commitments demand constant vigil along the LC, LAC and in the hinterland.

Sizeable investment in this cutting edge technology area is essential and to address infiltration and enable military operations. Investments in border surveillance equipment, BFSR and weapon mounted sights is paramount. The need for II sights for short ranges and TI sights for longer ranges is inescapable. Night sights are being provisioned for frontline troops as per a phased roadmap. There is a need to indigenise EO sights with a realistic cost factor, incorporating latest technologies through a public private partnership. Industry must assist in evolution of service QRs based on emerging technologies, provisioning of simulators for modern training infrastructure, research and development efforts, explore fusion of II and TI technology, innovation of light weight equipment and compact power sources. There is a need to exploit the IDEX and TDF schemes, with accelerated timelines, with enhanced synergy between industry and users.

DRDO labs have provided several solutions for Electro Optics and there are many products under induction, to include weaponisation of HHTI, Project Dharashakti and Driver’s Night Sight. Recent advancements in II technology and digitised battlefield call for advanced EO System requirements (ie, range, field of view and recognition capabilities). There is a need to overcome challenges to empower our Armed Forces, so as to reduce weight and size of night vision devices for effective data and image fusion. The trends point towards Combat Goggles and future weapon systems, C4I2SR and exoskeletons. EO Systems under development include Optical Shields, Handheld Ground Penetrating Radar (HHGPR), Vehicle Mounted Ground Penetrating Radar (VMGPR) and Through Wall Imaging Radar (TWIR).

Major Issues Discussed in the Seminar

The seminar provided a platform for sharing visions, capabilities, challenges and solutions as follows:-

•  The DRDO and industry highlighted their capabilities and the ability to produce innovative solutions, especially the following to meet the requirements of the forces:-  

(I) Latest night vision technologies and challenges.

(ii) Infra Red (IR) detection for defence applications.

(iii) Products and solutions in Electro Optics.

(iv) Artificial Intelligence (AI) in surveillance.

(v) Contribution towards self reliance in thin films and night vision optics.

• The services highlighted their NVD and EO requirements, especially for Infantry, Artillery, AFVs and Army Aviation. The process of trials of NVDs by Directorate General of Capability Development, IHQ of MoD (Army) was also explained in detail for the benefit of the industry representatives.

• Challenges in border management at night were highlighted by the BSF representative.

Armed Forces Requirements

Infantry Requirements. The Infantry requires II+TI sights and devices for assault rifles and LMGs, TI sights for MMG, AGS, Snipers and 84 mm RL. A mix of PNVG, PNVB, HHTI and HHTI (UC) form part of these requirements. In times to come, the user seeks indigenisation of critical technologies (to include TI Sensors, Micro Channel Plates (MCP) and Fire Control System (FCS)) to improve technical thresholds (Figure of Merit (FoM), Graphene, AI), development of fusion technology (TI and II) and in house R&D by the production agencies.

Army Aviation Requirements. The Army Aviation projected the requirement of light weight, long lasting, all weather panoramic NVGs, with colour symbology, superimposing mission symbols on outer scenery with common Heads up Display (HUD) accessories for day and night flying and NVG simulators and dark rooms.

Mechanised Forces Requirements. The following requirements for AFVs were highlighted:-

(I)   Combined day/night EO sights for NSVT 12.7 mm Gun operated remotely.

(ii) Head Mounted Displays – Real Time Zero Latency Video Feed – See Through Armour, Common Operational Picture for crew, Holistic Battlefield Management System (BMS) – integration with Identification of Friend and Foe (IFF)/Situational Awareness (SA), so as to attain 360 degree close hatch fighting capability in diverse operational situation and varied terrain.

(iii) Local situational awareness – automated processing with fusion technology.

(iv) Recce Troop – night enablement for 7.62 mm armament.

(v) Integration of EO Feed from three dimensional assets (smart sensors) for Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) capability.

(vi) Technology induction – enhanced operational effective AFVs – Manned – Unmanned Teaming (MUMTs)/integrated surveillance and target systems.

(vii) Survivability – adaptive camouflage, Multi Spectral Camouflage Nets (MSCN).

Artillery Requirements. The Artillery and SATA requirements projected were as follows:-

(I)   Ultra long range Electro-Optic Devices.

(ii)  Higher resolution (Ultra High Definition (UHD), High Definition (HD)) for better identification capability.

(iii) Integration of multiple sensors (IR, Short Wave Infra Red (SWIR)/Medium Wave Infra Red (MWIR), LRF) for all weather surveillance.

(iv) Surveillance and targeting capability at higher ranges.

(v) AI enabled change detection, alarm system and auto generation of target profile.

(vi) All weather, more robust, light weight with better ergonomics.

(vii) More options of communication-wireless, High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) and video.

(viii) Remote control at larger distances to save manpower.

(ix) Integration with battle surveillance system for online analysis.

Air Force Requirements. The Air Force needs night vision devices to meet its multiple operational roles. Laser Range Finders (LRF) are required for target range determination and target sighting. The following night vision device requirements were highlighted:-

(i) Be platform specific, with optimised weight suitable for platforms, meeting desired power and cooling requirements.

(ii) Have multi spectral capability.

(iii) Have light weight, compatibility, commonality, good visual acuity, all weather operations capability, mission recording and playback system for digital video recording and mission debrief tool.

(iv) Indigenisation is desired, so as to have reduced Turn Around Time (TAT) for repairs and reduced OEM dependency.

Indian Navy Requirements. The Navy projected the following night vision devices requirements for its maritime environment, ship borne, airborne and special naval operations:-

(i) Sensors and weapons to operate in marine environment under all weather conditions.

(ii) Special propagation conditions in terms of scattering, absorption and contrast.

(iii) All round 24×7 surveillance, detection and tracking.

(iv) Stabilisation – Roll/Pitch/Yaw.

(v) Military standards to withstand harsh marine environment.

(vi) Interface with ships systems (combat management system) for generating targeting solution for weapons.

(vii) Detection of all kinds of targets (to include surface ships, small crafts/submarine periscope, aircraft (Fighter/Maritime Reconnaissance (MR)/Helo/ (viii) Multi-spectral devices for assured performance under all conditions of propagation and target characteristics.

(ix) Integrated LRF to assess the range of target.

(x) Helmet mounted NVDs with four tube and four eyepiece configuration for better field of view. Additional features of ‘Auto Gating’ and ‘White Phosphorus Display’ were explained.

(xi) NV Monocular – NV capability for single eye with ocular for the other (Gen III and above).

Border Security Force. The border and battlefield night vision requirements projected include Thermal Weapon Sights, PNVDs, Weapon Alternative Processors (WAPs), IR Pan Tilt Zoom (PTZ) Cameras, Good Night Vision Pay Loads with Drones, Optical Target Locating System for detection of snipers, fog penetration radar devices and foliage penetration radar devices.

Industry Capabilities

The industry has the capability to meet most of the border and battlefield requirements.

The industry showcased its capability to make most of the products required by the services in the short term. Tata Advances Systems Limited (TASL) presented their products and solutions in EO Domain to include Remote Control Weapon System for 7.62 mm LMG, Stabilised EO solutions and uncooled TI based handheld systems.

Work is in the pipeline to meet the evolving and future needs of IAF.                       

For the Indian Navy, numerous key technologies to deliver the required specifications have already been harnessed. The industry was hopeful of meeting the evolving and the future Naval requirements and development of systems accordingly.

Sourcing of few components such as, Integrated Circuit (IC) tubes, are still ex import and involve large lead time. Atmanirbhar route could drive technological transformation for which Industry is ready to be the key enabler.

TASL presented their products and solutions on Sighting System for AFVs, Remote Control System for 12.7 mm guns and Stabilised EO System.

IRDE showcased Driver Night Sight for T-90 tank for fused technology based on uncooled TI technology and its Laser Fence.

TASL presented their products and solutions on Multi Long Range Surveillance Platforms – RAJAK ULR-25, Advanced System of LORROS, lightest in its class, detection of vehicles in excess of 32 km with high definition sensor version of it and Direct Fire Sight for Artillery Guns.

R&D Imperatives

In order to meet the medium and long term requirements of the services, especially through the Atmanirbhar route, adequate R&D needs to be undertaken, so as to meet these needs indigenously.

R&D in futuristic technologies needs to be funded and the pace needs to be accelerated.

The development of NVG simulators is inescapable and needs to be progressed expeditiously.

Joint ventures for the current technology and future upgrades are essential. IRDE may transfer the existing capabilities on ToT to private industry and focus on futuristic technologies. OEM mandated production and repair procedure need to be replicated. Strong R&D base and indigenous technology are essential. Training on simulators and live/ sectionised equipment is essential to improve skill sets.

There is a need to combine means for enhancing surveillance and get the latest technology either developed in house or by ToT from other countries. 

Integrated capability development plan is essential, wherein, all common equipment for border and battlefield surveillance (including for military and CAPF) needs to be procured by one service, duly considering commonality and standardization, which will lead to cost cutting.

Key Takeaways

Salient takeaways which emerged during the course of the seminar are as follows:-

•  The Indian Industry, DRDO and PSUs have the desired capability to meet most of the current requirements of the services, which needs to be exploited, especially the IRDE capabilities for Electro Optics solutions. Few gaps in capabilities need to be addressed in a synergised manner with participation of DRDO and Private Industry together, especially in areas of multi spectral fusion, miniaturization, autonomous functioning, long battery life and integration with command and control elements using AI.

•  The Atmanirbhar push demands handholding of the Private Industry, which must be encouraged by providing access to in-service equipment/assets and futuristic requirements need to be shared to find innovative solutions.

•  The users essentially desire equipment, which are affordable, adaptable, have ability to be absorbed into existing systems, with modularity, replaceability and repairability. Although Army Design Bureau and various directorates have spelt out the Army’s night vision equipment requirements, these need to be reviewed periodically on emergence of new technologies. The Air Force and Navy too need to regularly share their night vision equipment requirements. The user must formulate realistic GSQRs, based on leading edge technologies to allow faster growth and assist the forces in acquiring the latest equipment with spiral development approach. There is a need for infusion of investment and technology at all levels and greater synergy between all the stake holders. Such synergy and interaction will help demonstrate equipment on offer, share DRDO/OFB/Private Labs for testing and refinement and sharing IP rights to accelerate R&D.

• Sources of some of the critical equipment and spares (such as TI Sensors, Micro Channel Plates and Fire Control System as still ex-import and involve a large lead time. Therefore, indigenization of such critical technology is essential. Following recommendations were made to promote indigenization of such technology:-

(i) Realisation of the timelines in Positive Indigenization Lists (PIL).

(ii) Import of defence equipment to be done only as an exception.

(iii) Encouragement to Indian MSMEs by providing regular incentives.

(iv) Making the military infrastructure available to the industry for testing.

• The future needs demand improvement of technical threshold (FoM, Grephene, AI), fusion of II and TI technology, vision devices, surveillance devices, miniaturization (smaller and lighter devices), loiter munitions equipped with night vision capabilities, to out range the adversary (in detection, identification and recognition fields), cryogenic cooling technology, rearward streaming of every input and its utilization in real time and integration of Geo-referencing/Geo-fencing in night vision devices. The futuristic night vision technology will comprise of enhanced and dual sensor night vision devices for which continuous research and in house R&D by the production agencies are key. The evolving night vision technology for platforms needs to be based on affordability, ability to get absorbed into the existing and futuristic systems, durability, wireless technology, image compression, image fusion to facilitate provisioning of realistic images to the users. Sizeable investment in cutting edge technology and dual use technology development is essential through effective public private partnership and may help in optimum evolution and utilization of latest technology. The Private Industry needs to be encouraged, strengthened and supported with enhanced and assured funding to meet these requirements. IDEX and TDF schemes and other innovations and initiatives need to be exploited to reap dividends.

• There is a need to have the optimum capability of de-camouflaging military objects by use of appropriate devices to achieve penetration through the camouflage. Use of technologies to overcome limitations of camouflage and weather, especially fog and foliage was highlighted by all the users and industry was asked to come up with innovative solutions.

• Night Vision Simulators and modern training infrastructure are needed by all the three services.

• Issues related to in house image processing algorithms, sharing of source code by indigenous vendors, indigenous content verification at the level of Army Design Bureau need to be resolved by the services.

• All stake holders need to meet the timelines stipulated in the procurement process. Existing payment processes are usually slow and need to be improved.

The Ministry of Defence should drive the night vision capabilities, associated GIS and network requirements through a tri-service/joint overarching philosophy and hand hold the industry.

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Inaugural Session

Opening Address. Welcoming all delegates, the Director of CENJOWS, Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, explained that India imports nearly 37% of its requirements of special steel despite the fact that it is the second largest producer of steel. Similarly, it imports several nickel, cobalt and iron based super alloys for use in nuclear reactors, turbines, rocketry and so on. This has strategic implications as well as results in huge financial outgo which is avoidable if we innovate and develop our own manufacturing. The market of Advanced Materials has experienced exponential growth across the world. In India itself, it is growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during 2020-2025. India uses nearly 2 billion dollars of the critical materials annually. In particular, we need to work out short-term and long-term strategies to overcome constraints. It is not an impossible task since India has already displayed its ability to innovate and develop in space and nuclear technology which is at par with the developed countries.

Inaugural Address. Dr Satheesh Reddy, Chairman DRDO & Secretary Defence R&D underscored role of strategic materials in economic growth of the nation. He emphasized that since we lacked the technology to produce advanced composite materials, it was necessary to work out long-term plans for procuring the core materials. The process involved assessing own requirements of the specific materials, ie, how much raw material we hold in the country and how much more we need to import; thereafter, identify countries where it was available and then secure mining rights to source these materials through our indigenous companies for our industry. As regards the processing technology, it was essential to either develop it through own R&D or through partnership with foreign OEMs. He said that we also need to put in place appropriate infrastructure and machinery and finally, the product quality produced should match with the world standards. He listed some generic strategic materials/products like special steels, aluminum, tungsten, carbon fibres, additive manufacturing, semiconductors, silicon wafers, magnets etc. Lastly, he suggested that for synergy, all stake holders should join and follow a time bound strategy to achieve self-reliance.

Industry Perspective. Col KV Kuber, Director Defence & Aerospace, Ernst & Young gave the industry perspective and brought out that Indian industries were engaged in developing composite materials and BEML and Midhani have achieved significant success but still the range of products was small and volumes produced were low. Our industry should not only meet the domestic requirements but also generate capacities for exports.

Key Issues Needing Attention

From the deliberations of the participants from DRDO, Industry and Services it was clear that Indian armed forces are already using numerous indigenous platforms and weapons with indigenously developed composite materials, eg, LCA, AEW&C, Astra, ASAT, BrahMos, Nag ATGM, Arjun MBT Mk 1A, MPR, LLTR, etc, to name a few. Still, a lot needs to be done as domestic consumption of composites was far less when compared, say with China and USA. Just 0.3 kg against 2.5 kg in China and 11 kg in US. The reason was both lack of awareness and technology. The webinar brought into focus some important issues which are briefly explained below: –

• In spite of the tremendous progress, Indian Industry still faces technological challenges in development of composite material in India.

• Indigenous materials are not accepted by the manufacturing industry for several reasons e.g. uncertainty of the specifications, non-availability of appropriate technology and higher cost of the materials.

• Virtual designing of composite materials is in vogue in foreign Industry (e.g., Siemens)

• Indian Composites industry is less R/D intensive and poor IP protected.

• The quality assurance process of DGQA is time consuming and follows archaic practices.

• This single-shell molded structures provide higher strength at lower weight complex shapes hence, should be the focus area of the industry.

• Certification of the composite materials is problem area.

•  Developing indigenous capability in semiconductors remains a challenge.

•  Indian Industry has limited capacity to produce metal and alloy powder for additive manufacturing and molding of small components.

•  Can additive manufacturing be taken up in the military at the field level to avoid disruption/delays in the supply chain?

•  The foreign private industry uses virtual tools like Digital image correlation and Virtual simulation. This can help in structure designing, quality and validation of the product before actual product is manufactured.

Commentary

Research &  Development.  The government of India, in its DPP 2020, has tasked DRDO to work out a strategy in consultation with the Services and collaboration with other scientific and industrial establishments to set up missions for growth in select areas including composite materials which must be pursued vigorously.

Spurred by Make in India, there is a robust demand of composites in India which is rising with CAGR of 8.2% annually. This has given impetus to R&D and indigenous production. Speakers from Midhani and BEML have claimed that their company have several patents. This situation must also exist in the

private industry. Foreign OEM’s are not likely to share the technology which necessarily will have to be developed locally.

Quality Consciousness. There is lack of quality consciousness amongst the medium and small industry. Midhani and DMRL in the government and several private industries have developed multitude of indigenous raw materials to preclude dependence on OEMs. They should transfer the indigenously developed technology to the domestic enterprises to improve the quality of their products for the defence sector. Greater volume of production of the raw materials will reduce the costs of the materials.

Indian industry should adopt new modelling technology which besides saving time and effort will result in better quality product.

Though Regulatory agency ensures maintaining of robust quality standards, its methods are antique. It must make use of virtual processes for evaluation.

Standards and Certification. Considering the stated advantages, DRDO should examine the manufacturing process.

The composite has to conform to the standards. It is the responsibility of the OEM to get the product certified. The challenge is greater in indigenous production of import substitute products.

Indigenous Development and Production. Semiconductors have wide applications and used practically in every electronic circuitry/gadget used in defence, (eg telecommunication, transportation, entertainment etc). Our own domestic industry is making strides but, still we are way behind and import nearly 60-70% of our requirement. To encourage indigenous production, the production policy allows 100% FDI in the semi-conductor to attract investments including from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

80% of metal powders used in the powder metallurgy industry are Iron based powders while 20 %are non-ferrous. India solely depends on imports of iron powders. The drawback of not having indigenous production and the resultant dependence on imports makes for an expensive proposition and depletes market competitiveness. International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) of Government of India is involved in research of metal powders and transfers technology to the industry to take it forward.

Additive Manufacturing. Additive manufacturing technology allows manufacturers to print entire components with precise tolerances. Thereby, improving part reliability and product quality. It came out clearly in the webinar that only small components can be manufactured with this technique. Secondly, large infrastructure is needed which cannot be provided at the field units however, it can be attempted at the base workshops/ base repair depots to manufacture the critical parts.

DRDO and its related industry could upscale their’ designing, development and manufacturing with these new techniques.

Recommendations

On Self-Reliance. Developing own raw material is a key to self-reliance. Disruption in global supply chain will always remain a possibility. Atmanirbharta is the key to avoid it.

Work out short term (5 years) and long-term (15 years) strategies to overcome constraints in advance materials. It is not an impossible task since India has already displayed its ability to innovate and develop in space and nuclear and space technologies which are at par with the developed countries.

Indian R&D institutions like International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), DMRL and Midhani should transfer technology to Indian industries involved in development composites so that do not face constrains such as non- acceptance of the indigenous materials because of uncertainty of its specification, non-availability of the technology and certification.

Research & Development. Secure the processing technology either through own R&D or through partnership with Foreign OEMs. We also need to put in place appropriate infrastructure and machinery.

Because of the need for huge infrastructure and machinery the Additive/30 printing of the critical/non-critical components can be attempted at the BRDs and Base repair depots only. The low volume of production and small size of components are the key constraint. Whether it can remove the supply chain delays is questionable.

Quality Control. Use of virtual tools like Digital image correlation and Virtual simulation can help in structure designing, their quality and validation of the product before actual product be taken up for adoption by DRDO and private industry.

Quality Assurance/ certification agency should explore digital/ virtual evaluation to cut down the time lag in their process of certification.

Conclusion

The webinar on advance materials gave good insight of the issues involved in production of the advance materials, its relevance for Atmanirbharta and role in uplifting the economy of the nation. Self-reliance in Advance materials will give major boost particularly to our defence sector and Indiacould become an export market. Based on the talks from the eminent speakers some doable recommendations have been made for the consideration of the related agencies.

SPEAKERS AND SUBJECTS

SESSION 1 – INAUGURAL SESSION

Welcome Address. Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, AVSM, VSM**, Retd, Director, Centre for Joint Warfare Studies

Inaugural Address. Dr Satheesh Reddy, Chairman DRDO

Industry Perspective. Col KV Kuber, Retd, Director Defence, Ernst & Young.

SESSION 2 -AEROSPACE MATERIALS

Chairperson: Air Mshl SP Wagle, VM, DCIDS (PP & FD), VM, HQ IDS

Mr Umashankar G, Dassault Systemes. “Multiscale Material Modelling for Composite Structure.”

Mr TC Subba Reddy, Gp Director (Composites) ADA. “Challenges in designing the LCA Tejas.”

Dr Vijay Petley, Sc F, GTRE. “Special materials for aero engines.”

Mr Lalan Singh, Regional Technical Manager, Ansys.”Digitize Materials Knowledge with Ansys.”

Dr N Eswara Prasad, OS/Sc H & Director, DMSRDE. “Adv Materials, Products & Systems”

SESSION 3 – MATERIALS FOR MISSILES, ARTY GUNS AND NAVAL WARSHIPS

Special Talk: Dr Madhusudan Reddy, OS & Director DMRL, DRDO.

Chairman: Dr. Seema Vinayak, Scientist ‘H’, Director Solid State Physics Lab

Mr SK Jha, CMD, MIDHANI. “Key challenges in meeting the requirements of advanced materials for defence & aerospace in India”

Mr R Jaiganesh, Director RDAQA (GW&M). “Specifications and standards, QA and certification.”

Cmde Vineet Tiwari, Cmde (Naval Design), “Advanced Materials for naval shipbuilding.”

Mr Dinesh Tallur, Head, Portfolio Devp, Siemens Industry Software India. “Siemens Multimechanics – Multiscale Material Modeling for Characterization

SESSION 4: ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING & 3D PRINTING

Chairman: Lt Gen Sanjay Verma, PVSM, AVSM, VSM**, Retd, Consultant DRDO & former DG Capability Development

Wg Cdr Pratush Anand, 11 BRD, IAF. “Challenges in indigenisation of Su-30 MKI spares”.

Dr. Dwarak Krishnan, Dassault Systemes. “Design and Simulate Additive Manufacturing: Micro to Macroscale.”

Mr Kumarswamy S, Director – Testing Solutions & Engineering Consulting. “Characterizing materials and structures with Digital Image Correlation”

SESSION 5 – SMART AND FUTURE MATERIALS

Chairman: Cdr (Dr) Bhushan Dewan, Retd, M.Tech (Electronics & Telecom Engg) IIT-D, former VP TCS.

Dr M Manivel Raja, Sc F & Group Head, Advanced Magnetic Group, DMRL, DRDO. “Smart Materials for Future Military Electronics Applications”

Col Rajiv Ahlawat, Col PP (Engrs), Army Design Bureau. “Advance materials and 3D printing applications for Indian Army.”

Closing Remarks. Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, AVSM, VSM**, Retd, Director CENJOWS

Maj Gen Ravi Arora, Retd, Chief Editor, Indian Military Review.

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Military equipment often requires power systems that can withstand harsh environments and extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, shock and vibration, and electromagnetic interference – often operate at remote locations and be able to function under a wide range of temperatures.

Military equipment may be required to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance, which means that the power systems must be highly reliable and have long service lives. They must be lightweight and compact, so as to minimize the overall weight of the equipment.

Recent Developments

There have been several recent developments in lightweight, in providing military equipment with a reliable and long-lasting power source that is lightweight and compact, thus increasing the mobility and autonomy of the equipment. Some of the most notable include:

Lithium-ion Batteries: These have a high energy density, which allows for long-lasting power in a lightweight package. They also have a long service life and can be rapidly charged.

Fuel Cells: Highly efficient, lightweight, long-lasting power source, which can operate in remote locations.

Solar Power: Solar panels are a lightweight, long-lasting power source that can be used to generate electricity in remote locations. They can be integrated into military equipment.

Microgrids: Microgrids are small-scale power systems that can be used in remote locations to provide power to a single piece or to a group of equipment.

Hybrid Power Systems: These systems combine multiple power sources, such as batteries, fuel cells, and generators, to provide a reliable and long-lasting power source.

Power Systems for Drones

Small and large drones have different power system requirements, but some general requirements are common to both. Drones have limited space for power systems, so the energy density of the power source must be high to provide a long-lasting power source in a small package. Lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells are commonly used for this reason.

Drones are susceptible to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) issues.

Power Systems for Fighter Aircraft

Fighter aircraft need to power the various systems on the aircraft, other than engines, ie, avionics and weapons systems. Weight is critical, hence, power system must be lightweight as well with high power-to-weight ratio.

For flying for extended periods of time without maintenance, the power system must be highly reliable and safe to use in punishing environments.

Power Systems for Submarines

Submarines have limited space for power systems. They need to be able to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance, in a high-pressure underwater environment, quietly to avoid detection.

Auxiliary power systems for submarines have several special requirements, including Compactness, high reliability, Safety, generate minimal noise and vibration, minimum downtime, and withstand the high pressure and low temperature of the underwater environment.

Power Systems for Soldiers

Soldiers need to carry their own equipment in the field in remote locations and operate in different harsh environment. Power

systems for soldiers must be lightweight to minimize the load on the soldier, must have a high energy density to provide long-lasting power source in a small package and be reliable and safe in a variety of environments.

Power Systems for Tanks

Besides the power pack, tanks require auxiliary power to operate the various systems on the tank, such as weapons systems, and communications equipment. They need to be able to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance.

Power Systems for Military Communications

Military communications have several special requirements, primarily EMI/EMC compatibility, portability and ruggedness.

Missiles and Strategic Systems

Missiles and strategic systems need to be able to operate for extended periods of time without maintenance. They are susceptible to EMI and EMC issues, and have limited space for power systems. Redundancy and safety factors are important in the case of missiles.

Alternate Sources of Power

There are increasing calls for military vehicles and equipment to reduce carbon emissions. Alternate sources of power are being explored.

Electric power can be generated from a variety of sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro, which are all renewable and produce no emissions. Electric power can be stored in batteries and used to power military vehicles and equipment.

Hybrid power systems, combining internal combustion engines with electric motors and batteries can improve the fuel efficiency of military vehicles and equipment.

Fuel cells, which convert chemical energy into electricity and can be powered by hydrogen, a clean-burning fuel that produces only water vapour when burned, can be used to power military vehicles and equipment.

Biofuels, such as biodiesel and bioalcohol, are being tried in transport aircraft. Propane, natural gas, solar energy, are other alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, with lower carbon content, which can be used to power military vehicles and equipment.

Critical Components and Materials

Military grade power sources and power systems require specialized components and materials that can withstand harsh conditions and demanding environments.

Military grade batteries and fuel cells must be able to withstand high temperatures, shock and vibration, and extreme conditions. Lithium-ion batteries and nickel-cadmium batteries are commonly used in military applications due to their high energy density and long service life. Military grade fuel cells typically use platinum and ceramics. Solar panels are typically made with materials such as silicon and glass.

Military grade power electronics, such as inverters and converters, use materials such as silicon and ceramic. Military grade cabling and connectors use materials such as copper and fibre optics.

Seminar Sessions

The seminar will have sessions on the following themes with opportunities for industry to make presentations:

• Industry Capabilities

• Power Packs and Storage Systems for Land Systems & Comms

• Power Supplies for Aerial and Maritime Systems

• Alternative Fuels & Renewable Energy for Military Applications

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