The ongoing trials of the light tank, system upgrade cum overhaul of T72 and the recent RFP to produce Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) have raised many eyebrows. Those professing the obituary of tanks and the exaggerated discourse on its suspect role in future battlespace lie disappointed and professionally misplaced.

The utility of a tank lies in its deployability, employability and capability to be the decisive force. Its optimisation lies in its inclusive role as an agile, lethal, and survivable platform to lead the combined arms team and attain combat overmatch across all spectrums of conflict. Thus, the need to understand the role, desired capabilities, and fleet management perspective.

The operational requirement is essentially based on medium-category tanks with light tanks supplementing its capabilities for marginal terrain like Northern borders. This remains the foundation of future operational and equipment construct.

Modernisation Fundamentals and Upgradation Construct

Modernisation fundamentals are foundational to the GSPS 2032 and fleet management perspective which is holistic, realistic and time sensitive. It is also based on prioritised and tiered modernisation based on value, vulnerability, and risk analysis with judicious scaling to address critical operational imperatives. It also looks at a more holistic and contemporary model of “Lethality, Survivability, Agility, Sustainability, Connectivity, and Affordability” based on the commonality of base platform and technology convergence. The focus on indigenous solutions to Indian warfighting remains paramount.

 The spiral approach to technology induction emphasizes prioritizing functional capabilities, combat effectiveness, and closing capability gaps with existing technologies. Balancing expansion, modernization and sustenance involves harmonising fiscal requirements, standardising platforms, and evaluating the cost-benefit of sustaining legacy equipment to decrease sustainment costs.

Planned upgrades and overhauls aim to extend tank life beyond 32 years, emphasising sub-system, system, and platform upgrades along with field fitment or medium repair or overall interventions. The emphasis is on a lead integrator and expanded facilities requiring careful planning of space, power, and weight (balance) management, during the design stage for ease of adaptability and timely cum short fitment cycle.

AFV Fleet Management Perspective – SUDRO Model

The endeavour to keep the tank fleet in a 30:40:30 profile guides the “Fleet Management Perspective”. The framework accordingly focuses on a balanced approach of sustaining the present fleet, modernisation of legacy fleet to contemporary standards and induction of next-generation platform in a time sensitive domain. It also aims at balancing fleet expansion and fleet modernization within pragmatic resource availability.

 The pillars of this perspective thus must rest on five key aspects; sustain the current fleet and address voids; upgrade legacy fleet to bridge technological gaps till replacement platforms; develop and induct next-generation state-of-the-art replacement platforms; replace obsolete and beyond service life equipment progressively; and optimize indigenous capability for induction through IDDM category.

Translating it entails life extension and periodic upgrades of T 72 to bring its technology capabilities as close to T90; T-90 medium repairs and modernisation upgrades to state-of-the-art technologies; and FRCV to replace beyond-life equipment which is negative to the cost-benefit of sustaining them.

Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV)

The FRCV program amplifies the Indian Army’s push for a modern battle tank with a robust and flexible base platform that can be adopted into a multitude of specialised armoured fighting vehicles. FRCV will offer multiple options for rapid operational employment enabling the Indian Army to execute operations across the entire continuum of conflict against diverse threats of the adversaries.

The FRCV as the next generation main battle tank is to replace the vintage T-72 Tank Fleet (in service since 1979), which has progressively gone beyond its service life. While the initial fleet of T72 has been replaced by T90, the later production approx. 1770 tanks though upgraded, are not cost-effective to sustain and pose an operational risk due to obsolescence. Even if optimistically inducted in 2030, it will in all probability replace the balance T 72 fleet by around 2045. Thus, the time and operational expediency.

The FRCV was planned to be developed under the Make Project since 2008-09, however, its turbulent journey swayed from a de-novo three-stage turnkey project outside the DPP in 2015, to MAKE 1 under the new DPP 2016 evolved to SP (Strategic Partnership) model in 2017. Accordingly, commencing 2015 multiple RFI’s were floated by Service Headquarters, the last one being in 2024. While the May 2021 RFI was issued and ‘In Principle Approval’ given, the grant of AoN ( Acceptance of Necessity) by MoD is being expedited. The Indian Army is likely to issue a request for proposal (RFP) this year for a project of approximately Rs 57,000 crore to manufacture 1,770 future-ready combat vehicles (FRCVs) in India.

READ MORE: AVNL proposes infantry combat vehicle for Indian Army

DGMF have listed broad technical parameters under the project brief. The FRCVs, with a weight categorization of 55+/-10% with a high power-to-weight ratio of 27:1 HP/Ton, will have a crew of four. It will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), drone integration, survivability suites including active protection systems, state of art fire control system, battlefield management systems, beyond line-of-sight strike capability, advanced communication, state of art optoelectronics, vetronics and enhanced situational awareness. Additionally, features like manned-unmanned teaming capability and seamless integration into network-centric warfare environments will enhance the overall operational effectiveness index of the Indian Army (IA) by catering for emerging threats in varied terrain.

A main battle tank is a system of systems and is a fusion of apex technologies existing in the realm of land systems. Successful development under Make-I would result in acquisition, from a successful Development Agency (DA), through the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category with indigenous design and Development and a minimum of 50% IC. The Ministry of Defence, GoI, intends to procure quantity 590 FRCV in the first phase.

The project for FRCV will provide a unique opportunity for the Indian Defence Industry to come together and help to build research and manufacturing capabilities to foster technological spinoffs benefitting a host of civil/dual-use applications.

The Light Tank

Recognizing the strategic importance of high-altitude operations, the Indian Army is acquiring an indigenous light tank engineered for agile manoeuvrability and high lethality with other state-of-the-art technologies dovetailed. It aims to counterbalance the capabilities demonstrated by the Chinese Type 15 ‘Black Panther’, a third-generation tank currently operational along the LAC in the Northern borders where T72 or T90 may be terrain restricted.

The broad employment concept of the light tank thus revolves around its superior mobility (strategic, operational, and tactical), versatility, enhanced manoeuvrability (small turning radius, high power-to-weight ratio, and low nominal ground pressure), and lethal firepower especially high angle fire cum missile firing ability supported by state of art electro-optronics, communication and multilayered survivability packaging. Its air portability and desired amphibious capability add to its operational matrix. Its availability would add teeth to limited offensive or quid pro quo operations into enemy territory. Thus, light tanks would add to the credible deterrence posture and warfighting capability in the Northern Front.

READ MORE: Future Ready Combat Vehicle and Light Tanks

Like FRCV light tanks too have had a turbulent history since the mid 1980’s of its approval. The Indian Light Tank (ILT) based on RFI of Apr 2021 has been accorded ‘Acceptance of Necessity (AoN)’ in Sep 2022 to be progressed under two routes – one is the design and development route, in which the DRDO, alongside the industry partner, is working on 59 tanks, and there is another 295, which is under the ‘Make I’ category which will be partially funded by the government as well as development partners. Named ‘Zorawar’, the tank has emerged from a collaborative effort between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the private entity Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The development technical trials by the developer are underway and likely to be handed over for user trials end of 2024 or early 2025.

Conclusion

The approach to future capability building must be inclusive and not exclusive, based on the larger intent of prevailing in today’s war and generating indigenous capabilities to fight and win future wars. FRCV and  Light Tank program are key strategic enablers, which will generate desired capabilities and bridge the future operational mismatch against escalating threats, particularly on the Northern borders.

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The revolutionary pistol ASMI is the brainchild of Col Prasad Bansod from the Infantry School, Mhow and supported by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune.

Developed in a record time of just four months, ASMI is an impressive feat of engineering prowess, firing the in-service 9 mm ammunition. ASMI boasts an upper receiver crafted from aircraft-grade aluminium and a lower receiver made from carbon fiber, utilising cutting-edge 3D printing technology for components like the trigger.

ADMI sports an 8-inch barrel and a high-capacity 33-round magazine, weighs under 2 kgs when empty, offering versatility with its full-length integral Picatinny rail and M-Lok slots for accessories.

The potential applications of ASMI within the Armed Forces are vast, catering to various roles including personnel weapon for vehicle detachments, commanders, tank and aircraft crews, drivers, dispatch riders, radio/radar operators, close-quarters combat (CQB), counter-insurgency (CI), counter-terrorism (CT) operations, VIP protection, and policing duties.

The name “ASMI,” symbolising pride, self-respect, and the diligent efforts behind its creation, resonates the significance of indigenous production. With an estimated production cost of under Rs 50,000 per unit, ASMI holds promise not only for domestic security forces but also for potential export markets, reflecting India’s strides towards self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing.

Similarly, the JD Taurus joint venture formed by Brazilian company Taurus Armas SA in collaboration with Jindal Defence, is set to supply 550 T9 submachine guns to the Indian Army for the first time. The deal valued at approximately Rs 4.26 crore, marks a substantial advancement in bilateral relations, particularly within the defence sector.

The contract to supply T9 submachine gun will ensure timely and best of the technology being available to the Indian armed forces and the paramilitary forces. In the joint venture company JD Taurus, Taurus Armas SA holds a 49 percent stake and this partnership underscores the growing cooperation between India and Brazil in defence.

The Indian Army’s acquisition of 550 advanced submachine guns signifies its commitment to modernising its arsenal and enhancing operational capabilities. At the same time, the intense competition from vendors like PLR Systems, Jindal Defence, and Lokesh Machine Limited, this procurement showcases India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.

Jindal Defence’s Taurus T-9 submachine gun has emerged as a formidable contender in India’s defence market. Recently, Jindal Defence Systems Private Limited (JDSPL) inaugurated its state-of-the-art firearms manufacturing facility in Hisar marking a significant stride towards revolutionising India’s domestic weapons production and reducing reliance on imports. The sprawling two-acre facility amalgamates global expertise with cutting-edge technology.

JD Taurus is strategically positioned to address the escalating demand within India with an annual production capacity of 250,000 weapons. In the upcoming fiscal year, the company targets a production output of 25,000 to 30,000 firearms, facilitated by rapid scalability and product diversification.

JD Taurus’ facility boasts certifications for a diverse range of products, with substantial value addition in India for rifles, carbines, submachine guns, machine pistols, and revolvers.

While logistical challenges may arise, including maintenance and spare parts management, the decision to procure submachine guns from multiple suppliers underscores India’s pressing defence needs and the strategy to diversify procurement channels. Moreover, this approach ensures timely delivery of critical firearms to bolster national security efforts.

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The squadron was raised in the presence of Army Aviation’s director general Lt Gen Ajay Suri. The delivery, initially scheduled to begin in February, was delayed, with the first three Apaches now expected in May.

Under a Rs 13,952 crore deal signed with the US in September 2015, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has already inducted 22 Boeing-manufactured Apache helicopters. The Army, under a separate Rs 5,691 crore deal inked in February 2020, will receive six choppers.

Often referred to as “tanks in the air,” the Apache helicopters are equipped with Stinger air-to-air missiles, Hellfire Longbow air-to-ground missiles, guns, and rockets. They are primarily intended to provide integrated combat aviation cover for the ‘strike corps’ of the Army.

In coming years, both the Army and the IAF are set to induct 156 indigenous Prachand light combat helicopters. These helicopters are capable of offensive operations in high-altitude areas such as the Siachen Glacier and eastern Ladakh. Fifteen such choppers (10 IAF and 5 Army) have already been inducted under the first Rs 3,887 crore contract for them.

Recognised as the world’s most advanced combat helicopter, featuring an advanced night vision system and the capability to arm missiles that can strike 138 targets in a minute, the Apache AH-64E is a formidable force in the sky with a maximum speed of 280 km/h.

The Apache AH-64E, equipped with AGM 114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles and Stinger missiles, is prepared to handle both ground and aerial threats. The Hellfire missiles are particularly effective against armoured vehicles like tanks and BMPs, while the Stinger missiles are designed to neutralise airborne threats. Additionally, the helicopter is armed with Hydra-70 unguided missiles, which can effectively target ground-based threats.

Light Utility Helicopters

The Army has placed an order for the HAL Light Utility Helicopter under limited series production. The helicopter will replace the fleet of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters.[62] The Indian Army requires 394 light helicopters, which the Defence Ministry decided to meet in two purchases. To meet immediate requirements, 197 light helicopters would be procured on the international market; Hindustan Aeronautics Limited would develop and manufacture 187 HAL Light Utility Helicopter, of which 126 would be for the Indian Army.

Recognised as the world’s most advanced combat helicopter, featuring an advancednight vision system and the capability to arm missiles that can strike 138 targets in a minute, the Apache AH-64E is a formidable force in the sky with a maximum speed of 280 km/h.

The Corps of Army Aviation holds a large number of ageing aircraft like the Cheetah and Chetak, which need replacement by modern helicopters. The role of the corps continues to remain reconnaissance and observation. The absence of medium and heavy lift helicopters, which continues to remain with the Air Force, results in a deficiency of the tactical lift capability. Lack of fixed wing aircraft, when the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard and paramilitary forces have them affects functions like command and control, staff transport, logistics, casualty evacuation and communication.

The Army Aviation Corps has several squadrons. In addition, there are several Reconnaissance and Observation (R&O) flights that operate independently and are not attached to any squadrons. These are equipped with Dhruv Utility helicopters, Rudra ALH-WSI helicopters, Prachand Light Combat helicopter, Chetak and Cheetah Utility Helicopters.

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The current RfP is for 750 hi-tech precision strike drones, termed Remotely Piloted Aerial Vehicle (RPAV). The previous RFPs were issued to procure 1,000 Surveillance Copters and 80 Mini Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs).

Hi-tech Precision Strike Drones

The MoD intends to procure 750 RPAVs for the Indian Army’s Parachute (Special Forces) Battalions which are mandated to execute special missions behind enemy lines through Fast Track Procedure under Emergency Procurement.

The Army’s special forces are looking for specialised drones that can provide 3D imagery of the terrain to launch operations.

The RFP is part of the tendering process seeking commercial and technical bids from suppliers. Some 750 such drones are needed. “The current volatile situation along the northern borders warrants expeditious procurement of operational equipment,” the RFP document said. The Army is looking for UAVs that can provide round-the-clock surveillance with ability to scan the target area and provide a processed 3D scanned image of the target to execute special missions. The MoD wants to keep out any Chinese parts and has asked the vendor to provide NATO stock number (NSN) for each item provided by a foreign maker.

This force multiplier would enable the Special Forces to execute pinpoint precision strikes during direct action tasks such as raids, elimination of high-value targets, and command and control elements including enemy leadership.

This equipment will be deployed for situational awareness and short-range surveillance that will enable the special forces to execute pin-point precision strikes during direct action tasks. The Army wants the UAV to be about 2 kg in weight and be operable by one person. The UAV needs to have an endurance of 30 minutes and be able to operate indoors and in GPS-denied areas.

Remotely Piloted Aircraft

On 20 October 2022, the Army began the process to procure 80 mini remotely piloted aircraft systems and 1,000 surveillance copters to bolster its overall surveillance apparatus along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Officials said the mini remotely piloted aircraft is an ideal multi-sensor system to carry out day and night surveillance and target detection in high-altitude regions.

The last date for submission of bids for the remotely piloted aircraft programme was November 16. “The system will be able to provide high resolution imagery to enable target detection, recognition, identification and accurate location of adversary’s location as well as build up of troops,” said an official.

The mini remotely piloted aircraft systems are being procured under the ‘buy’ (Indian) category. According to the request for proposal or initial tender, the select supplier will have to supply the platforms within 12 months of signing the contract.

As per the requirement of the Army, the new man-portable mini-RPAS must weigh up to 15 kilograms, have a mission range of at least 15 kilometers, and have an operation endurance of no less than 90 minutes. While the runway-independent RPAS should have the vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability at an altitude of 13,000 feet with a minimum four-hour endurance

The new RPAS will be used for tactical surveillance to locate enemy soldiers and weapon systems in a particular sector. In contrast, strategic surveillance aims to determine the big picture, for example, where the enemy is concentrating his forces, what routes are used for supplies, where are the logistics hubs, etc.

The new RPAS with day-and-night capability are consequently needed by forward observation posts to look deeper and direct, correct, and analyze artillery fire.

Surveillance Copters

The Army’s procurement of 1,000 surveillance copters through fast track procedure under emergency procurement process is also aimed at boosting surveillance along the frontier with China.

“For surveillance needs of the Indian Army, expeditious procurement of surveillance copters for meeting urgent operational requirements is an operational imperative, where undue/unforeseen delay is seen to be adversely impacting the capacity and preparedness of the Indian Army,” according to a brief on the programme.

It said the surveillance copter will provide aerial surveillance capability and sustained point surveillance to the Indian Army.

The last date for submission of bids for the programme is November 17.

A surveillance copter is an ideal multi-sensor system to carry out real-time reconnaissance and surveillance day and night. It will provide high-resolution imagery to enable target detection, recognition and accurate location of adversary’s build-up. The UAVs will be sourced from Indian companies.

The copters will provide aerial surveillance capability and sustained point surveillance to the Army. It will have a multi-sensor system to carry out real-time reconnaissance and surveillance of an area of interest.

The system will provide high-resolution imagery to enable target detection, recognition, identification and accurate location of adversary’s build-up, mortars, guns, movement of troops and vehicles during border management and active operations.

The copters will have an all-up weight of no more than 10 kg and can take off from an altitude of 13,000 ft.

Swarm Drone Systems

To enhance its defensive and offensive capabilities, the Indian Army in August 2022 inducted the swarm drone system. As evident from the recent ongoing conflicts globally, they have proved to be a major force multiplier. Even at the borders in India, drone-related incidents have seen a major surge in the past few months.

The resourcefulness of the swarm drone technology has proved itself during the recent conflicts in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Syria and the strike on oil fields in Saudi Arabia and the recent Russia-Ukraine war.

Loitering munitions, Aerial Targeting System

The Army has started the process to procure 120 loitering munitions and 10 aerial targeting systems to bolster its military might along the frontier with China.

The RfP for the procurement was issued around November 14. The loitering munitions and the aerial targeting systems are being procured under the fast track procedure within the framework of ‘buy Indian’ category, they said.

Under the prescribed specifications, the aerial targeting systems will be required to have a range of 100 km.

Separate Cadre of UAV Operators

The Army is looking to create a separate cadre for operating its Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), according to Lt Gen AK Suri, Director General of Army Aviation. He was speaking at a seminar on Unmanned Aerial Systems, organised by Indian Military Review, on 16 September 2022.

“This cadre will be of operators in terms of piloting and will reduce the load on helicopter pilots,” he said, adding that Indian Army has been using UAVs for the last two decades, he said they have primarily used them in the northern and western borders. A major part of the surveillance is carried out by them.

The proposal is currently with the Army headquarters and once cleared, will be sent to the Defence Ministry for approval. A similar proposal for a separate UAV cadre by the IAF has been long pending with the Defence Ministry for approval.

Speaking at the seminar, Air Marshal Radhakrishnan Radhish, Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at Western Air Command, said the IAF has a road map for induction of more capable medium-altitude long-endurance UAVs as well as high-altitude long-endurance UAVs. IAF is joining an indigenous effort to develop a UCAV and Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) has been sanctioned to develop the niche technologies, he stated. Awareness of the enemy (battlefield transparency) is crucial in high altitude where mobility is a prime factor in gaining advantage and these will help the Units deployed in the Northern Borders. These RPAs will assist the local commanders in gaining information on the enemy position, men and equipment and about the changes on ground, thus enabling them to take timely and appropriate action,” he said.

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The Army is set to order 100 more K9 Vajra Tracked Self-Propelled Howitzer from private defence major Larsen and Toubro (L&T) for their deployment at the northern borders. The threat from a belligerent China on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) has necessitated this order.

The new order for 100 more 155mm/52 calibre Vajras will be a repeat for the South Korean guns that are manufactured indigenously by L&T at its facility in Gujarat. The Request for Proposal (RFP) will be issued to L&T soon after which the cost negotiations will be carried out.

In 2017, L&T won the Rs 4,500-crore contract to supply 100 units of K9 Vajra under the ‘Make in India’ initiative for which it signed a transfer of technology contract with South Korean company Hanwha Corporation. L&T had delivered all the guns ahead of schedule with the last being handed over in February last year.

According to L&T, K9 Vajra guns have more than 80 per cent indigenous work packages and above 50 per cent indigenisation (by value) at the programme level.

The company says it replaced 14 critical systems in the Korean ‘K9 Thunder’ with indigenously developed and produced systems for the trial gun fielded for user evaluation trials.

The Army is looking for 200 more Vajras but could not have placed a repeat order higher than the original. The new order will be for 100 howitzers and a subsequent order could be placed at a later date once the second order is delivered. The Army’s plan is to eventually have 300 of these guns that were initially bought for the deserts.

With tensions and unarmed combat breaking out at the LAC in May 2020, the Army decided to deploy three of these tracked howitzers in Eastern Ladakh as a trial measure. These guns were fitted with winterisation kits that would enable the howitzers to work in sub-zero temperature even though they were designed to operate in deserts.

The gun system proved its mettle following which the Army deployed a full regiment (20 guns make one regiment) of these howitzers in Eastern Ladakh to add to its fire power.

The winterisation kits consist of nine items including specialised oil, lubricants, heating systems and small changes to the gun’s fire and control system, besides others.

Vajra Trials

The Vajra trials in 2017 by the Army were carried out in deserts and not in high-altitude areas where the howtizer’s systems work differently in rarefied atmosphere and extreme cold.

But when the guns were deployed in Ladakh for trials they performed well surpassing the Army’s expectations.

Two units of K9 were sent to Thar Desert, Rajasthan for firing and mobility test, and competed against Russian 2S19. K9 Thunder achieved all parameters set by the Army while the Russian counterpart failed to do so.

The Army has already bought 145 M777 lightweight howitzers from the US to be deployed exclusively in the mountains. These lightweight howitzers are easily transportable by the Chinook helicopters and can be moved from one valley to another with ease.

Procurement History

Samsung Techwin (later Hanwa Techwin) and Larsen & Toubro announced their partnership to produce the K9 Thunder in India at DEFEXPO 2012. As per the agreement, Samsung Techwin transfered key technologies and the vehicle is manufactured under license in India using 50 per cent of the domestic content such as FCS and communication system.

In September 2015, the Indian Ministry of Defense selected Hanwha Techwin and Larsen & Toubro as preferred bidder to supply 100 K9 Vajra-T to the Indian Army. On 6 July 2016, India agreed in purchasing 100 K9 Vajra-T for $750 million. On 29 March 2017, the Government of India approved budget of $646 million for purchasing 100 K9 Vajra-T. A formal contract of $310 million was signed between Hanwha Techwin and Larsen & Toubro in New Delhi on 21 April 2017.

K9 Vajra-T consist 14 major Indian manufactured systems, 50% of component by value, which include Nub ammunition capable FCS and its storage, communication system, and environment control and NBC protection system. Additional systems were installed such as GPS (Gunner’s Primary Sight) for direct firing capability, and South African APU, which was proven for desert operation—Korean APU was under development phase during Indian trial. The vehicle’s overall design was modified to suitable for operation in desert and high temperature condition, including the change of firing rate to 3 rounds in 30 seconds.

In February 2020, it was reported that IIT Madras along with IIT Kanpur, Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) were working on redesigning an existing 155 mm shell using ramjet propulsion that can cover 60 km+ range. It will be compatible with K9 Vajra-T. The shell will use precision guidance kit for trajectory correction. IIT Madras is ensuring that Munitions India can manufacture the shells.

In May 2021, it was reported that India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation is working with Larsen & Toubro on a light tank using the K9 chassis with 105mm or 120mm gun system to counter China’s Type 15 tank. The light tank variant was opted out as the estimated vehicle weight exceeded 30 ton, limiting the places to operate.

Maritime Air Domain

The Indian Navy has fast-tracked the process of purchasing 26 fighter jets for its two aircraft carriers after evaluating the trial report of the two shortlisted contenders — F/A 18 Super Hornet of Boeing and the Rafale of Dassault Aviation.

The Super Hornets are US-made while the Rafale is manufactured by France. The Navy needs 26 jets for the two aircraft carriers — INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.

The Navy has carried out trials of both the aircraft from its shore-based facility, INS Hansa in Goa, which is a replica of an aircraft carrier deck.

The trial team submitted its report to the Naval headquarters recently after carrying out extensive trials at its Goa-based facility. The evaluation process is at an advanced stage.

The two contenders in the tender have given extensive details of their planes to the Navy and all the issues would be taken into consideration before arriving at the plane to be shortlisted for the carrier-based operations.

The jets are required for operations on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier as the MiG-29s are found to be sufficient only for the operational readiness requirements of the first aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya.

INS Vikrant is without an element of fighter aircraft as trials are supposed to be conducted by the end of this year. The Navy earlier required 57 planes for operations on both the carriers, but the requirement was cut short by more than half in support of indigenous planes.

The Navy is looking at getting the 26 aircraft within three years of the order being placed. Out of the 26, the Navy wants eight two-seaters for training purposes. However, the Rafale is a single-seater, while the Super Hornet comes in both configurations.

One advantage that the Super Hornet has over the Rafale is the foldable wings, which reduce its wing span from 44 feet to 30 feet, making it more flexible to be accommodated. The Super Hornet can carry four anti-ship missiles compared to one on the Rafale. The Super Hornet with a maximum take off weight is 29,900 kg, while the Rafale is 24,500 kg.

Sources said once the Navy zeroes in on the choice, it will likely be a government-to-

government deal like the one for getting 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force.

The navy is looking at an aircraft that can operate from both STOBAR (Short take off- but arrested recovery) and CATOBAR (Catapult Take-off but arrested recovery) aircraft carriers. The STOBAR carriers come with a ski-jump ramp while the CATOBARs are flat deck. Indian Navy’s two carriers INS Vikramaditya and newly inducted INS Vikrant are both STOBAR carriers. The third carrier under planning is likely to be a CATOBAR and keeping that in mind, the navy’s requirement is to have a fighter jet that can operate from both, as the current MiG 29s are limited to the two STOBAR carriers of the Indian Navy.

A CATOBAR carrier can have a bigger impact as it increases range, has more weapons and can operate a variety of aircraft.

Super Hornet and Rafale are suited for CATOBAR carriers but the tests that have taken place are from the navy’s shore-based facility in Goa that has a ski-jump and is identical to the two aircraft carriers India has.

The original Navy plan was to buy 57 fighters but there have been delays. Sources said now the navy is speeding up the process for the critical acquisition of at least 26 aircraft. The Navy currently has a fleet of 40 plus MiG 29 K aircraft but will need replacement at some point of time. With 18-20 aircraft operating from each carrier if a third one indeed gets a go-ahead surely more fighters would be needed. In the Indian Navy’s plans is a third carrier, even though it might be a distant dream as of now. The MiG 29 Ks were inducted in 2010 and the first squadron commissioned in 2013 to operate from INS Vikramaditya.

More BrahMos Missiles for Warships

The Ministry of Defence, on 22 September, signed a Rs 1,700-crore deal with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for acquisition of dual-role capable surface-to-surface BrahMos missiles for deployment on warships of the Indian Navy.

“Providing further impetus to atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence production, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) signed a contract with BAPL for acquisition of additional dual-role capable surface-to-surface BrahMos missiles at an overall approximate cost of Rs 1,700 crore under the ‘buy-Indian’ category. Induction of these dual-role capable missiles is going to significantly enhance the operational capability of Indian Navy fleet assets,” said a statement from the MoD.

A combination of the names of Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers, BrahMos missiles are designed, developed and produced by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture company set up by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Mashinostroyenia of Russia. The first test launch of the initial version of Brahmos took place in 2001. Various types of the BrahMos, including those which can be fired from land, warships and the Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, have already been developed and successfully tested and inducted since then.

The MoD further said: “It is notable that BAPL is making crucial contribution to augment the new generation surface-to-surface missiles with enhanced range and dual-role capability for land as well as anti-ship attacks. This contract is going to give further boost to indigenous production of critical weapon system and ammunition with active participation of indigenous industry.”

BrahMos is a two-stage missile with a solid propellant booster engine. Its first stage brings the missile to supersonic speed and then gets separated. The liquid ramjet or the second stage then takes the missile closer to three times the speed of sound in cruise phase. The missile has a very low radar signature, making it stealthy, and can achieve a variety of trajectories. The ‘fire and forget’ type missile can achieve a cruising altitude of 15 km and a terminal altitude as low as 10m to hit the target. The enhanced range version of the missile has a range of 4,000km, as compared to the original range of 290km.

Cruise missiles such as BrahMos, called ‘standoff range weapons’, which are fired from a range far enough to allow the attacker to evade defensive fire from the adversary. These weapons are in the arsenal of most major militaries in the world.

Diving Support Vessels

Two Diving Support Vessels (Nistar & Nipun) being built by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd, Vishakapatnam for the Indian Navy, were launched on 22 Sep 22.

The Diving Support Vessels (DSVs) are first of the kind, ships indigenously designed and built at HSL for the Indian Navy. The vessels are 118.4 metres long, 22.8 metres at the broadest point and will have a displacement of 9,350 tons.

These ships would be deployed for deep sea diving operations. Additionally, with Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) embarked, the DSVs are designed to undertake submarine rescue operations, in case requirement exists. Furthermore, these ships will be capable of sustained patrolling, conducting Search & Rescue operations and carrying out Helicopter Operations at high seas.

With approximately 80 % indigenous content, the DSV project has generated considerable local employment opportunities and has also promoted indigenisation which in turn will aid in boosting India’s economy.

Third Aircraft Carrier – INS Vishal

The Indian Navy’s second aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, will be fully operational by the end of 2022 and it is likely to move forward with the third aircraft carrier, INS Vishal targeting the year 2030. The added capabilities being envisaged for future carriers could boost our capacity building in terms of maritime security as follows:

 Incorporation of technologies such as the Electromagnetic Air Lift System (EMALS), which was disseminated to India by the US defence company, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems Inc. in 2017.

 The Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR) system is used in advanced aircraft carriers for the purpose of ‘catapulting’ aircraft (especially heavy-weight fighters) and ‘assisting’ their landing back on the carrier using arrestor wires.

 A nuclear power plant to cater to all the energy needs on board and for prolonged deployment.

 Space for housing more fighter aircraft and carrier-borne blade folding AEW aircraft.

 Could fly aerial drones and dock autonomous underwater and surface vehicles.

To counter the recent threats from China and to neutralise the hegemony being demanded by China over Indo Pacific region, getting an upper hand at sea is the way forward for India. By just choking the Malacca Straights in the far east, India can counter China effectively during the discourse of an incident. Deployment of carriers at critical points in oceans could become a game-changer during the time of hot pursuits. Henceforth, India needs to have strategic dominance across Indian Ocean Region for maintaining its interests. With the third carrier, we can ensure the availability of two carriers for deployment at any given time.

These aircraft carriers are slightly cheaper alternatives than overseas military bases. To the  Indian Navy, it assures that in some conflictual situations in the Indo-Pacific region, these fighter aircraft carriers will be available on the ground. They can be deployed for combat requirements and provide a long range of surveillance that cannot be provided by a shore-based asset.

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As part of Army’s artillery modernisation project, additions are being made to have longer range of rockets, loitering ammunition, UAVs with greater endurance besides newer indigenous guns. Artillery consists of guns, rockets, missiles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. It launches munitions far beyond the range and power of infantry firearms.

The Field Artillery Rationalization Plan, drawn up in 1999, talks about acquiring 2,800 guns by 2027.  Meeting these numbers could take up to a decade or more from now.

All Gun systems procured in the last five years or being procured, apart from Ultra-Light Howitzer, are indigenous Gun Systems being manufactured in India.

The plan talks about having all guns at same level — 155 mm. These includes 1,580 towed guns, 814 truck-mounted guns, 100 tracked self-propelled guns,180 wheeled self-propelled guns and 145 ultra-light howitzers.

Last year on emergency procurement basis, the Ministry of Defence okayed purchase of loitering ammunition for Army. These are set to be delivered now. Loitering ammunition can remain in the air for a specified period, do surveillance of targets and strike when directed from ground.

Among the multiple type of guns being inducted, include the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), the Sharang, ULH, Vajra and Dhanush.

The firing trials of ATAGS have gone off well. The field evaluation trials have been completed. Tata and Bharat Forge, the two manufacturers of the DRDO designed gun are ready to start production – some 170 are expected to be made in the first batch. The Director General Quality Assurance (DGQA) is testing its efficacy against dust, rains, mould etc. In another two months things should move ahead.

The Ultra Light Howtizers – in all 145 imported from US—are being inducted steadily. Seven regiments – 18 guns in each – of ULH have been inducted and deployed.

Sharang – the 130 MM gun that is being up-gunned to 155 MM – has three operational regiments, one more is on the way. In all 300 guns are to be up-gunned. The current speed of up-gunning is two regiments per year. We need to speed up to do three regiments per year.

The success of the K9 Vajra gun – that runs of tank-style tracks – in eastern Ladakh has led to the MoD okaying the purchase of 100 more such guns. Originally the gun was made for the desert sector; its adaption for Himalayan winter includes batteries that work in cold and lubricants that don’t freeze.

The first regiment of Dhanush has been deployed, the second one is expected by March 2023.

The future of long artillery includes long-range rockets. A 75 km range guided rockets that can fire from Pinaka launcher are to be inducted. The multi-barrel ‘Smerch’ can fire for 90 km range. The DRDO has been asked to work at rocket that can fire 125 km.

One of the four Pinaka regiments have been inducted along Northern borders. Six more Pinaka regiments have been contracted and delivery was expected soon and would be equipped with electronic and mechanical weapon system capable of firing variety of ammunition over longer ranges.

With long range rockets being inducted, aerial surveillance is need to find targets. The Army is looking for vertically launched drones with 80 km range. The system will direct fire in enemy areas including beyond visual range.

Make in India Initiative

The modernisation of the Artillery of the Indian Army has gathered momentum with several important projects in the pipeline. And guns made in India are now being operationalised in the high altitude areas along the northern borders and along Line of Control.

The focus of this whole process has been on indigenisation under the Make in India initiative, this means now all the gun systems being used by the Indian Army in the last five years have been designed and developed in the country except the Ultra-Light Howitzer.

Dhanush

In 2019, the Indian Army had signed a deal to procure 114 Dhanush 155 mm/45-calibre towed howitzers. By March 2023 the Army is expected to induct the second regiment of this gun.

These guns which have a strike range of 38 km have already been inducted in the Indian Army which has got 18 of them so far. These guns which were manufactured at the erstwhile Jabalpur-based Gun Carriage Factory (GCF), at a cost of Rs 14.50 crore, and each shell at Rs 1 lakh, are already active along the borders of China and Pakistan.

With this gun Indian Army’s fire power has been augmented and paved the way for development of private gun manufacturing industry in India. The factory already has Bulk Production Clearance (BPC) for the production of 114 Dhanush, country’s first indigenous 155mm x 45 calibre artillery gun.

Before induction the gun had undergone trials and tests under extreme conditions in different phases in terrains like Leh, Sikkim, Balasore, Odisha, and Babina in Jhansi.

So far the indigenous material in this gun is around 90 percent and the private as well as public sector has been part of this project and these include: SAIL, BEL and OFB. The Indian Army, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and DGQA are all part of this project.

This gun has been mechanically and electronically upgraded on the basis of the first phase of Transfer of Technology (ToT) deal under the Bofors contract of the 1980s.

K-9 Vajra

Amidst the ongoing border standoff between the troops of Indian and Chinese armies since May 2020 in eastern Ladakh, the K9-Vajra self-propelled howitzer which weighs around 50 tonnes has been deployed by the Indian Army. These guns which are capable of firing 47-kg of bomb at the higher altitude have been deployed to help the Army to strengthen its position against the enemy.

So far 100 K9 Vajra gun systems have been inducted and recently, DAC headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh has already given its approval for procurement of additional 100 K9 Vajra. And the process is set rolling and the Request for Proposal is going to be sent out soon.

Since these guns are already inducted in the army, there will be no further trials, now the vendor just has to submit the commercial bid and based on that the cost negotiations will take place.

These 155mm/52 calibre guns which have a striking capability of 50 km have been made at the Armoured Systems Complex of Larsen and Toubro (L&T) located in Gujarat. It is under the ‘Make in India’ initiative at a cost of Rs 4,500 crore.

In 2017, L&T had won the Rs 4,500-crore contract to supply 100 units of K9 Vajra under the ‘Make in India’ initiative for which it signed a transfer of technology contract with South Korean company Hanwha Corporation. According to L&T, K9 Vajra are delivered with more than 80 per cent indigenous work packages and above 50 per cent indigenisation (by value) at the programme level.

Sharang

This 130 mm gun system with a life and technology enhancement has a better accuracy, range, and consistency corroborating Indigenous Defence Capability.

The Army is getting prepared to get the 4th Regiment. The total volume required is 300 and this is expected to be completed in a year’s time. The source added that 15 Regiments are to be equipped with the Sharangs.

Pinaka Weapon System

The indigenous more advanced Pinaka weapon systems are in offing. A contract for six more regiments have been signed by the Army and soon the delivery will start. And these six regiments are going to be equipped with mechanically and electronically improved weapon systems which are capable of firing different ammunition over longer ranges.

The Army depends on Grad Multi Barrel Rocket launchers. Presently it has five regiments and Smerch which has been procured from Russia. But, the indigenous Pinaka has been a great success, not only in terms of launchers but also in bouquet of ammunition.

There will be trials for extended range of the Pinaka and the plan is to increase its range. With the help of the DRDO the Army is exploring the possibility of extending the range to 100-125 kms.

In response to Chinese positioning of its artillery, the Indian Army has deployed one regiment of the Pinaka Rocket System along the Line of Actual Control in the northern borders.

ATAGS

These are in the advanced stages of trials. And have been designed and developed through a partnership between DRDO and the domestic industry. This system has many firsts to its credit, said the source. It has a 25 litre chamber, long range, and sustained and rapid rates of fire. The user trials so far have been satisfactory and few procedural issues are in the midst of being taken care of.

Ultra-Light Howitzers M777

These have already been validated in the Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh regions. So far there are no plans to procure more of these Ultra-Light Howitzers. So far India bought 145 ULH at US $ 750 million from the US to address specific operational requirements in specific sectors especially in the high altitude areas of northern borders and other tough terrains. These 155 mm/39-caliber M777 howitzers have a range of up to 30km. And they are capable of carrying out  strikes at ranges of over 40 km in some areas.

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The comprehensive road map for its modernisation seeks to transform the mechanised infantry into a more lethal, agile and integrated force capable of delivering a swift and effective response in battle.

The army will seek the defence acquisition council’s acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the FICVs at the earliest. It is simultaneously pursuing modernisation plans for tracked and wheeled vehicles.

BMP-IIs are the Backbone

Forming the core of the overarching capability enhancement plan – dovetailed with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) strategy – is the replacement of the BMP-IIs with 480 locally developed futuristic infantry combat vehicles (FICVs) for which government approval will be sought shortly.

The Army has initiated trials involving three private Indian companies for the upgrade of the over 2,500 Russian Infantry combat vehicles – BMP II – that have been in service since the late 1980s, to give them night fighting capabilities as well as anti-drone measures besides a high-power engine.

The army has already secured approvals for the Nag missile system (NAMIS) for reconnaissance and support battalions (13 Nag missile carriers and 293 missiles), 177 infantry combat vehicles (command), and 105 wheeled armoured fighting vehicles to replace Soviet-origin BRDM reconnaissance vehicles and 1080 anti-tank guided missiles.

Also on the mechanised infantry’s wish list are wheeled infantry combat vehicles for standard battalions and light armoured multi-purpose vehicles with enhanced mobility and protection for reconnaissance platoons that currently use the Maruti Gypsy.

The modernisation drive will enhance the mechanised infantry’s mobility and effectiveness, and also boost India’s capabilities along the northern borders with China.

A threat cum capability-based modernisation approach is being pursued with the acquisition of contemporary, adaptable and niche technology, which is interoperable with other combat arms.

Capability enhancement of existing military hardware with upgrades for night fighting, lethality and ISR systems forms an important element of the modernisation effort.

Night Fighting Capability

Enhanced night fighting capability is a top priority. The focus is on a comprehensive solution for the gunner main sight, commander panoramic sight, fire control system, automatic target tracker and laser range finder. The new gear will enhance the night vision capability of the driver and commander too.

The BMP, being manufactured by the state-owned Ordnance Factory Medak under license from Russia, lacks night-vision capability, literally leaving it blind when the sun sets, or when there is smoke, dust or fog. Hence, the Army was keen on an upgrade even as it pursues a different programme for Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) that will replace these BMPs.

The programme is being pursued through the government’s iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence) initiative in which three firms have qualified.

The three firms, sources said, in contention are Tonbo Imaging, Big Bang Boom and Dimensions NXG.

The see-through armour is going to be a big technological leap that will increase situational awareness. “See through armour” that provides the commander, his driver and the gunman a 360-degree view even at night. The technology enhances the vehicle’s all-round survivability and provides an extra edge in combat.

The solution for BMPs’ weakness comes through cameras and magnetic trackers. The BMPs will be fitted with over half a dozen cameras which will be integrated with a helmet display. This will mean that when the commander turns right, the headgear displays images of the surroundings onto the insides of the tank as if he was seeing through the armour. A magnetic tracker senses the head movement of the wearer and displays video from the same direction.

Adding to the capability is that the driver’s head-mounted display can also interface with the GPS system for precise manoeuvring and situational assessment. This meant the commander was able to see a wider coverage of possible targets and threats.

Enhancing Firepower

Enhancing fire power of mechanised infantry units is covered under the plan, and is a work in progress.

This is being done through third generation fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missiles, canister-launched loiter munition systems integrated on the BMP-II chassis, anti-drone capability, and integrated surveillance and targeting systems.

ISR capability is being strengthened with mini-unmanned aerial vehicles, see through armour for better situational awareness, autonomous combat vehicles and artificial intelligence-based integrated surveillance, detection and engagement systems.

India’s mechanised forces – the mechanised infantry and armoured corps – are also inducting swarm drone systems capable of carrying out offensive missions in enemy territory with scores of drones working in formations to identify, encircle and strike targets.

Other upgrades planned on BMPs

Given the changing warfare scenario, there is a requirement to equip the army’s Mechanised Infantry with state-of-art missiles and lethal capability beyond visual range (BVR). This includes the Fire and Forget Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs).

Multiple indigenous options are being explored to equip the Mechanised Infantry with contemporary third-generation Fire and Forget ATGM, including ones being developed in India.

Another acquisition planned is that of the Canister Launched Loiter Munition System integrated on BMP 2/ Carrier Mortar Tracked (CMT) chassis.

To enable anti-drone capability on existing equipment, changes in aerial sight for effectively exploiting the ability of stabilised and automatic 30 mm Cannon and co-axially mounted 7.62 mm Machine Gun (PKT) to engage aerial targets is being pursued.

FICV in Phase 2

For the Mechanised infantry, sources said, the Army is following a twin approach – replacement of vintage equipment with futuristic platforms and capability enhancement of existing equipment through upgrades for enhancing night enablement, lethality, intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability.

The acquisitions planned in the tracked category includes the FICV that will replace BMP 2.

The Army is also procuring the New Wheeled Infantry Combat Vehicle (Wh ICV) for standard mechanised infantry battalions (Wheeled) and is also seeking a Light Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (LAMV) with enhanced mobility and protection for Recce Platoon to replace the existing modified Maruti Gypsy.

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The comprehensive road map for its modernisation seeks to transform the mechanised infantry into a more lethal, agile and integrated force capable of delivering a swift and effective response in battle, said one of the officials cited above, asking not to be named.

The army’s mechanised infantry units, equipped with the hardy Soviet-era BMP-II amphibious combat vehicles, have played a crucial role in strengthening the Indian Army’s combat posture against the Chinese People’s Liberation Army during the ongoing, tense standoff along the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh.

The versatile combat arm brings to battle a protected infantry component directly supported by the firepower of its integral combat vehicles.

Forming the core of the overarching capability enhancement plan — dovetailed with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) strategy — is the replacement of the BMP-IIs with 480 locally developed futuristic infantry combat vehicles (FICVs) for which government approval will be sought shortly, said a second official, who also asked not to be identified.

“The army will seek the defence acquisition council’s acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the FICVs at the earliest. We are simultaneously pursuing modernisation plans for tracked and wheeled vehicles. A few approvals have already come,” the second official added.

The defence acquisition council (DAC), chaired by the defence minister, is India’s apex weapons procurement body, and under the country’s defence procurement rules, its AoN is the first step towards buying or developing military hardware.

The army has already secured approvals for the Nag missile system (NAMIS) for reconnaissance and support battalions (13 Nag missile carriers and 293 missiles), 177 infantry combat vehicles (command), and 105 wheeled armoured fighting vehicles to replace Soviet-origin BRDM reconnaissance vehicles and 1080 anti-tank guided missiles, said a third official on the condition of anonymity.

Also on the mechanised infantry’s wish list are wheeled infantry combat vehicles for standard battalions and light armoured multi-purpose vehicles with enhanced mobility and protection for reconnaissance platoons that currently use the Maruti Gypsy.

The modernisation drive will enhance the mechanised infantry’s mobility and effectiveness, and also boost India’s capabilities along the northern borders with China, said former Western Army commander Lieutenant General RP Singh (retd).

“Injecting contemporary technologies at a swift pace will help exploit the capabilities of this man-machine combination… otherwise the arm is just a battle taxi. Even Pakistan is upgrading its mechanised forces. We can’t be left behind,” Singh added.

“A threat cum capability-based modernisation approach is being pursued with the acquisition of contemporary, adaptable and niche technology, which is interoperable with other combat arms. The modernisation drive is completely in sync with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative,” the third official said.

Capability enhancement of existing military hardware with upgrades for night fighting, lethality and ISR systems forms an important element of the modernisation effort.

“Enhanced night fighting capability is a top priority. The focus is on a comprehensive solution for the gunner main sight, commander panoramic sight, fire control system, automatic target tracker and laser range finder. The new gear will enhance the night vision capability of the driver and commander too,” said a fourth official.

Enhancing fire power of mechanised infantry units is covered under the plan, and is a work in progress.

This is being done through third generation fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missiles, canister-launched loiter munition systems integrated on the BMP-II chassis, anti-drone capability, and integrated surveillance and targeting systems, the officials said.

“ISR capability is being strengthened with mini-unmanned aerial vehicles, see through armour for better situational awareness, autonomous combat vehicles and artificial intelligence-based integrated surveillance, detection and engagement systems,” said the first official.

India’s mechanised forces — the mechanised infantry and armoured corps — are also inducting swarm drone systems capable of carrying out offensive missions in enemy territory with scores of drones working in formations to identify, encircle and strike targets.

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The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the purchase of around 400,000 close-quarter carbines “to combat the current complex paradigm” of conventional warfare, hybrid warfare and counter-terrorism at the borders, the ministry statement said. An Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) is the first step in any defence procurement process.

The close-quarter carbines will be for front-line soldiers deployed along India’s borders, including the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, where the two countries have been locked in a tense standoff since May 2020.

The central government is planning to indigenously manufacture carbine for the army, navy and air force and has currently put its deal with UAE on the side. It is yet another effort by the government to promote the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and pushing India to gain its foothold in defence manufacturing.

Earlier the Indian army was planning to buy Carbine from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Keeping it aside for the moment, about 4.2 lakh carbines are to be made in India for the army, navy and air force collectively.

The defence minister was tight-lipped on whether the procurement will be through the ‘Buy Indian’ category or through the Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM) route. Initial estimates suggest that the allocation for the project is going to be over Rs 5,000 crore. It is likely that the production of over 4 lakh carbines and their contract will be allotted to two manufacturers from the private or public sector. 

Procuring through the Buy Indian category will mean that several foreign companies who either have or will have joint ventures with Indian firms will be participating.

Under Indigenous Design, Development & Manufacture (IDDM), the competition would have been between only three firms, out of which only one would have been a private firm.

The likely calibre requirement will be the 5.56×45 NATO, and not the 5.56×45 INSAS. While the former is the one used globally, the latter is a slightly different calibre used by India for its INSAS series of rifles, which will be replaced by the AK 203. It is learnt that the carbines may be limited to is likely to be a maximum 3.2 kg.

The main companies in contention will be Bengaluru-based private defence firm SSS Defence, PLR of the Adani Group, the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), Kalyani Group — which has a tie-up with French firm Thales but is also in talks with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) —  the Jindal Group, which has tied up with a Brazilian firm called Taurus, and Neco Desert Tech, a joint venture between Indian and American firms.

However, if the deal is opened up to non-locally manufactured carbines, then more companies will participate on the condition that they will set up a manufacturing base in India if they bag the contract.

SSS Defence could offer its indigenously built M72 Carbine while PLR is likely to present its Galil Ace. PLR has tied up with Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) and is already manufacturing various small arms in India. The Kalyani Group is likely to tie up with DRDO for the project, while OFB will be offering its own product.

If the competition opens up, the UAE’s state-owned firm Caracal, which had emerged as the lowest bidder for a now-junked fast-track procurement (FTP), will also throw in its hat. While the firm was initially in talks with Reliance Defence for a tie-up, the deal did not go through.

Background

The Army has been trying to acquire the CQB carbines since 2008 to replace its outdated and ageing 9mm British Sterling 1A1 submachine guns that are in service. Both DRDO and OFB had failed to meet the Army’s requirements back then, and a global tender for procurement of 44,618 CQB Carbines was issued in 2011.

While four companies — Israel’s IWI, Italian Beretta, and American firms Colt and Sig Sauer — participated, only IWI qualified as the other contenders could not meet the qualitative requirements pertaining to the night vision mounting system.

But the defence ministry did not go ahead with IWI because it had become a single vendor case, which, according to the government’s procurement manual, is not allowed.

In 2017, a global RFI — a process initiated to gather information on what is available in the market — was issued for the purchase of 2 lakh carbines, while a separate process was rolled out to procure 93,895 under FTP.

Caracal had emerged as the lowest bidder but the contract for its CAR 816 had run into rough weather over a number of issues including costs and complaints from other bidders.

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In an incident of major fire in the storage shed, containing over 130 tones of anti-tank mines and ammunition at central ammunition depot, Pulgaon on 31 May 2016, not only 19 defence personnel, including two senior army officers were killed and 17 military personnel injured, it also resulted in a huge loss of property to the Government. This exposed the chinks in the security aspects of the army ammunition depots. In past since last 25 years there were approx 20 such serious fire incidents at various ammunition depots in India.

“Increased security threats and recent incidents of fire in ammunition depots warrant an immediate upgradation of the existing archaic security and fire fighting infrastructure currently found in all the ammunition installations of Ordnance,” states an expression of interest (EOI) issued in April 2022 by the Directorate General of Ordnance Services seeking project management consultancy from suitable agencies.

“There is a need to acquire force multipliers in terms of modern security and fire fighting systems, which would incorporate modern methods of ensuring security and fire fighting and will be potent to ward off any threat,” the EOI adds.

The Army has 16 major ammunition depots, with the Central Ammunition Depot (CAD) at Pulgaon in Maharashtra that comes directly under the command of Army Headquarters, being the mother depot. CAD receives all ammunition from indigenous and foreign sources and then issues it to 15 Field Ammunition Depots (FADs) which sustain fighting formations within the geographical area of supply allotted to them.

These depots hold all kind of bullets, grenades, bombs, shells, mines, rockets and missiles used by the army. Some of the Air Force’s ammunition storage facilities are also co-located with these depots.

Given the explosive nature of stores that they hold, ammunition depots are located and designed as per specific technical norms to ensure security and safety of the establishment, manpower deployed therein as well as the surrounding areas. The locations depend upon the operational and logistic considerations.

The security and fire fighting infrastructure include securing the perimeter and controlling access into the depot by means of armed guards, walls or fences, watch towers and CCTV cameras, technical officers, explosives inspection and disposal experts, keeping the premises clear of vegetation and wild growth, automatic fire detection and sprinkler systems, specialist fire fighting vehicles and equipment, safety lanes and static water tanks.

Every depot has an emergency plan and standard operating procedures in place to deal with any accident, explosion or fire. Technical officers and explosives experts are also required to inspect and audit the stores as well as handling storage procedures periodically to identify life expired or defective ammunition that can trigger an accident.

Over the past two decades, there have been several instances of fire breaking out in some ammunition depots, not only destroying a large quantity of ammunition and explosives, but also resulting in the loss of human lives.

After a massive fire at the Ammunition Depot, Bharatpur in 2000, the Army had embarked upon a major security and safety modernisation project plan to improve the storage infrastructure at all its depots. This included new design for ammunition sheds, converting temporary shelters into permanent buildings, better packing and stacking facilities and a review of the safety standards and procedures.

The new modernisation project being planned will require a fresh look at the regulations of the Ministry of Defence’s Storage and Transport of Explosive Committee, which are ratified by Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES), redesigning buildings and storage structures, state-of-the art inspection and testing facilities, automation, installation of contemporary warning and fire fighting systems.

Army Ordnance Services Role

The serviceable ammunition logistic and operations costs comprise up to 70-80% of a systems life-cycle cost. Managing ammunition stockpile involves proper storage as per holding capacity, turnover, inspection and timely disposal and if not adhered to will increase the risk of accidental explosion, fires etc. The ammunition deterioration during storage has considerable economic as well as catastrophic consequences. The ageing ammunition assets can turn in to liability in case not properly cared.

Ordnance Corp is responsible for provision, receipt, storage, issue and disposal of all Ordnance stores including ammunition and explosives, both in peace and field areas throughout the country. The Central Ammunition Depot (CAD) functions directly under Army HQ and acts as a mother depot and holds strategic reserves. The ammunition is received ex-Import/ factories in this depot and thereafter dispatched to other stocking echelons based on the releases made by Army HQ.

Operational commitments necessitates, that certain scale known as First Line ammunition (on weapon and unit reserve) is kept with the troops deployed on active operational duty. Most of this ammunition is loosely packaged and frequently moved. The Forward Ammunition Depots (FAD)/Ammunition Company/Division Ordnance Units near the borders hold ammunition which is required for training and in case of engagement with enemy. The other scales known as Second Line and General Staff reserve stock ammunition are held in various depots in varying quantity depending upon their location.

The Second Line Ammunition and various reserves which are required in case of prolonged engagements with enemy and training ammunition are kept at Central Ammunition Depots away from the border.

Ammunition has certain unique characteristics that necessitate quality and reliability evaluation during design, production and storage life. All ammunition has an assigned shelf life which depends on its design and chemistry of propellants/explosives used. These are high energy materials thus inherently unstable and prone to deterioration / decomposition even under normal storage conditions. The designed shelf life is given as per the life of the subsystem which has the lowest shelf life under normal conditions of storage.

Some basic issues specific to ammunition are:

Ammunition contains high-energy material and is designed to be as lethal as possible during its use and as safe as any other equipment during its use and handling.

It is designed for optimum performance and manufactured under controlled conditions.

The system mostly comprises of a combination of electronic, mechanical, chemical or structural sub systems, which cannot be fully tested in the integrated forms without partial or full destruction.

The functioning of ammunition consists of irreversible reactions or a process. There is need for testing even the sub-systems independently before integration.

The ammunition deterioration during storage has considerable economic as well as catastrophic consequences. The ageing ammunition assets can turn in to liability in case not properly cared. Hence, the exceptions during each stage must be predicted, detected, identified, and mitigated to prevent unacceptable risk involving safety and performance.

The ammunition ideally should be utilized within the specified shelf life. Beyond this, deterioration in explosives is bound to take place, not only due to inherent property of the explosive but also due to storage conditions. The performance of the explosives in the ammunition cannot be predicted beyond the shelf life. The turnover policy has been formulated for this purpose. The periodic tests/proof during shelf life and thereafter are necessary to assess continued serviceability /safety. The responsibility for proper storage, maintenance and serviceability periodic checks during its shelf life cycle rests with the DGOS. Ammunition Maintenance Instructions and Proof Test Guide have been issued for this purpose.

The serviceability, safety and expected life of ammunitions is assessed through chemical, physical, stability, life assessment and safety test of the explosive components of ammunitions during various phases of evaluation. Depot proof is carried out to assess the balance shelf life of the subject ammunition and to assess whether the store is still in a serviceable state. Shelf life is extended beyond the assigned shelf life if the performance in proof is satisfactory and chemicals are still in stable condition.

A lot of ammunition is stored underground or in box-like structures called igloos in NATO countries. In India the ammunition is stored mainly in three ways i.e., in magazine, in covered warehouses and in open plinths covered only by tarpaulin sheets. The CAG had pointed out in its report in 2002 that about 60 per cent of Indian army ammunition lacked proper storage and were kept in the open.

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