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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The growing need for national security and surveillance during both day and night, adverse weather and limited visibility conditions has led to an increased demand of Night Vision Devices (NVDs). NVD is an optoelectronic device that allows the production of images in lighting conditions that are approaching total darkness. An image is the conversion of both visible light and near-infrared light to visible light. NVDs, are used to intensify human sight under very low light conditions and are apparently simple system constructed from three main blocks: optical objective, picture intensifier tube and ocular eyepiece.

There are several types of NVDs. Infrared imaging systems focus infrared light on a scene. Infrared is beyond the light spectrum visible to humans, so the beam itself is undetectable. Image-converting technology transforms the scene illuminated by the infrared into a visible image. Thermal imaging systems work in a similar way, converting the pattern of heat emitted by the objects into a visual image. The NVDs perfected for wartime use amplify images picked up in minimal light, such as starlight, into visible images. The view through a passive NVD may be from 20,000 to 50,000 times brighter than what the unaided eye could see.

NVD are frequently used by the armed forces and land law enforcement agencies, however, they are available for civilian usage as well. Most NVDs consist of optical components such as telescopic lenses or mirrors. Night vision devices contain an IR illuminator, which makes them an active NVD. There are different types of NVDs which are used by the armed forces. They could be classified by either the type or platform usage specific.

Classification by Type

Thermal imager (TI). Thermal imagers are a kind of thermographic camera that is usually used for firefighting. They are typically handheld but may be helmet-mounted as well. The construction of such cameras involves heat and water-resistant housing and contains five major components, i.e., optic systems, detector, amplifier, signal processing and display. This technology is further categorized into cooled and uncooled thermal imaging cameras.

Thermal imagers weapon night sight. This is completely passive infrared weapon sighting system that allows users to identify and detect heat signatures of individuals or objects in day, night, rainy or smoky conditions. An external flash infrared light source is not required. It is further categorized as monocular and binocular.

Laser based night sights. Laser range finder is a device which uses a laser beam to determine the distance to an object up a distance of about 20 kms. Laser designator is a laser light source used to select objects or installations to be attacked or destroyed in warfare.

Classification By usage

Land (Tank surveillance). Thermal Imaging Stand-Alone System is an advanced thermal imaging and fire control upgrade system which serves as a modular compact and stand-alone upgrade for many T-family tanks and features an advanced, high-performance thermal imaging system, with a digital ballistic computer, gunner and commander display. Thermal Imaging Fire Control System is a state-of-the-art, robust, compact, modular and a user-friendly gunner sight. It is a long-range system which is optimal for both day and night, stationary and on the move operations, designed for rapid and high-accuracy target engagement in all kinds of combat scenarios. It has an Eye-Safe Long-Range Laser Rangefinder and has integrated electronic control unit.

Sea (Marine platform surveillance). Night vision devices are used in naval ships and boats for surveillance and to assist in other activities. It helps navigate in all circumstances, detect other vessels, assist in overboard searches, to secure vessel in the harbour and at open water (anti-piracy) and give the user a good overview of what is happening in the dark. A thermal imaging camera is very effective in maritime environments.

Air (Aircraft and UAVs surveillance). Night vision devices are used by pilots, aircraft and UAVs. Few of them are:

•  EOIR Payload for MI-17 Helicopter – It is a day and night surveillance system which includes a daylight colour camera, a third generation 3-5 µm thermal imager, along with eye-safe laser rangefinder (ELRF), automatic video tracker, grip and display, video data recorder as well as command and control capabilities. It has a wide range of interfaces, enabling integration with various systems, such as computer and GPS.

• NVS 6-3XT Aviator Night Vision Imaging System – It enables the pilot to operate their aircrafts in the darkest environment, giving them clear visibility and facilitate them to navigate during take-off, landing and performing other operations. The adjustable eyepieces allow improvised eye relief up to 25 mm, which enable comfortable viewing, regardless of the eyepiece positioning.

• Night vision UAV-Thermal imager for the UAV ranges from upto 7.5km to about 40 Kms

• Individual surveillance (Passive night vision Binoculars/goggles).

Market Insights

The number of military equipment and vehicles with vision systems has increased significantly over the past few years. These multi-sensor electro-optical systems include thermal cameras and high-resolution color cameras. Many countries are focussing on retrofitting the existing equipment and vehicles with advanced EO/IR systems due to their limited defence budget for procurement of new platforms. Usage of unmanned systems such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is also contributing to the increasing share of NVDs in the defence market. Moreover, improved efficiency and accuracy of NVDs is increasing their use across various platforms.

The global military electro-optical and infrared systems market is projected to register a CAGR of 2.51%, reaching US$9,314.13 million by 2026. By platform, the air-based segment held the largest market share (54.26%) in 2020. The sea-based segment is expected to show the highest CAGR (2.67%) during the forecast period.

With rapid developments in the segment, the competition in this market is high. New entrants are also venturing into this segment owing to its profitability with latest technologies. Transfer of technology between players is enabling mutual growth.

With the focus on national security, most countries have provisions of several man portable, manned and unmanned platforms in their defence budgets. Many of these require NVDs / EO/IR sensors for patrolling, surveillance, reconnaissance, and search and rescue operations. Therefore, growing military budgets of countries across the globe, R&D in advanced infrared imaging technologies, to develop sensors that can provide high-resolution images (to locate and identify targets at much longer ranges than is possible with existing optical systems), need for better sensors to enhance situational awareness of the military personnel on the battlespace are some of the major driving factors of this market.

Simultaneously, various design challenges, technological constraints, supply chain risks, the evolving global crisis, and unprecedented factors, like the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, could affect the market negatively in the near future.

Integration of new technologies on existing systems is one of the main design and technical constraints. It also affects the interoperability of a wide range of technologies. For instance, the integration of EO/IR systems onboard an UAVs has given rise to some of the most advanced design challenges for developers. It also adds to the overall weight of the UAVs.

In order to have a competitive price for their products, the revenue stream of players in this segment is significantly affected due to low profit margins.

Many times, production cycles are also delayed due to prolonged shortage of critical components from major suppliers. Certain components such as sensors should also adhere to specific quality standards contributing to high prices and supply interruption risks.

The EO/IR market could be split into land-based, air-based and naval-based systems. The global market (in US$ m) for each of these is tabulated below:

Year       Land      Air          Naval

2020      1,519   4,348     2,145

2026      1,736     5,059     2,517

The Indian EO/IR market was US$600.98 m in 2020 and is projected to reach US$737.77 m by 2026. The Indian EO/IR market (in US$ m) across the three domains is tabulated below:

Year       Land      Air          Naval

2020      109        331        161

2026      132        406        199

NVDs in India

The Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR) 2018 of India highlights, among others, special optical payloads for the army, long range electro-­optical sensors for the navy, and helmet mounted night vision devices for the air force. India’s Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun has a thermal imager that provides night vision facility to soldiers to observe and engage targets in total darkness and in the presence of smoke, dust, haze and light camouflage. Targets can be ranged accurately using the laser range finder of the main sight.

India’s Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is involved in the development of NVDs. Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE), one of the laboratories under the Electronics and Communication Systems (ECS) cluster of DRDO, designs, develops and conducts research in optical and electro-optical instruments for the defence services. Its key products are Gap Measuring Device Mk III, electro-optical fire control system for armoured vehicles and naval ships, holographic sight, Helmet Mounted Thermal Imaging Camera (HMTIC), Multi-Purpose Reflex Weapon Sight (MRWS) Light Weight Portable Laser Target Designator for Indian Air Force and Commander’s TI for T-90 Tank. DRDO has also developed a portable dual-role EOCM laser system weighing 30kg which has an operational range of 2.5 km /suitable. It has a day/night sighting telescope target acquisition and can be used for both anti-sensor and dazzling applications.

Army Design Bureau (ADB) set up by the Indian Army to promote the production of home-grown weapons, especially using niche technologies has developed a helmet mounted AI-powered personalized night vision unit that warns soldiers of any unusual activity across regions with a restricted line of sight.  Along with the helmet, the companion wristband also vibrates when the unit picks up signs of any movement in the soldier’s proximity.

Ordnance Factory Dehradun (OFDUN), part of Indian Optel Limited (IOL), one of the seven newly formed defence company carved out of the erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) produces a wide range of electro-optics instruments and laser-based sighting systems for meeting the requirements of military, para-military and special armed forces. Its key products include Passive Night Sights for 12.7 mm AD gun, Passive Night Vision Goggles 102A, Driver’s Passive Night Periscope for T-55 Tank, Bino Night Vision Passive Cased 101A, Passive Night Sight for AK-47, Infantry passive night sights for the 5.56 mm INSAS rifle, and for the 84 mm.

BEL has been exporting products including electro optic systems and electro optic fire control systems amongst others to the USA, UK, Russia, Italy, Brazil, Germany, France, Israel, Indonesia, Honduras, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa and many other friendly countries. Segments like electro optic systems and electronic warfare and avionics systems, radars and weapon systems, communication and network centric systems, tank electronics, gun upgrades, shall act as growth drivers for BEL in the coming years.

The private industry in India is also involved in the design and development of NVDs. For instance, a well-established firm in Kanpur manufactures a highly advanced night vision and thermal that are compatible with a host of commercially available combat equipment. They can be mounted easily using existing mounting and attachment subsystems. Another firm based out of Bangalore manufactures II based Passive Night Vision Binoculars, II based passive night vision goggles, handheld TI sight (Uncooled Handheld Thermal Imaging Binocular). A private company headquartered at Hyderabad manufactures Night vision monocular, night vision binoculars, bi-ocular night vision devices, aviation night vision goggles, etc.

In July 2018, Rafael commissioned a US$9.88 million facility in Hyderabad for developing a wide range of advanced capabilities, like command control and guidance, electro-optics, remote weapon systems, precision guided munitions, and system engineering for system integration. In 2019, India placed an order for P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft, scheduled to be delivered to the Navy starting from May 2020. They sport the L-3 Communications Wescam MX-20HD digital Electro-Optical and Infrared (EO/IR) multi-spectral sensor turret, along with other specifications requested by the Indian Navy.

In 2019, Controp Precession Technologies partnered with BEL to supply a Ruggedized Day/Night Optronic sensor system for the Indian Armed Forces. These can be integrated into a host system, and it features a daylight CCD Camera and a ‘Thermal Imaging Camera’, with a continuous optical zoom lens. In 2020, Controp was contracted by DRDO, to supply the company’s iSKY-50HD Electro-Optical, and Infrared (EO/IR) system, to be employed in UAVs. The iSky-50HD system makes use of highly sensitive multi-spectral sensors that are gyro-stabilized and have advanced image processing capabilities, which make them helpful for a variety of airborne applications. The US administration approved the sale of the Integrated Air Defense Weapon Systems (IADWS) to India in 2020. The entire deal is valued around US$1.9 billion. A part of the deal were M4A1 rifles, 5.56 cartridges, EO/IR systems, and hand-held remote terminal. As part of another deal, Lockheed Marin will be supplying an electro-optical fire-control system to help India’s AH-64 Apache attack-helicopter’s crew to fire weapons accurately and navigate better in adverse weather and in the night.

In August 2021, the Indian Army initiated the indigenous upgrade of 811 of its licence built BMP-2/2K ‘Sarath’ infantry combat vehicles (ICVs) by equipping them with more powerful engines, night fighting capability and varied advanced systems. The Army despatched a project sanction order (PSO) to 12 domestic private and public sector companies – referred to as Development Agencies (DAs) – to produce a retrofitted prototype within 52 weeks (or by 31 July 2022) for user trials. The BMP-2 upgrade would be processed under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category of the DAP 2020. The projected ICV upgrade would include fitting them with more powerful engines to replace their present UTD20/2 300hp power packs, third-generation thermal imager-based gunner and panoramic sights, modern fire control systems and automatic target trackers. The retrofit would also encompass upgrading the platforms on-board weapon systems that include a 30mm 2A42 auto-canon with dual ammunition feeds, capable of firing 9M113 Konkurs wire-guided anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and a secondary coaxial 7.62x54mm machine gun.

In December 2021, the Defence Procurement Board (DPB) cleared the purchase of 29,760 image intensifiers worth Rs 1410 crore to go with the Sig Sauers.

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