In the fiscal year 2023-24, BEL successfully secured orders worth around Rs 35,000 crore. Among the notable defence orders obtained during the year were Electronic Fuzes, EW Systems, Communication Systems for naval warships, Fire Control Systems, Akash Prime Weapon System, Radars, Sonars, Software Defined Radios, Night Vision Devices, Tactical Communication Systems and other projects in Non-defence sector.

With this, the total order book of BEL as on April 1st, 2024, stands at around Rs 76,000 crore.

BEL also achieved export sales of around US$ 92.98 million during FY 2023-24, as against the previous year’s export turnover of US$ 48.33 million, registering a growth of 92%. Major products exported include Transmit & Receive (TR) Modules, Compact Multi-Purpose Advanced Stabilisation System (CoMPASS), Radar & Electronic Warfare Systems, Medical Electronics, Communication equipment, etc.

As on April 1st, 2024, BEL’s export order book stands at US$ 407 million, with export orders acquired during the fiscal year amounting to US$ 211 million.

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The system will comprise sensors and processing units retrofitted on armoured vehicles like tanks and mechanised infantry combat vehicles to detect the use of lasers by the enemy for detection and target acquisition and to take counter-measures.

The project is being executed by DRDO’s Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE) at Dehradun, which is inviting the industry to design, develop and manufacture the proposed system. IRDE’s research arena includes electro-optical instruments, thermal imagers, night-vision devices and laser-based instruments.

The proposed system is required to detect threats at ranges up to six kilometres. It will have four sensors mounted on the vehicle’s turret at different places to provide a 360-degree coverage to detect threats from sources such as laser range finders, laser target designators and laser munition guiding beams.

The control units and display screens will be mounted inside, adjacent to the commander’s console, and give out an audio and visual warning to the crew, classify the type of threat and enable them to take counter-measures such as firing smoke grenades to obscure the vehicle and move to a different location.

Earlier, another DRDO laboratory, Laser Science and Technology Centre, New Delhi, had produced a laser threat detection system for the indigenously developed Arjun main battle tank. The Army has in its inventory several other armoured vehicles like the T-72 and T-90 tanks and BMP 2/3 mechanised infantry combat vehicles.

The DRDO has been working in the field of lasers for a host of other applications such as protection of high-value assets from aerial attacks, safe ammunition disposal, surveillance, guidance of precision munitions, optical-dazzling, target location and acquisition, detection and identification of explosives, chemical and biological agents and for testing and evaluating various systems.

Besides combat operations by the armed forces, some of these systems can also be used by the paramilitary forces and the police for border management and in low-intensity conflict environment.

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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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Night vision devices (NVDs) are lacking both in quantity and quality in the armed forces particularly in the Army. In recent years, transgressions by the Chinese have doubled and face-offs have increased manifold. The armed forces have to increase surveillance and upgrade our night vision capabilities to secure the borders. Along the Line of Control (LC) cease fire violations and infiltration attempts by Pakistan have also increased.

Scaling of the NVDs for the Indian Army has been finalized. There is a colossal requirement of NVDs, which require substantial funding. Despite the high cost, these devices are required urgently for achieving optimal surveillance capabilities. Soldiers must be equipped with night vision from sub-tactical level operations to operational levels.

Recent Developments

The requirement of NVDs for use in various types of terrain – high altitude, jungle, riverine or desert – each with their peculiarities. Moreover, NVDs should must withstand vagaries of weather, record and communicate images to higher headquarters, have in-built global positioning system (GPS) and laser range finder (LRF), be easily portable and easily maintainable. For easy upgradation and better flexibility future night sights should be modular with a common basic structure and add-ons based on requirements. Critical requirements for NVDs are weapon compatible ranges, ruggedness, easy sustainability and adequate power requirements.

Industry Perspective

To meet large number of NVDs required by the armed forces, ‘Make in India’ provides an opportunity to the private industry. DPSUs still have an unfair advantage as they often bag contracts on nomination basis. Participation must be based on merit. Transfer of technology (ToT) route may not be ideal as it does not cater for evolving technology. Indian companies must develop in-house technologies Overseas companies are far ahead in cooled and uncooled sensors, new detectors like XGA, VGA Short Wave Infra Red (SWIR), MWIR and LWIR.

New Technologies

Newer devices are getting better in Magnification, Resolution, Sensitivity, Angle of field of view, Eye relief, Power of the Infrared Illuminator and Detection and recognition distance. They are also getting lighter and smaller.

New developments in the area of image intensification and thermal devices have been successful in providing vision over a wide range of spectrum coupled with advent of sensor fusion technology.

Currently, high-end infrared imaging tech requires cryogenic freezing to work and devices are costly to produce. new technologies are being invented to work at room temperatures and produce extremely lightweight devices, cheap and easy to mass produce.

Market Projections

The defence industry is adopting NVDs to cater to the increasing demand for patrolling, surveillance and conventional and counter-insurgency operations. Adoption of the NVDs integrated with near-infrared (NIR) imaging technology for security and surveillance applications with aid market growth.

On the basis of technology, the market is segmented into image intensifier and thermal imaging, out of which, the image intensifier segment is anticipated to have maximum market shares on the back of its wide range of use for different application for instance, surveillance, targeting, navigation and others.

The global night vision devices market size is projected to reach USD 9.02 billion by the end of 2027. The massive investments in the research and development of efficient products will contribute to the growth of the overall market in the coming years.

Night Vision Devices Market by Device Type (Binoculars and Monocular, Cameras, Glasses, Goggles, and Scopes), by Application (Border surveillance, Engineering, Fire and Rescue, Law Enforcement, Maritime & Coastal surveillance, Medical, Security, and Others (Natural Resource Agency Applications, etc.), the market was worth USD 4.66 billion in 2019 and will exhibit a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period, 2020-2027.

Objectives

The event will bring together all stakeholders including users, staff involved in the procurement process, maintenance agencies, industry and scientific community to exchange ideas and information on latest technologies, products, challenges and the way ahead in improving night fighting capabilities.

NVD Requirements

The Infantry have declared their requirement of TI and II sights. That’s not counting the mechanised forces, artillery and all observation devices:

Ni Sight for Carbine (II) $542 mn
Ni Sight for Rifle (TI) $812 mn
Ni Sight for Rifle (II) $650 mn
Ni Sight for LMG (TI) $339 mn
Ni Sight for LMG (II) $ 91 mn
Ni Sight for MGL (TI) $ 87 mn
Ni Sight for MMG (TI) $125 mn
Ni Sight for Gren Lr (TI) $105 mn
TI Sight for 84mm RL $228 mn
II Sight for 84mm RL $3.6 mn
Total Cost $2983 mn

Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap 2018
Night Vision Sights for Tanks 4000
Night Vision Sights for ICVs 2000
Helmet Mounted NVBs Hundreds
Next-gen NVDs (IR/TI) Hundreds
TI Sights 55,000
II Sights 180,000

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Night Vision & Electro-optics Webinar and Virtual Expo was organised by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS) and Indian Military Review on 16-19 Jan 2021.

Inaugural Session

Welcoming the delegates, Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director, CENJOWS stated that 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. The need of the hour, he said, was to reduce the OODA loop, increase battlefield transparency and use technology to stay ahead of the adversary. Night vision and optronic devices provide this key situational advantage to the soldier and can be used in all spectrum of ops which holds great advantages. Use technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine language (ML), Big Data, 5G and IOT and integration of these to work in autonomous mode and linkages with command and control centres needs to done in earnest, because whoever controls the night will win the battle. The user, private industry, DPSUs, academia should come together to create an environment which overcomes the procedural bottlenecks and ensure self sufficiency in this field which will also be aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat policy.

Keynote Address. Lt Gen HS Kahlon, Director General Capability Development, Army HQ highlighted the prevailing security environment, especially along our Northern Borders, the impact of the pandemic, the reality of a two-front war and the economic challenges in modernising the Army. He referred to the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict and the role of technology in future wars. Night Vision Devices (NVD) were critical for battlefield transparency and have played a critical role in Kargil war and counter-insurgency (CI) operations. The future needs of the forces in this critical area should be met by indigenous technology and the Industry should rise to the challenge. He said that the procurement procedure was being streamlined and a number of steps were being taken to reduce the delays and bottlenecks in procurement, which included priority to Indegenous Design Development & Manufacture (IDDM), trials through a central organisation like the Trials Wing, clear formulation of Staff Qualitative Requirements (SQR), greater interaction with industry, encouraging ideas and innovation through IDEX, etc. Aligned with the Atmanirbhar policy, the emphasis would be on procuring equipment through indigenous sources. He exhorted all the participants to interact and find vibrant solutions for developing NVDs in India.

Theme Address. Lt Gen Anil Kumar Samantara, Director General Infantry, Army HQ, said that the requirement of NVDs would be an important battle winning factor in times to come. The situation on our Northern borders had clearly shown that the need of the hour was to equip soldiers with reliable and technologically advanced equipment, which should be indigenous as the threat is real and present. The technologies should be futuristic and be robust enough to withstand the harsh and adverse weather conditions as seen in Ladakh. He emphasised the need to invest in technologies in the cooled and uncooled thermal imaging (TI) system, image intensifier (II) tubes and electro-optic (EO) systems of 3rd generation and beyond, Sights for weapons and ballistic computer sights were all planned to be procured. Surveillance capability in super high altitude areas (HAA) needed to be improved. The problem statements had been finalised and shared with the industry. All stakeholders should now work together to create innovative solutions with a proactive approach.

Industry Sponsor’s Presentation. Mr Ved Prakash, Head Optronics, Tata Advanced System gave the industry perspective and highlighted the strides made by the industry in developing indigenous NVD and EO devices. He gave an overview of the work being done by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) in this field and the product range being developed. He highlighted the excellent infrastructure which had been created by the company for R&D and testing. These products were compatible with the JSS 5555 and MIL 810 standards and were best in class. In order to incentivise the Industry, he recommended that the NVD and EO equipment should be included in the new negative import list, all future procurements in this field should be categorised IDDM, vendors should be allowed to field one product per EMD so as to reduce the complexity of trials and the SQRs should be of the best and latest world standards.

Industry Perspective. Col KV Kuber, Director Defence and Aerospace, Ernst & Young gave a historical insight on the evolution of NVDs and EO devices and highlighted the need to increase fundamental research in this field. He also spoke about the technologies being used around the world and the need to shift to high resolution, multi-spectral domain. He stated that the defence public sector undertakings (DPSU) had the advantage of securing revenue procurements and they also participate in capital procurement cases while the presence of private industry in revenue procurements was negligible. This needs to change in order to encourage private industry. There is huge potential of growth in this field as these are required by CAPFs and state Govts also, thus we should synergise the R&D efforts so as to be totally self sufficient in NVDs and EO eqpt. The EY-IMR report on NVDs and Electro-optics was released at the end of the session.

Session 2 – Emerging Technologies

The session was chaired by Maj Gen KV Jauhar, Addl DG, Army Design Bureau. He gave an overview of the use of technology in modern wars and the far reaching impact of these on war fighting. He spoke about the need of aerial intelligence, surveillance & reconnaissance (ISR) resources for the Army and the new initiatives being undertaken in concert with the private industry, academia, Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and DPSUs in developing indigenous best-in-class products and capability. He highlighted the need to bring down the life cycle costs of acquisitions as budget constraints would always be an important consideration.

Mr Vaibhav Gupta, Director, MKU Ltd gave an overview of the company with special reference to their focus on R&D and producing world class products. He gave insight into the products being manufactured by the company especially NVDs, where the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) technology was being used for image processing thus giving excellent results.

Dr N Ranjana, Director DSTA, DRDO spoke of the importance of technology in ISR arena and the improvements taking place in sensors, materials, computation, integration, costs, etc. The use of quantum and nano technology along with AI, ML and incorporating cameras with panoramic vision & FPA technology would transform this field in the future. She highlighted that the Indian industry and R&D organisations have taken great strides in this field and should continue R&D to create the futuristic equipment indigenously.

MrAmbareesh Dixit from HGH group spoke about the growth and the products being developed by his company and gave a detailed talk on the test and measurement products being created for the NVDs and EO devices and how these could help in ensuring higher effectiveness of the devices even in field conditions.

Mr Ronen Sharashov, Director of Marketing, SCD spoke about the leadership position which the Israeli firm had acquired globally and the advanced technologies and IR products which were being developed by the firm for defence applications.

Mr Vinod Yadav from TASL gave an overview of Tata group and its global customer base. He highlighted the product portfolio of his company, the optronic infrastructure created and R&D being done by the company in NVDs and EO systems. He also spoke about the future trends in the field of multi spectral sensor fusion, higher FOM, Data fusion and use of AI/ ML for autonomous systems, etc.

Session 3 – NVD Requirements

This session was chaired by Maj Gen Sanjay Rihani, Addl DG Information Systems, Army HQ. He highlighted the importance of technology in winning modern wars, the 24×7 nature of warfare and increased transparency, lethality and mobility which will make the use of NVDs and EO systems imperative. He gave an overview of the roadmap for night enablement of the Indian Army and the steps being taken to meet the given timelines.

Col Amitoz Singh, Colonel Infantry-8, Directorate General of Infantry, Army HQ gave an insight into the requirements of NVDs and EO systems by the Infantry for soldiers, personal weapons and crew served weapons. He gave a detailed presentation on the status of various procurement cases and the future plans. He also covered the future of infantry soldiers in so far as equipment was concerned, which also included NVDs. He highlighted the need for producing robust and effective indigenous equipment by Indian companies.

GpCapt Manu Singh from the Air HQ outlined the IAF’s needs for NVDs and EO equipment. He covered operational dynamics and peculiarities in use of NVDs by the Air Force and also gave existing capabilities and challenges of NVDs held with IAF. He covered two problem statements pertaining to NVGs to be used for application of non-smart weapons and technical alternatives for NVGs for pilots. He emphasised the need to provide cost-effective Made in India solutions.

Capt (IN) Rajneesh Dalal, Capt (SR) Gun, Directorate of Staff Requirements, Naval HQ covered the requirements of the Indian Navy for NVDs and EO equipment in short, medium and long term periods. He highlighted the peculiarities of naval operations, the limitations of radars and the need to use EO devices to increase battlefield awareness, which was a critical aspect of the maritime operations keeping in mind the high degree of manoeuvre this environment possesses. He gave out the key naval requirements for the EO devices in the sub surface, surface and the aerial arenas of maritime operations.

Session 4 – Sub Conventional Operations

This session was chaired by Maj Gen (Dr) GD Bakshi, Editor of Indian Military review. He highlighted the importance of technology in winning modern wars and how the use of hand-held TI (HHTI) and the border fence in the early days of insurgency had reduced infiltration in Jammu & Kashmir. The use of EO devices would give great advantage to the soldiers in the Line of Control (LC), Line of Actual Control (LAC) environments due to the 24×7 nature of warfare and increased transparency.

Mr Sandeep Shah, Managing Director, Optimized Electrotech gave an overview of his company, highlighting the product portfolio. The company was producing world class products, which were rugged and usable in all weather and field conditions. He further highlighted that the company was aligned with the Atmanirbhar call and the products were completely being made in India.

Maj Gen Mandeep Singh, Addl DG Rashtriya Rifles spoke on operational scenario in CI operations and the propensity to carry out most operations in day time in order to overcome the limitation of visual feedback and the need to reduce collateral damage. He emphasised the importance of NVDs and EO devices in giving great advantage to the soldiers in night operations, which provided surprise element in the conduct of operations. However, the scaling and availability of these devices was limited, thus forcing very few night operations. He highlighted the changed paradigm and the need to scale these to each soldier and procure the latest equipment for assisting soldiers to adopt new tactics in the CI grid. He spoke about the future requirements of these devices for the Rashtriya Rifles and procurement timelines.

Mr KS Banyal, Inspector General Border Security Force (BSF) spoke on the challenges in border management at night operations and gave a brief introduction about the terrain along the international boundary (IB) with Pakistan and Bangladesh, where BSF was operating. He highlighted the precarious nature of border management operations, especially at night and the importance of using electro-optical devices to gain advantage over the adversary. He also spoke about the ineffectiveness of NVDs in foggy/ bad weather and the need to have all-weather systems. He also gave an overview of the steps being taken to make the borders secure with fencing, lighting and electronic means being increasingly co-opted in most areas.

Session 5 – Day-2 Inaugural Session

Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director, CENJOWS welcomed all participants and flagged the important issues which had been highlighted a day earlier.

Inaugural Address. Lt Gen KS Brar, Director General Armoured Corps gave the inaugural address and highlighted the need for the user to understand technology so as to work with the innovators in creating effective solutions for the Services. He highlighted that the NVDs and EO systems were not standalone devices and need to be integrated with other systems for achieving effective results. There was, thus, a need for a systems integrator to co-opt all the systems and come up with solutions required by the users. He further stated that there is a need to synergise technology at the national, Tri-service and Service level. This would give great dividends and ensure cost effectiveness. He highlighted the need to upgrade equipment as all equipment could not be state-of-the-art, therefore, there was adequate scope in all arenas of technology development for the industry with some working in upgrading equipment while others created disruptive technologies.

Session 6 – Night Vision Devices For Platforms

This session was chaired by Air Vice Marshal PM Sinha, Asst Chief of Air Staff Operations (Offensive), Air HQ. He highlighted the importance of night fighting in the current environment and the need to create this capability in platforms, weapons and ISR to reduce the fog of war and prevent fratricide.

Col Vikas Magar from Army Aviation Corps gave a talk on Night Operations by Army Aviation helicopters and spoke about the existing capabilities of night operations by Army Aviation, the NVD equipment available worldwide and the requirements of Army Aviation in the future. He highlighted the need to procure light-weight, high-resolution devices using white phosphorous so as to reduce fatigue of the pilot while achieving better accuracy and clarity.

Col Gurpreet Singh, Colonel FRCV, Directorate General of Mechanised Forces, spoke about the Night Fighting Capability of Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs). He gave a historical background of the use of technology in AFVs, the necessity of night enablement, the current status of the Mechanised Forces in this field and the future requirements to overcome limitations in night fighting. He also spoke of the technologies which were desired, the platforms in which this technology was required as also the different types of NVDs being procured for AFVs, viz, commanders, gunners and drivers devices with their specific requirements. He deliberated on the question that whether technology should drive the tactics or it should be other way around.

Col Abhijit Singh, Colonel Artillery-9, Artillery Directorate Army HQ spoke about Surveillance and Target Acquisition by Night. He gave an overview of the importance of ISR in a battlefield, the requirement of NVDs and EO equipment for surveillance and target acquisition and the linkages between the sensors and shooters. He highlighted the need for greater interaction between the users and industry for ensuring speedy procurement.

Session 7 – Night Vision Devices For Platforms

This session was chaired by Lt Gen Anjan Mukherjee, former Consultant OFB & former Director General Artillery. He stated that night fighting capability was an amalgamation of a number of technologies such as EO, EM, fusion, short wave infrared (SWIR), integration with composites and light weight materials, AI, etc. The need of the hour was to produce indigenous equipment which was usable in field conditions and aligned with AtmaNirbhar policy. The aim should be to provide solutions for day-to-day problems of the user rather than showcasing technology.

Dr Sudhir Khare, Scientist G, IRDE, DRDO spoke on future trends and emerging technologies in IR imaging for defence applications. He gave a detailed presentation on the excellent work being carried out by IRDE in this field. He highlighted that most research and equipment provided to the Services, be it for AFVs or infantry or artillery had been conceived and developed at IRDE. He highlighted that research on advanced technologies was also being undertaken and also shared with the private industry. He spoke on the technology trends in this field, the gaps in our capabilities and the way ahead to overcome them.

Mr Abhijit Chakraborty spoke about the latest trends in NVDs in the Indian context. He explained the latest trends in the II tubes, the importance of using the right technology for the specific equipment and the suitability of green light to reduce fatigue as compared to white phosphorous.

Mr Sourabh Bhaskar, Works Manager, Ordnance Factory, Dehradun gave a detailed presentation on the yeoman work being carried out his Ordnance Factory in productionising, testing and maintenance of NVDs in India. He gave an insight into the design aspects and the challenges faced in manufacturing NVDs in India.

Closing Address

Lt Gen Sunil Srivastava, Director, CENJOWS, highlighted the advances which have taken place in the indigenous manufacture of NVDs and EO devices in India. He stated that the seminar had clearly brought out the increased capability of our industry in this field and it was reassuring for all stakeholders that the future appeared bright. He, however, flagged the need to synergise efforts and have jointness in QRs, protocols and systems. Future wars would involve distributed war fighting, autonomous decision making, all weather 24×7 operations, miniaturisation and use of high technologies like AI, ML at individual soldier level. We need to ensure that the systems created are aligned towards these futuristic requirements.

Vote of Thanks

Maj Gen Ravi Arora, Chief Editor, Indian Military Review thanks all sponsors, exhibiters, delegates, speakers and CENJOWS for their particopatuion and help in making the event successful.

Recommendations

•             Gaps in capabilities should be addressed in a synergised manner with participation of DRDO and private industry together.

•             Private vendors must be encouraged and certain amount of hand-holding was essential to find innovative solutions under ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. One suggestion which emerged was to include all NVDs and EO equipment in the negative list for exports. There is need for infusion of investment and technology.

•             There was need of level playing field for all the manufacturers especially for private players in the revenue procurements where the DPSUs and Government agencies had a monopoly. Lack of proper specifications by the users and limitations of procurement from single vendor resulted in delays in procurement.

•             Formulation of QRs based on the latest technology will allow faster growth and also assist the forces in acquiring world class equipment. There was need to prioritize and plan procurement of NVDs of all the Services in concert.

•             The delays in procurement need to be addressed at all levels. The procedures should not dictate the pace of procurement by becoming all important. There is need to streamline formulation of QRs, conduct of trials and training of personnel. initiatives underway should be given traction.

•             Requirement of night vision capability by armed forces especially Infantry, Artillery and Armoured Corps was shared with the industry in detail. The Air Force and Navy highlighted their requirements especially for increased battled transparency and alternatives for NVG for pilots. It is for the industry to now come uo with solutions for these needs.

•             Use of technology to overcome limitations of weather especially fog was highlighted by all the users and industry was asked to come up with innovative solutions.

•             There has to be greater synergy between all the stake holders. User must understand technology so as to ask for the right equipment. This would also help in framing appropriate QRs. Use of IDEX and other initiatives to sponsor innovation needs to be encouraged.

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