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TIME TO ACT
AIRBORNE WEAPONS
DEFENCE and SECURITY of INDIA
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CREDIBLE SUBMARINE FORCE
The real growth of aerial weapons came when the American forces experimented various bombs & missiles I ANIL CHOPRA
PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS DEFENCE PLANNING
Indian army’s bid to indigeneously build FICV in the private sector reflects concerns in defence planning I RAHUL BEDI AUGUST 2014
www.defencesecurityindia.com
WARNING BELLS ARE RINGING FOR THE INDIAN NAVY’S SUBMARINE FORCE THAT IS NOT ONLY UNDER STRENGTH BUT ALSO AFFECTED BY MAINTENANCE PROBLEMS I S GOVIND
VOLUME 6
ISSUE 5
` 250
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LETTER FROM THE
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editor
or all those who look forward to Narendra Modi government to cross the ‘final frontier,’ so to say, and liberalise the defence-industrial sector, have been given a bit to chew on. Over the past month, the government decided to allow 49 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) into the sector. Predictably, this has aroused two kinds of reaction. There is the so called ‘protectionist’ group who have expressed their peevishness on the increased ceiling that would supposedly give impetus to the foreign investors to get interested in the India story. There are others, the humunguous ‘liberalisers’ who think 49 per cent, which is a minority shareholding would not allow ‘management control,’ and in turn would make the foreign arms majors stay away still. There is an interesting bit of information that is in circulation, which holds that the majority 51 per cent share can remain distributed over more than one shareholder, thus not allowing any one of them to enjoy a real majority. This will supposedly introduce a bit of suppleness in the management of the joint stock companies, with the 49 per cent-holding foreign entity having a fair amount of liberty to tinker with the management of the corporate entity. However, the ministry of commerce and industry says nothing is really clear about how this liberlisation measure will shape up, till the ‘Cabinet order’ is issued. Having said that, if one expects an immediate bee-line of foreign investors breaking down the doors of the Indian corporates for potential joint ventures, one would be considered a bit too enthusiastic. For, defence is such an area where, for the investments to turn profits, there is always a time lag, especially if the product is an innovation. What is likely is the foreign corporates (read Western producers) to trans-ship some of their production lines to India to take advantage of the labour differential. And that itself will be an important development in providing a fillip to Indian domestic defence production. Pinaki Bhattacharya
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There is an interesting bit of information that is in circulation, which holds that the majority 51 per cent share can remain distributed over more than one shareholder, thus not allowing any one of them to be a real majority.
CONTENTS
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A CREDIBLE SUBMARINE FORCE FOR INDIA SUBMARINE
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Warning bells are ringing for the Indian Navy’s submarine force that is not only under strength but are also affected by maintenance problems and lax safety standards as recent accidents have shown in bold relief.
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AUGUST 2014
REQUIREMENTS FOR TACTICAL NETWORK SYSTEM GEOSPATIAL INTEL
AERIAL WEAPONS: TIME TO ACT AIRBORNEWEAPONS
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The real growth in the technologies of aerial weapons came with the Vietnam War where the American forces experimented various bombs and missiles and their various modes of delivery be it heat-seeking or laser designation.
COMMUNICATION CHANNELS AND SENSORS NAVAL COMMUNICATION
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At sea in war, a naval ship targets the enemy vessels by listening to them through communication channels by intercepting their messages through wireless radios or seeing them through radars and sensing them through sonars.
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CHANGING COIN STRATEGIES AND TACTICS COUNTER INSURGENCY
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Increasingly the counter-insurgency operations are throwing up new tactical and strategic challenges for the commanders and the political leadership.
5
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In this largely theoretical treatment of the needs of Geospatial intelligence gathering, one cannot but emphasise its importance in the context of all spectrum warfare.
PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS DEFENCE PLANNING
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Indian army’s bid to indigenously build FICVs in the private sector – albeit with foreign partners – reflects the confusions and concerns with Indian defence planning in the medium and long term.
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CONTRIBUTORS
RAHUL BEDI
BRIG (RETD) A S NAGRA
AIR MARSHAL (RETD) ANIL CHOPRA
PRAVASH KUMAR MISHRA
Rahul Bedi is the New Delhi correspondent for Jane’s Defence Weekly, UK and contributes to it on a diverse range of security and military related matters. He is also the India correspondent for the Daily Telegraph, London and the Irish Times.
Brig (Retd) A S Nagra superannuated from Indian Army in Feb 2011 after 33 years of distinguished service. He has done Post Graduate level Technical courses in Electronics and achieved specialisation in Radars and Anti Tank Missile Systems. During the service, he has gained extensive experience in conceptualising, developing, prototyping and exploitation of Automated Battle Field Surveillance Systems forming important component of Network Centric Warfare systems in Geographical Information System environment.
Air Marshal Anil Chopra is an ex NDA Air Force officer who was a fighter pilot in the IAF. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and Test Pilot who was among the initial lot to train on Mirage 2000 in France. He commanded a Mirage Squadron, two operational air bases and the IAF’s Flight Test Centre ASTE. He was the Team Leader of MiG 21 Upgrade program in Russia for over 4 years. He is currently a member of Armed Forces Tribunal. He is also a member of Executive council of Jawahar Lal University, New Delhi
The author was one of the first from the BSF Cadre to have served as Addl. Director General in a paramilitary force. He remained deployed with the troops in the extreme border of IndoBangladesh from 1971 till 1990. As DIG BSF Nagaland & Manipur he had an experience to deal with the north east militants. Similarly, as IG Border Security Force Shillong, the author was responsible for the security of Indo-Bangladesh border in Assam, Mizoram, Meghalaya and counterinsurgency operations in Nagaland & Manipur. He superannuated after 40 years of BSF service as Addl Director General in 2011.
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DEFENCE and SECURITY of INDIA AUGUST 2014 DR S KULSHRESTHA
CMDE (RETD) S GOVIND
RAdm. S. Kulshreshtha, Indian Navy in the year 1975 and served as Director General of Naval Armament Ministry of Defence (Navy) where he was directly responsible for availability of reliable and safe naval armament. He has superannuated from Indian Navy in 2011 and is currently unaffiliated. He has been writing in defence journals on issues related to matters Navy, Armament technology and indigenisation.
Commodore Govind is a retired naval officer and a submarine specialist. He commanded various frontline ships and submarines as well as submarine training and operational bases. He held appointments at Base, Command and Fleet headquarters. He headed the Directorate of Submarine operations as well as Submarine acquisition at Naval Headquarters. He retired from HQ IDS, where he served in the Perspective Planning & Force Development Branch.
VOLUME 6, ISSUE 5
EDITOR Pinaki Bhattacharya CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bipin Kumar ASST.ART DIRECTOR Ajay Kumar JR. FEATURES WRITER Jaya Singh SENIOR MANAGER INTERNATIONAL MARKETING Vishal Mehta (E-Mail: vishalmehta@mtil.biz) MANAGER MARKETING Jakhongir Djalmetov (E-Mail: joha@mtil.biz) AD SALES Prateek Singh (E-Mail: prateeksingh@mtil.biz) Pakhee Malhotra (E-Mail: pakhee@mtil.biz) SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR Atul Bali (E-Mail: atul@mtil.biz) PRODUCTION & PRE-PRESS Sunil Dubey, Ritesh Roy, Jeetendra Madaan MTC PUBLISHING LIMITED 323, UdyogVihar, Ph-IV, Gurgaon 122016 Ph: +91 0124-4759500 Fax: +91 0124-4759550 CHAIRMAN J. S. Uberoi PRESIDENT Xavier Collaco FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Puneet Nanda GLOBAL SALES REPRESENTATIVES Benelux Cornelius W. Bontje Tel: (41) 79 635 2621 Email: cbontje@ymail.com France/Spain Stephane de Remusat, REM International Tel: (33) 5 3427 0130 Email: rem-media@sfr.fr Germany/Austria/Switzerland/Italy/UK Sam Baird, Whitehill Media Tel: (44-1883) 715 697 Mobile: (44-7770) 237 646 E-Mail: sam@whitehillmedia.com Israel Liat Heiblum, Oreet - International Media Tel: (97 2) 3 570 6527 Email: liat@oreet-marcom.com Russia Alla Butova, NOVO-Media Latd, Tel/Fax : (7 3832) 180 885 Mobile : (7 960) 783 6653 Email :alla@mediatransasia.com Scandinavia/SouthAfrica Emanuela Castagnetti-Gillberg Tel: +46 31 799 9028 E-Mail:egillberg@glocalnet.net South Korea Young Seoh Chinn, Jes Media Inc. Tel: (82-2) 481 3411/13 E-Mail: jesmedia@unitel.co.kr East-Central Europe/Greece/Turkey Zena Coupé Tel: (44) 1923 852537 Email: zena@expomedia.biz USA (East/South East)/Canada Margie Brown, BLESSALL Media LLC. Tel : (+1 540) 341 7581 Email :margiespub@rcn.com USA (West/SouthWest)/Brazil Diane Obright, Blackrock Media Inc. Tel: +1 (858) 759 3557 Email: blackrockmediainc@icloud.com Defence and Security of India is published and printed by Xavier Collaco on behalf of MTC Publishing Limited. Published at 323, UdyogVihar, Ph- IV, Gurgaon 122016 and printed at Nutech Photolithographers B-240, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase-I,New Delhi-110020, India. Entire contents Copyright © 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction and translation in any language in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Requests for permission should be directed to MTC Publishing Limited. Opinions carried in the magazine are those of the writers’ and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors or publishers. While the editors do their utmost to verify information published they do not accept responsibility for its absolute accuracy. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited material or for material lost or damaged in transit. All correspondence should be addressed to MTC Publishing Limited. SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION DefenceandSecurity of India is obtained by subscription. For subscription enquiries, please contact: dsisubscriptions@mtil.biz
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A CREDIBLE SUBMARINE F
SUBMARINE
Warning bells are ringing for the Indian Navy’s submarine force that is not only under strength but are also affected by maintenance problems and lax safety standards as recent accidents have shown in bold relief.
SATALURI GOVIND
KEY POINTS
Indian Navy’s own SSBN programme
has to take-off and quickly.
The almost empty inventory of SSKs
seriously compromises the security of the country especially in the littorals. The leased Akula class SSN cannot surely be the only one hunting and detecting other ships and subs, between the Persian Gulf and the Malacca Straits.
T
he ‘Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA)’ driven largely by advances in technology has resulted in improvements and innovations in various aspects of modern warfare. The long range precision guided munitions, increasing sophistication in weapons of different calibre, all pervasive search and detection systems, robust networks of command and communications as well as enhanced capabilities of various platforms have completely changed the contours of the battle field. The surface and air domains
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have become highly transparent to a variety of sensors rendering ships and aircraft vulnerable. This has led to various stealth features being incorporated in their design in an effort to maintain some semblance of surprise. However, the underwater domain continues to retain its opacity and affords the Submarine an edge against the surface ships. Not surprisingly therefore, a majority of countries are investing large sums of money in acquiring and maintaining a small but credible submarine force to safeguard their national interests.
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E FORCE FOR INDIA
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open oceans. Subsequently, the development of ‘snorkel’ enabled the submarine to remain submerged for long durations and reduced its vulnerability against radar equipped aircraft. The weaponry has evolved from the simple ram to guns, torpedoes, mines and finally missiles. Advances in technology and greater processing power have enabled their passive and towed array sonar to detect enemy ships at greater ranges. At the same time, quieting techniques and acoustic coatings have greatly reduced chances of their own detection from enemy ships and aircraft. The introduction of nuclear propulsion which endows the submarine with unlimited endurance and great speeds as well as the development of underwater missile launch capability has literally made these submarines invincible at sea. The nuclear powered attack submarines (SSN) armed with powerful torpedoes and land attack capable missiles have proved their mettle during the Gulf wars. The nuclear powered, ballistic missile carrying submarines (SSBN) have given nations the most reliable ‘second strike capability’ and became the bedrock for deterrence postWorld War II. The development of ‘Air Independent Propulsion’ packages to increase the underwater endurance has greatly enhanced the capabilities of conventional submarines.
Evolution of Submarine+
John Holland, the inventor of submarine stated in 1895 that, “the submarine is not like other naval vessels, compelled to select for its antagonist a vessel of about its own or inferior power: the larger and more powerful its mark, the better its opportunity.” The submarine was first deployed against HMS Eagle to break the blockade of New York harbour during the American Revolution War. During World War I and II, the Submarine became the most lethal weapon unleashed against merchant shipping, with
the ‘Second Battle of the Atlantic’ made famous by the ‘wolf pack’ tactics of the German submarines. The sinking of the Argentine cruiser ‘Belgrano’ during the Falklands war which confined the Argentine navy’s operations to its territorial waters goes to highlight the psychological effect that a submarine has on the enemy at sea. The initial thrust of submarine design was towards development of bigger hulls with greater endurance, higher speeds and deeper diving depths to undertake operations against the enemy shipping in
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DCNS
Submarine Operations
The Scorpene is one of the latest families of advanced submarines. Being sold to the Chilean, Malaysian, Brazilian and Indian navies, it is being marketed as a scalable platform with conventional or AIP propulsion system
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The concept of submarine operations has come a long way from the rudimentary ‘ramming’ tactics of sinking ships to ensuring complete ‘annihilation’ of mankind through a variety of nuclear armed ballistic missiles. The initial deployment of submarines in harbours and coastal waters gradually shifted to open seas and across oceans as the submarines evolved in size and endurance. Whilst the guns fitted onboard and available intelligence limited their deployment to a narrow envelope ahead of enemy shipping, the advent of torpedoes, better onboard sensors and high underwater speeds broadened the deployment envelope. The harnessing of nuclear power for propulsion as well as the enhanced lethality and ranges of weapons have enabled the submarine to attack its unsuspecting targets literally from any direction, thereby enhancing its capabilities in open waters.
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SUBMARINE
The period of cold war has witnessed both the Super Powers deploying their SSBNs on ‘round the clock’ patrols with rival SSNs being employed on ‘search and detection’ missions as well as ‘shadowing’ of surface forces. This has led to various ‘near miss’ incidents and heightened tensions at sea. The end of Cold War has drastically brought down the deployment pattern of the submarines and the great rivalry in open oceans between the two superpowers. Consequent to normalisation of relations between the two, there has been a shift in the conduct of operations from ‘open waters’ to ‘shallow waters’ as the battle space moved towards land. The coastal waters are alive with innumerable noise sources, are characterised by poor propagation conditions and include very high traffic density, which has ramifications on submarine operations. These waters are more suited for smaller conventional submarines rather than the bigger SSNs. It is because of this inherent advantage that various regional powers are acquiring and deploying conventional submarines which are very difficult to locate and track. The modern conventional submarine with AIP is a versatile and lethal platform equipped with advanced sensor systems and capable of firing anti-ship/ land attack missiles, torpedoes, mines, decoys as well as launch Special Forces. These submarines in conjunction with land based aircraft fitted with anti-ship cruise missiles and other defensive measures are well suited for
‘Area access denial’, especially against superior forces. Submarines are best utilised in sea denial role due to the stealthy nature of their operations. Whilst nuclear submarines could be deployed for strategic deterrence and predominantly offensive tasks, conventional submarines can be utilised for offensive and defensive missions as well. However, submarines are also deployed on missions involving intelligence gathering, insertion of Special Forces, precision attacks and providing Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) support to surface forces in select areas. Taking into account the pros and cons of these submarines, it would be prudent for a country like India to maintain a judicious mix of nuclear and conventional boats to safeguard its maritime interests.
Indian Requirements
Taking a cue from the adage that “there are no permanent friends or permanent enemies but only permanent interests”, the requisite submarine force levels that India needs to create and maintain should be dictated by its national interests. The necessity to maintain credible minimum deterrence through a survivable second strike capability, perceived threats to our maritime interests, the extent of our areas of operations which encompass the waters from the Persian Gulf to east of Malacca Straits as well as the varied missions that need to be undertaken dictate that the Indian Navy would do well to maintain a
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force level of 3-4 SSBNs, 5-6 SSNs and 18 – 20 conventional submarines. Such a force level would ensure availability of requisite number of operational units to accomplish various tasks, undertake various long and short maintenance refits as per schedule as well as afford availability of a ‘surge’ in times of conflict. India is the only country in the top 10 submarine operating nations which relies heavily on imports for acquisition and maintenance of its submarine fleet. Whilst an effort to build conventional submarines at Mazagon Docks Limited (MDL) was made under a contract with Howaldtswerke-Deutsch Werft (HDW) of Germany in the 80’s, allegations of corruption brought the project to a standstill and allowed the gains to wither away. However, the nuclear propelled submarine construction program which started in the 70’s continued despite all controversies on the conventional front as it was shrouded in secrecy and the fact that no information was available in the public domain. In order to attain and maintain a regional major power status that India cherishes, it needs to do much more in developing and encouraging an indigenous defence industry to meet its growing needs. With this as a background let us take a look at the submarine holdings of India. Arihant class SSBN: The ‘Advanced Technology Vessel’ program to build a nuclear propelled submarine commenced during the late 70’s. After considerable
THYSSENKRUPP MARINE SYSTEMS
HDW Type 1500 submarine built for India
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SUBMARINE delays the first of the class named INS ARIHANT was finally launched in July 2009. This boat is a collaborative effort between Indian Navy’s Ship Building Center (SBC), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Larsen and Toubro (L&T), Tata Power SED, Walchandnagar Industries and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). The submarine is powered by a 83 mw PWR and will carry 12 K-15 missiles with a range of 750 km in addition to normal complement of torpedoes and cruise missiles. The boat has been undergoing extensive trials and its onboard nuclear reactor went critical on 10 Aug 2013. The submarine is expected to complete all harbor trials and proceed for sea trials sometime next year. Going by the time required for trials on the first of the class, the boat could become fully operational by end 2016. Work on the second of the class ARIDHAMAN is reported to be progressing and construction of a third boat is expected to follow. These boats form the third leg of the nuclear triad and provide the nation with an assured second strike capability. In order to ensure that patrol stations are manned 24x365, we need around 4 of this class. Since Arihant is more like a technology demonstrator with almost dated design, endurance and technology, there is a need to carry out improvements in all these fields in the follow-on submarines. Further, to increase the time on patrol there is an urgent need to induct missiles with ranges beyond 3500 km. Since an increase in range is likely to reduce the missile carrying capacity, it may be prudent to incorporate ‘Multiple Independent Reentry Vehicle (MIRV)’ capability to achieve desired strategic deterrence. Chakra class SSN: The Indian Navy (IN) had taken a Charlie class nuclear propelled submarine (SSN) on lease from the erstwhile USSR from 1988 to 1991. Following the launch of INS Arihant, an Akula class (SSN) named ‘Nerpa’ has been taken on lease yet again from Russia for a period of 10 years and inducted into the navy in Apr 2012. This boat has retained the name of INS CHAKRA and is armed with anti-ship and land attack cruise missiles, torpedoes as well as latest sensors. This submarine would be used primarily for training the crews of Arihant class as well as to gain knowledge and expertise in SSN
A HDW Class 214 submarine on its way to the Baltic Sea. 21 boats of this type of airindependent fuel cell submarine have been delivered or are under construction at present
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Submarines are best utilised in sea denial role due to the stealthy nature of their operations.Whilst nuclear submarines could be deployed for strategic deterrence and predominantly offensive tasks, conventional submarines can be utilised for offensive and defensive missions as well.
operations. Further, efforts are on to acquire another SSN on a 10 year lease on similar lines as that of Nerpa. There are reports that the Government is likely to approve a SSN construction program for 6 boats. In all likelihood, the existing arrangement between the IN, DRDO, L&T, Tata Power systems and Walchandnagar industries is likely to continue and is welcome. This will ensure building up of competence and expertise in various critical areas of construction and maintenance. In fact, a Public Private
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Partnership (PPP) model could be evolved out of this arrangement and necessary safeguards can be built in to protect interests of various stake holders. Shishumar class – These submarines are the result of India’s quest for building conventional submarines in the country under Transfer of Technology (ToT) model. Whilst DCNS of France, HDW of Germany, Nevesbu of Netherlands, Kockums of Sweden and Vickers of UK were all under consideration, the offer from HDW, Germany was selected for 4 Shishumar (Type 1500) class submarines. Under this contract, 2 boats were to be built in Germany and 2 were to be constructed at MDL from material kits. Subsequently, 2 more were to be contracted under the option clause for building in India but allegations of corruption put paid to these efforts. Even though all these submarines have been upgraded with modern sensors they are nearing the end of their average service life and need replacements in the near future. Sindhughosh class: Concurrent with the procurement of Shishumar class of submarines, India signed a contract with the erstwhile Soviet Union for supply of 6 Kilo class boats. Subsequently 4 more boats were ordered in batches of 2 each bringing the total to 10 submarines. All these submarines have been inducted commencing from mid‘80s and some of them have been upgraded with modern sensors as well as missile launch capabilities. The gutting of INS Sindhurakshak due to an explosion and a
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A Russian-built, Kilo-class diesel submarine
fire onboard INS Sindhuratna has made serious dents in the force capabilities. Since these submarines have been also been inducted parallel to Shishumar class, they are also nearing the end of their operational life and need to be replaced. Submarine building Programs: The failed efforts to build 2 more Shishumar class submarines at MDL due to allegations of corruption, coupled with the realisation of the lead time required to imbibe knowledge and gain experience for undertaking indigenous submarine construction, resulted in the preparation of a document on ‘National competence in submarine building and a 30 year submarine building plan’. This document, approved by the Government in 1999 and generally referred to as the 30 year submarine building plan, envisages construction of 24 submarines in 2 phases. The proposal outlines simultaneous construction of 6 submarines each under ‘Project 75’ and ‘Project 75-I’ in phase I, based on western and Russian technology respectively by the year 2012. Subsequently, on gaining experience from the Transfer of Technology (ToT) as well as utilising their concepts and best practices, an indigenous design was to be made for construction of 12 submarines in phase II during the period 2012 - 2030. Let us take a look at the progress made under this plan. Project 75 – Scorpene class – After much delayed decision making, the contract for building 6 submarines of ‘Scorpene’ class under Project 75 at MDL was signed with DCNS, France in Oct 2005. Under this contract, the first boat was to be delivered by 2012 and the remaining 5 at one year
”
India is the only country outside the P-5 to have operated and built a nuclear submarine.The long development period of the nuclear boat and the need to build on the experience gained, a rollon plan needs to be drawn up using the life cycle concept for the construction of SSBNs and SSNs.
intervals. The project is running way behind schedule but Rear Admiral R K Sharawat (Retd) the current MD of MDL feels confident of the first submarine being launched by Sep 2015 and commissioned in end 2016 with the remaining following at 9 month intervals. The delays have been attributed to protracted negotiations with DCNS on additional costs of manufacturer supplied materials arising out of inflation and related issues. The main armament for this submarine is a Heavy Weight Torpedo (HWT) to be chosen between ‘Sea Hake’ of
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Atlas Elektronik, Germany and ‘Black Shark’ of WASS, Italy. It is not yet clear whether any contract for these torpedoes has been signed or not, which may well have a bearing on the delivery schedule of the boats. Project 75 I – Though this project was originally scheduled to run simultaneously with project 75, it was kept on the back burner for want of funds. ‘Acceptance of Necessity (AON)’ was finally accorded in 2007 and renewed in 2012 but the RFP is yet to be issued for reasons best known to the authorities. ‘Scorpene’ of DCNS, France, ‘U-212’ of HDW, Germany, ‘Amur-1650’ of Rosoboronexport, Russia and ‘A-80’ of Navantia, Spain are the likely contenders for this project. Taking into account the depleting force levels, the Defence Acquisition Committee (DAC) has approved outright purchase of two boats from the OEM and construction of 3+1 in India at MDL and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) respectively.
Way ahead
The necessity of building and maintaining a credible submarine force indigenously needs no emphasis. To achieve such an objective, there is a need to think outside the box and implement decisions – even if they are unpalatable to some, in the interests of the country. A lot of resources have gone into setting up the requisite facilities at MDL, SBC and L&T for construction of nuclear and conventional submarines. Neither do we have abundant resources to squander nor a well developed military-industrial base to set up multiple manufacturing facilities. It is
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SUBMARINE worth mentioning here that the huge amounts of money spent on setting up the submarine building facilities at MDL for the construction of ‘Shishumar’ class was amortized over just 2 submarines rather than a series of boats, as the facilities were allowed to decay due idling. Further, new facilities have been set up for construction of ‘Scorpene’ submarines and we should not repeat the earlier mistakes. Taking into account the various delays dogging Project 75 I and the fact that it is already out of sync with the original plan, it may be worthwhile tweaking it to include outright purchase of the design and constructing a series of 12 submarines avantia is a Spanish state-owned shipbuilding enterprise, which is N increasingly pitching for projects in
AUGUST 2014
instead of just 6. In order to maximise the indigenisation efforts undertaken through Project 75, a list of existing technologies as well as equipment already available could be drawn up and factored into the design. This will ensure a concerted approach in developing equipment and technologies on a long term basis in adequate quantities. It would also enable greater participation from the private industry and better material support during the service life of the submarines. Further, MDL has in place a Share Holder Agreement (SHA) for setting up Joint Venture (JV) with L&T for construction of conventional submarines. It is strongly felt that
India as the country’s navy embarks on a path of aggressive programme of building naval platforms. In this interview, the company’s general manager India office, Jose Luis Montes, reveals some of its plans. Excerpts:
Q: How much of the technology is being transferred by you to the project? A: Let me explain you that Scorpene is a Consortium where each part, DCNS and Navantia have their own work-share. It´s not under our responsibility or duties to transfer French technology.Navantia will transfer only own know how, that is to say, our contribution to the program. Roughly speaking 50% of the construction design of the platform (till frame 72) has been developed by Navantia
Q: Is the September, 2016, delivery schedule firm or is it liable to change? A: DCNS and Navantia work with that date as target
Q: Navantia is one of the potential bidders for the P-75I project. The three of the subs are to be bought straight away from the manufacturers, while two is to be built by MDL and one by HSL. Are you ready to transfer the crucial Air Independent Propulsion technology to the Indian manufacturers? A: Originally, 2 subs were expected to be built abroad, 3 in MDL and one in HSL. But as far as we know, this distribution
may change when the RFP is released. Let me explain (to) you a short description of our AIP system: There is a significant effort in R & D behind our system, developed in partnership with other companies and important decisions were taken previously to start development in order to get a system with better performances than others existing in the market, as required by the Spanish Navy. The first decision made was to use Fuel Cell technology, recognised as a technology extremely compatible with submarine requirements (noise, weight, etc.). The second decision was to incorporate a quite promising technology: fuel reforming. This technology allows producing hydrogen from almost any hydrocarbon (fuel). Obviously, the energy required to do so is dependent on the fuel selection. Therefore, the fuel selection was extremely critical. After detailed analysis, the trade-off was done between Methanol and Bioethanol. Bioethanol was finally selected.
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construction of hulls at L&T followed by outfitting of equipment at MDL would reduce build times, ensure establishment of maintenance facilities as well as vendor base to cater for life cycle support. India is the only country outside the P-5 to have operated and built a nuclear submarine. The long development period of the nuclear boat and the need to build on the experience gained, a roll-on plan needs to be drawn up using the life cycle concept for the construction of SSBNs and SSNs. Such a plan would address issues like refits and mid-life upgrades including reactor fuel changes so as to maintain the requisite number of operational boats. The system is composed by the AIP Plant (Fuel Processor System, Fuel Cell Power Module, PowerConditioning System and few services required by pieces ofequipment) and the rest of auxiliaries (CO2 Disposal System, LOX Tank, Cooling System, AIP Control System, Converter etc.). The Fuel Cell is fed by the Reforming Gas (60-75% ofhydrogen) and oxygen to produce DC power and water. The DC power requires to be conditioned to be connected to the submarine DC network. This conditioning is performed bymeans of the Power Conditioning System. Combustion of bioethanol is required during the reforming process. The CO2 and the water generated is treated by the CO2 Disposal System that expels the gases out of the submarine without affecting the submarine signatures. An AIP control system makes all these subsystems work together. Getting back to your question, we know the rules of the game and accordingly we are ready to meet the requirements of the RFP, including transference of technology.
Q: What is the status of Navantia’s LPD project for the Indian Navy? A: As you may be aware we are tendering to the LPD program in partnership with L&T. The design for the Indian Navy is based on our LPDs Juan Carlos I, Canberra and Adelaide, but implementing all modifications necessary to meet the IN RFP requirement. The result of the work developed during the RFP stage (completed on 7 July) is a very well optimised vessel that fits perfectly the expectations of the Navy. The program is currently in the stage of analysis of technical bids by the Indian Navy.
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DRDO's technologies have placed India among world’s elite groups of:
Driving Self Reliance for
Strength, Security and Peace
4 nations to have multilevel Strategic Deterrence capabilities 5 nations to have its own Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)program
6 nations to have developed a Nuclear-Powered Submarine 7 nations to have developed own Main Battle Tank and 4th plus generation Combat Aircraft
Making India strong and self-reliant with Technology and Innovation, equipping India’s Armed Forces with state-of-the-art weapons systems, platforms, equipment, related materials & processes and technology solutions and have helped in taking the level of indigenisation from 30% to 55%. On the path of self reliance, DRDO has taken along over 1000 industries and large number of academic / research institutes.
Wi t h ` 1 , 6 0 , 0 0 0 c r o r e w o r t h o f products inducted or approved for induction in Indian Armed Forces, many of them having huge export potential, DRDO continues its march on path of excellence in developing cutting edge defence technologies.
Defence R&D Organisation Ministry of Defence, Govt. of India www.drdo.gov.in, http://rac.gov.in Issued by Directorate of Public Interface
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AERIAL WEAPONS:
TIME TO ACT
AIRBORNE WEAPONS
The real growth in the technologies of aerial weapons came with theVietnam War where the American forces experimented various bombs and missiles and their various modes of delivery be it heat-seeking or laser designation
ANIL CHOPRA
KEY POINTS
In the post-Cold War era, focus shifted
from nuclear Armageddon, to improving conventional weaponry. Guided munitions began with ‘within visual range’ shooting to ‘beyond visual range’ stand-off firings. Directed Energy Weapons like powerful lasers or particle beams will eventually replace these conventional weapons.
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he then Army Chief, General VK Singh, now Union Minister of State, in his letter to the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had highlighted the acute shortage of weapons with Indian Army which had kicked up a storm. In fact it echoed the state of the entire Armed Forces. In spite reformation, the Defence Procurement Procedures (DPP) still does not allow quick procurements. Each weapon has a finite shelf life and also obsolescence sets in quickly. The weapon platform is no good without weapons to fire. Purchase of
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weapons must form part of any major defence procurement, and replacements need early planning. With the air power becoming dominant in the 21st century there is a need for closer look at aerial weapons. Ancient Indian manuscripts write about Vimana the Aerospace craft and make references to gods who fought battles in the sky using air-vehicles equipped with deadly weapons. Indra’s Dart used a circular reflector that produced a ‘shaft of light’ which, when focused on any target, immediately consumed it, somewhat akin to modern day
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saw massive increase in armament loads and capabilities. Aircraft thus effectively replaced the artillery as the preferred long range weapon of choice. The ‘Battle of Britain’, ‘Pearl harbour’ and the destruction of Germany industrial might were classical aerial victories and turned the tide of the war. Terms ‘Command of the Air’ and ‘Strategy of Deterrence’ could now be coined. Soon the navalforceswerealsoheavilydependentonair power. Air-dropped torpedoes sank many enemy ships. Air-to-Air Combat and Air-toSurface/Sub-surface attack evolved and great improvement took place in aiming, guidance and precision technologies. Also the weapon lethality increased exponentially. Finally an air dropped weapon, the atomic bomb, brought end to the war. From mere novelty, Air Power had come of age.
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weaponry, especially anti-tank and antipersonnel. Surface-to-air weapons became mobile, had reduced reaction time and much larger lethal ranges. Precision weapons with sub-metre accuracies greatly reduced the tonnage to be dropped to achieve effect-based-results. Cruise missiles, and later the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) helped fight a network controlled distant war. Wars in Falklands, Kosovo and Iraq were won mostly from the air. Critical Mirage-2000 Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) strikes in Kargil turned the tide of the war in 1999. Iraq war, for the first time brought images of precision weapons on ordinary citizen’s TV screens. Successful aerial wars brought a seachange in the minds of political and military leadership.
ASRAAM-2 Missile
Rafale aircraft equipped with AASM & Mica missiles
laser weapons. Austrians reportedly were the first to use airborne balloons for limited bombing in 1849, but actual use of aerial weapons began when in 1911 Italo-Turkish War, when Italian aircraft threw overboard small free-fall bombs without any aiming sights. Air combat initially began with pilots firing hand-held pistols at each other. Shooting a machine gun without hitting the propeller was the big challenge that was overcome in 1915 by Germans using a synchroniser and thus starting the dog-fight era. The period between the two great wars
Aircraft and air-armament industry really flourished during the cold war and beyond. Armies and navies started investing heavily in integral air-power. The surface-to-surface ballistic missiles started complimenting the high altitude bomber; and the surface-to-air missiles, supporting the air-superiority fighter. In 1950s the airto-air missiles evolved and started pushing the air battle Beyond Visual Range (BVR). Vietnam was the first testing campaign. The advent of helicopter and its being armed brought another dimension to air
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Air-to-Air Weapons
Air-to-Air Missiles with up to 30 km range, earlier called the ‘Dog-fight’ or close-combat missiles, are now referred as ‘Within Visual Range’ (WVR). WVRs are mostly heatseeking, while BVR are mostly radar controlled. Some long range missiles also use inertial guidance. Mid 1950s, Americans introduced their AIM series Sidewinder missiles and Soviets, the ‘K’series K-13. BVRs were introduced in mid 1960s. Raytheon is one of the biggest missile producers and its AIM-9L (1977) was the
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AIRBORNE WEAPONS
first all aspect WVR missile that could sense aircraft heat from front quarters. Development of a proximity sensing fuse that would explode the warhead even when passing close to the target was a big achievement. The missile seeker of the more modern MBDA AIM-120 ASRAAM can distinguish the target heat from the counter measure flares. Helmet mounted sights also help missile acquire the target. Israeli Rafael Advanced Defense Systems’ Python-5 is an electro-optical missile which does not require a heat source and so is more effective against low heat source aircraft like propeller driven UAVs among others. BVR missiles today have ranges beyond 200 km. India began with the first generation K-13 which came with the MiG-21and was later replaced by Molniya R-60. Matra Magic R 550 and Super R 530D came with Mirage 2000. IAF got the fourth generation Vympel R-73, R-27 and fifth generation R-77 RVVAE missiles along with MiG-21 Upgrade ‘Bison’ and SU-30 MKI. The French MBDA MICA, dual head (IR & EM),
is part of the Mirage-2000 upgrade project and of the Rafale weapon package. 400 are being bought. Rafale can carry up to six MICA missiles. The $1.9 billion Mirage 2000 upgrade will bring 384 British MBDA AIM-132 ASRAAM dog-fight missiles, which have also been selected for Jaguar over wing station. US$ 888 million upgrade of all 67 remaining MiG-29 allows it to carry R-77 missile. Indian Navy will ultimately have 45 MiG-29s. Rafael Advanced Systems Python-5 of Israel has been selected as the secondary close combat heat seeking missile for the LCA Tejas. American AIM-9X Sidewinder, Israeli Python 5, Chinese PL12, India’s Astra (110 km), and American AIM-120 AMRAAM (180 km) are the state of art other new missiles.
Air-to-Surface Weapons
Precision of delivery can be considered the single most important development for surface attack. It is not only more economical to destroy the target, but also reduces unwanted collateral damage. A SU-
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30 MKI can deliver more weapon load on target than a squadron of old MiG-21s with free-fall ‘Dumb’ bombs. Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) or the ‘Smart’ bombs or missiles are directed to the target through wire, radio, radar, optical or laser control. Germans were the first to develop steerable munitions using radio or wire guidance. Electro optical systems have a TV camera for guidance. Laser guided bombs or missiles home on to the target that has been illuminated by a laser beam from the air or ground. PGMs made debut in Vietnam in early 1970s. The most classical PGM employment was in Operation Desert Storm in Iraq. IAF’s Mirage-2000 Laser-bomb attacks over 15,000 feet high Tiger-hill during Kargil war of 1999 was a game changer for the war. IAF’s Mirage 2000, MiG-27 and Jaguar carry the Israeli RAFAEL ‘LITENING’ targeting Pod that combines multiple sensors at low cost. It has FLIR, a TV camera, and laser designator. The American Paveway series are the most famous laser bombs, and Lockheed Martin
USMC
US marines from the 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion launch a Raytheon Stinger missile during training in July 2009
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Akash Surface to Air Missile System successfully flight tested at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur
and Raytheon are the main laser bomb manufacturers. Infra-Red (IR) guidance weapons work well where the target stands out due heat contrast. Raytheon Maverick and Israeli Elbit Opher are IR Drop-andforget bombs. Lockheed Martin Hellfire II anti-tank missile is guided by the millimetre-wave radar aboard Boeing AH64D Apache Longbow. India’s acquisition of 22 Apache AH-64Ds would include over 1,350 Hellfire missiles and 245 Raytheon Stinger missiles, 12 Lockheed/Northrop Grumman APG-78 fire control radars and 23 Lockheed modernised target acquisition designation sight/pilot night vision sensors. Indian Navy has moved ahead from the BAE Sea Harriers to the MiG 29K and awaits the LCA Naval variant. The Boeing P-8I Neptune carries the AGM-84L Harpoon Block II missiles and Mk 54 lightweight Torpedoes. Sea Harriers are currently armed with Rafael Derby BVR missile. MiG 29 K can carry Kh-31 A and Kh-35 antishipping missiles and a host of air-to-air missiles including Astra, Rafael Python 5
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A SU-30 MKI can deliver more weapon load on target than a squadron of old MiG-21s with free-fall ‘Dumb’ bombs. Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) or the ‘Smart’ bombs or missiles are directed to the target through wire, radio, radar, optical or laser control.
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and futuristic Novator K-100. This gives more options for acquisition. To circumvent poor visibility, satelliteguided (GPS) weapons such as Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and Joint StandOff Weapon (JSOW) were developed by Boeing along with the US Air Force (USAF). The newer variants are hybrid laser-GPS combination. Raytheon has developed the enhanced Paveway family which can be deployed both against moving and stationary targets. The Russian KAB series already flying on Bison, MiG-27 and SU-30 are TV/laser guided bombs of up to 1500 kg. The French Sagem AASM is a European version of JDAM with 50 km stand-off firing range and is used on Dassault Rafale. Raytheon’s AGM154, Rafael’s SPICE, Lockheed’s AGM-158, Boeing’s SLAM-ER, MBDA’s Storm Shadow and Taurus, are the other latest weapons. The market for PGMs is close to US$ 3.0 billion a year. With focus shifting to AsiaPacific, analyst Peter Donaldson sees big markets in Australia and India. Chinese currently are dependent on the Russians but
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AIRBORNE WEAPONS SU 30MKI 1 aircraft equipped with BrahMos missile
are aggressively trying to develop their own. LT-2 is a Chinese laser guidance kit for a 500 kg bomb also supplied to Pakistan and LT-3 is a JDAM like GPS-cum-Laser guidance kit. They are also working on Glide bombs. India’s DRDO lab ADE is working on the 1000 lb ‘Sudarshan’ LGB with 9 km range. DRDO’s 50 km glide bomb may be ready in the near future says DRDO Chief Avinash Chandra. IAF currently holds Rafael Advanced Defence Systems ‘Spice’ and Israel aerospace Industries (IAI) Griffen LGBs. Air to surface missiles have propulsion and score over bombs in longer stand-off ranges and speed of impact, but often have lighter warhead. The guidance remains typically laser or IR. Air launched Tomahawk cruise missile, the anti-ship or land-attack Harpoon missiles are great examples. India had received MBDA’s AS30 missiles in mid 1970s and operated BAe Sea Eagle anti-shipping missile on IAF and Indian navy aircraft. IAF acquired 24 harpoon Block II missiles for its maritime strike Jaguars in December 2010 in a US$ 200 million deal. Rafale has options of the modular Hammer air-to-surface PGM system and AM-39 Exocet sea-skimming missile. Russian air-to-surface missiles carried on SU-30 MKI include Kh-59 ME TV guided standoff missile with 115 km ranges, Kh-59MK active radar homing anti-
ship missile (285 km), Kh-31 anti-radar missile (30 km) and Kh-29 laser guided missile (30 km). India’s DRDO is developing ‘Nag’ anti-tank missile. Its air-launched Indo-Russian cruise missile BrahMos has already been tested from a SU-30 MKI. Once the AESA Radar comes with Su-30 MKI upgrade, it will be a potent combination. China has many, mostly reverse engineered, missile programs and supports Pakistan’s Babur missile program.
Air-Defence Weapons
Anti-aircraft gun was the main air defence weapon till the Surface to Air Guided Weapons (SAGW) was developed. Guns had serious limitations in range and accuracy. Germans were the first to develop a radio controlled Surface to Air Missile (SAM) during WW II. US Nike Ajax was the first operational SAM. Soviet SAMs had very high success rate in Vietnam and forced Americans to introduce a new mission called ‘Suppression of Enemy Air Defences’ SEAD. IAF got its initial SAMs SA-2, SAM-3 and OSA-AK (SAM-8) variants from the Russians. It also acquired the man-portable shoulder-fired Igla missile. Counterparts in Pakistan had Crotale and Stinger missile systems. The S-125 Pechora, OSA-AK (SAM 8) systems are still in service with IAF and these will
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get replaced with indigenous DRDO,25 km range, Akash medium range surface-to-air missile system, 8 squadrons of which have been ordered so far. IAF has also ordered 18 Israeli Spyder SAM units with 750 Python and Derby missiles each. LRSAM based on Barak 8 design is a joint development project between India and Israel Aircraft Industries. It will have range up to 70 km.
Future Weapons
Recent Palestinian attacks from Gaza were responded by Israeli with the Iron Dome mobile, all-weather air defence system. Not a single enemy rocket could penetrate. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, it is designed to intercept shortrange rockets and artillery shells at ranges from 4 to 70 kilometres. Later variants will go up to 250 kilometres. USA is investing nearly 50 percent in joint development through Boeing. India’s DRDO has also been working with Israel to develop an indigenous similar system. India is also looking for possibly integrating the MBDA Brimstone ground attack missile and the long-range Meteor air-to-air missile on the Su-30s. DRDO is also developing the 15 km range ‘Maitri’ quick-reaction SAM with a near 100 percent kill probability with MBDA. In August 2008, a $2.8 billion deal was
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India is also looking for possibly integrating the MBDA Brimstone ground attack missile and the long-range Meteor air-toair missile on the Su-30s. DRDO is also developing the 15 km range ‘Maitri’ quick-reaction SAM with a near 100 percent kill probability with MBDA. MBDA Meteor (Over 200 km) will be integrated on French Rafale by 2018.
IRON DOME missile which was extensively used by Israel recently
signed with Israel to develop an advanced version of SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) mobile air defense missiles. DRDO is also developing the nuclear capable Nirbhay cruise missile. MBDA Meteor (Over 200 km) will be integrated on French Rafale by 2018. Novator K-100 is a Russian air-to-air missile designed as an AWACS killer with a range up to 200 km. Since 2004 India and Russia has evolved a deal to produce it for IAF’s SU-30 MKI fighters. Another version with range up to 400 km is being mentioned. Around 40 missiles are reportedly planned. IndoRussian FGFA will have six internal and six weapon hard points on wings, and will predominantly be armed with DRDO’s Astra BVR missile and BrahMos cruise missiles. Various Russian BVR missiles could also be used. In the coming years, the development of Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) will give
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much higher magnitude of precision and cross the realm of science fiction. Very narrow beams of Lasers, microwave radiation, particle beams would destroy or damage guidance systems or trigger warheads. These could simultaneously attack many targets. USA, Russia are doing most of the research work and Chinese have of late invested heavily too. With most countries moving towards network centric operations, communication nodes could be targets through directed energy. The Advanced Tactical Laser (ATL) program is a US military program to mount a high energy laser weapon on an aircraft, initially the AC-130 gunship. This near 100 kilowatt system with 7,000 kg weight will have tactical range of 20 kilometres. Advanced versions of AIM-9X and Vympel R-73, called Quick Manoeuvre Air-to-Air Missile with much higher agility are under development. Hyper-Velocity Air-to-Air missile will be
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multi-stage kinetic energy weapon with speeds in excess of Mach 5. DARPA is developing a Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) to improve the survivability. Lockheed Martin has received the order for initial 90 in spite protests from Raytheon who claims to have a better and cheaper version. High-power thermo baric missiles are basically Fuel Air Explosive (FAE) that creates intense high temperatures. The KAB 500 OD bomb with the IAF is a FAE bomb. Russians have versions up to 1500 kg with lethal zone of 500 metres. Intensive weapon research is going on. India is part of the most threatened regions of the world and needs to watch weapon developments closely. It has to catch up on backlog of weapon purchases and get stocking levels for a possible twofront war. With very few players in the market, technologies are closely guarded. No one parts with them. DRDO has to get its act right. Beg, borrow, steal, or just convert the theoretical research into formidable deliverable end products if India is to achieve its aspirations of a global player. Government needs to hold the bull by the horns, allot adequate funds and position dynamic result-oriented professional mangers.
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AND SENSORS NAVAL COMMUNICATION NAVAL COMMUNICATION
At sea in war, a naval ship targets the enemy vessels by listening to them through communication channels by intercepting their messages through wireless radios or seeing them through radars and sensing them through sonars.
S KULSHRESTHA
KEY POINTS
The communication systems follow a ‘small is beautiful’ formula by which the shorter the wavelength the greater is the distance it travels. The mainstay for the Indian Navy in terms of comm equipments is Bharat Electronics. Most of the sonars and the radars used by the Indian Navy are those acquired from offshore makers like Raytheon, Thales etc.
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warship at sea functions like a huge sea creature in respect of a majority of its functions. For example, there is a need for a ship to see, listen, and communicate; it uses Radars, Sonars and Communication equipment for these tasks. The overall goal of the warship is to identify and eliminate the threats arising at sea, thus all the equipment on board a warship is required to function in unison to achieve this aim. Emphasis in this article would be on Communication equipment, discussion on technological aspects of Radars and Sonars would be limited to essentials only.
Communications
The first official message from a ship to a shore station, 20 miles away, was sent in
1899, the first use of radiotelephone between ships was reported in 1916. However, until the installation of superheterodyne receivers on board ships in 1931, radio communication was considered unreliable. Radio teletypewriter transmissions between ships were carried out successfully in 1944, and the first FAX (radio-photo) transmission was that of the surrender document that ended WW II! Navies use visual, sound, and electrical means for communications. Telecommunication includes in its ambit transmission, emission, signals, images, sounds, and intelligence information by visual, oral, wire, radio, or other electronic systems.
Radiotelephone
Ships use radiotelephony because of its ease of operation, directness, and convenience. In the navy, it is used for communication between ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore, shoreto-ship, air-to-ship, ship-to-air, air-toground, and ground-to-air. The most important use of radiotelephone is in shortrange tactical communication. Radio communication has become a specialised field of electronics. Naval ships today have the ability to utilise ship-toshore, ship-to-ship, and ship-to-air, communication circuits. Naval communication systems vary in complexity depending upon their role, compatibility, and flexibility. Due to scarcity of space on board a ship, the communication equipment is spread across the ship’s compartments; however, it is ensured that the sets are capable of operating separately as well as concurrently. Complex interconnections
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provide the ability of selectively switching different configurations. Radiofrequency bands commonly used for naval communication include, very high frequency and above, high frequencies, medium frequency, low frequency, very low frequency, and extremely low-frequency. Very High Frequency and above (30 MHZ - 300 MHZ) are only used for line of sight communication as ground range is very less. High Frequency, HF (3 MHZ - 30 MHZ), has been used by the navy since WW I. HF is used for point-to-point, ship to shore, ground to air and fleet broadcast (one way only). Medium Frequency, MF ( 300 KHZ - 3 MHZ), bands in the upper and lower portions of MF are used by the Navy for ground wave transmission, since the commercial band generally extends from 535 to 1605 kilohertz. Low Frequency, LF (30 KHZ - 300 KHZ), band has only a very small part of the radio-frequency spectrum. Lowfrequency transmitting installations have large physical size and high construction and maintenance costs. However, Lowfrequency waves are not so seriously affected during periods of ionospheric disturbance when communications at the high frequencies are disrupted. This makes LF useful in the northern latitudes. Very Low Frequency, VLF (3 KHZ - 30 KHZ) provides a highly reliable path for communications over and under all oceans and seas of the world. Currently all naval VLF transmitters are used for fleet communications or navigation. VLF transmission is normally a one-way transmission, a broadcast, where no reply is required. A VLF broadcast of standard time and frequency signals provides precision
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INS Mumbai is the third of the Indian Navy’s Delhi class guided missile destroyers built by Mazagon Docks
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY IMAGE
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NAVAL COMMUNICATION for the operation of single-sideband transmissions, synchronous cryptographic devices, and decoding devices. It is used as a backup to shortwave communications black out by nuclear activity, as well as in communications to satellites. Extremely Low Frequency, ELF (Up to 300 HZ), communications are used by the US Navy to send short “phonetic letter spelled out” (PLSO) messages (one way communication) from operating authorities to submarines operating at normal mission speeds and depths. ELF penetrates ocean depths to several hundred feet with little signal loss.
As on land and air, command and control capabilities are via data fusion, enhancing the effectiveness of hitherto unconnected sensors
The US Navy has already begun the deployment of wireless link interface technology on board 97 of its ships for maritime interception operations. The wireless system will allow communication directly with boarding teams several miles away. Interdiction units will be able to transmit biometric data, scanned documents, digital photos, and emails, back to the ship using the data link. US navy has successfully tested microwavebased wireless wide-area network (WWAN) between ships to enable incorporation of Long-Term Evolution (LTE) standard, generally referred to as 4G LTE. It is a standard for high-speed communications among mobile devices, and transmits data at around 100 megabits/sec, fast enough to handle images and videos as well as voice and text. The WWAN would normally augment the existing satellite-based communications. The LTE network would let sailors on ships receive real-time video streaming from air nodes mounted on helicopters, which in turn would permit officers to make accurate decisions. Oceus Networks is the likely provider of the systems. DCNS has developed SySmart, a commercial wireless communications and tracking system. It enables exchange of video, voice, and data wirelessly from anywhere on board a ship using handheld devices. Internet linked video and infrared cameras and other shipboard sensors can be accessed by the sailors. The system is built around existing Ethernet systems and other proprietary wireless networks. It has been successfully tested on French naval ships and is to be incorporated in the next generation of French submarines in 2017. Rohde & Schwarz in Europe was
commissioned to design and build a navywide communications network encompassing shore stations, corvettes, patrol boats, landing crafts of many sizes and with diverse applications, coastal mine hunters, and maritime patrol aircraft (MPA). Tailored voice and data communications solutions have been defined for shipboard internal communications and external line-of-sight (LOS) and beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) radio communications. A navy-wide military message handling system (MMHS) covers both strategic and tactical communications. Proprietary applications
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supplement the STANAG protocols to include chat and e-mail functionality. In addition, HF and VHF/UHF solutions for IP-based services have been incorporated. Different subsystems for capabilities such as telephone calls, announcements, alarms, and internal tactical communications on the ship, message handling, and radio equipment have been integrated into an overall system. From a single workstation, it would be possible, to take part in the ship’s internal communications as well as in external voice & data communications and to manage & control applications and devices. The French Navy has also
DCNS
Wireless Link Interface Communications
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selected Rohde & Schwarz to provide R&S®M3SR radio communications systems for their newest nuclear submarines. The Spanish Navy also decided to equip their latest tactical submarines with Rohde & Schwarz radio communications systems. It also provides worldwide communications systems for different kinds of aircraft carriers. The R&S®M3SR Series4400 is used on the newest and biggest ‘aircraft carrier generation’ that the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy operates. Vitavox have been providing the world’s largest navies with military communications equipment since 1933. The audio equipment provided by Vitavox can be used in a variety of applications, both above and below deck as well as above and below surface.
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Port and coastal surveillance radars are often teamed with optronic sensors
Communication Systems-Indian Navy
The Indian Navy is using indigenous systems extensively on its warships, some note- worthy systems already on board warships and scheduled for fitment on ships under production are manufactured by BEL, they are: ATM Based Integrated Shipboard Data Network (AISDN), it is a multiservices shipboard network designed to converge all voice traffic, real time video and traditional data communications onto a single broadband infrastructure. It is a flexible, triple redundant, modular and reliable network supporting multiple services for naval ships. It integrates various equipment and systems on board namely EW Systems, Radars, Sonars, CAIO (Computer Aided Information Organization), Fire Control Systems, and a number of other equipment for Ship’s Household Data (SHHD). It integrates all sensors, weapons, and communication services onto one single broadband network. It provides integrated and simultaneous transmission of voice, video and data. It has high system capacity and flexibility and uses fiber optic cable as physical medium. Composite Communication System (CCS) Mk III is a new generation ATM based communication system that provides ship-to-ship, ship to shore and ship to air communication. It is designed as a voice and data integrated network providing connectivity between radio equipment and remote user onboard for accessing and
monitoring and control of radio equipment. The system is highly flexible and can be configured for all classes of ships. CCS Mk III consists of Control & Monitoring Subsystems (CMS), which controls and monitors the entire network and enables operation of radios from remote positions with optimum usage of facilities. Its subsystems are:MF Subsystem, it has telegraphy communication and monitors maritime distress frequency. HF Subsystem, it has long-range communication on voice, telegraphy & teletype (ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship) and receives broadcast transmissions. VHF/UHF Subsystem, Medium range communication on voice, telegraphy & teletype (ship-to-shore and ship-to-air). RATT Subsystem, it facilitates teleprinter & telegraphic communication from a ship via radio or land / shoreline. Versatile Communication System (VCS) Mk III is a versatile system designed
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to provide internal communication facilities and display of status of various equipment and systems onboard naval ships. The system is highly flexible and reconfigurable and can be configured for all classes of ships. It provides, integrated data (Status and Control) and Voice communication from a single position on IVCS, it uses VOIP technology for Voice & Data communication, it interfaces with the ATM based integrated data network (AISDN) onboard the ship; it reduces wiring and interconnections in the system.
Sonar and Radars
The other important sensors on a warship for underwater and above water threat detection are the Sonar and the Radar. It is not intended to discuss the general technical details of such systems. However, few of the Sonars and Radars frequently in news are being briefly described below. Thales Underwater Systems has developed and produced Sonar 2087. It has
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NAVAL COMMUNICATION Atlas Elektronik will supply Active Towed Array Sonar, ATAS to the Indian Navy, which will equip the Delhi and Talwar class ships. ATAS would be subsequently manufactured in India under cooperation with BEL. EdgeTech, has delivered 12 advanced side scan sonar systems (mine warfare) for the Indian Navy. Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar (EASR) is a development program for replacement for the SPS-48 and SPS-49 air surveillance radars currently on board US Navy’s amphibious ships and aircraft carriers by the 2020. Northrop Grumman has been awarded an 18month contract for the study of the EASR requirement. The new radar system will utilize technologies from the AN/TPS-80 Ground /Air Task-Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) program. Empar (European Multifunction Phased Array Radar) is a G-band, multifunction, active phased array radar being developed by Selex for the Italian Navy and French Navy. Its rotating antenna at 60 rpm provides continuous surveillance, tracking, and weapons fire control. The Empar radar system will be integrated on the Horizon frigates ordered by Italy and France and the Italian Navy’s Conte di Cavour. Raytheon’s AN/SPY-5 is an X-band multi-tracking, target-illuminating system for surface combatants that can simultaneously search, detect, and precisely track multiple surface and air threats. The SPY-5 is an open architecture, phased-array radar system, providing an advanced selfdefence solution for small and large surface ships operating in the littorals and other maritime environments. A single radar system consists of three 120-degree beam faces providing full 360-degree azimuth coverage. The mission capabilities include low-altitude horizon search; focused volume search; surface search; missile and surface gunfire control; simultaneous threat illumination; and missile midcourse guidance and terminal homing. It is compatible with all digital combat management systems, and the radar’s range, accuracy and beam agility enable the full performance of the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM). SPY-5’s size, weight and overall self-defence capabilities make it equally well suited for large-deck aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships as well as corvettes.
INS Sahyadri depart Fleet Base East on completion of the Royal Australian Navy’s International Fleet Review 2013
been designed to be a variable depth, towed active and passive Sonar system that performs in conjunction with Sonar 2050 bow-mounted active sonar on UK’s Type 23 frigates. Digital technology in signal processing and COTS hardware has been used extensively. It is claimed that S2087 will be suitable for both, littoral environments and Deep Ocean.
Raytheon has developed the AN/SQQ-
90 tactical sonar suite for the US Navy’s DDG 1000-class multi-mission destroyer. The AN/SQQ-90 comprises of the AN/SQS-61 hull-mounted high-frequency sonar, AN/SQS-60 hull-mounted midfrequency sonar, and the AN/SQR-20 multi-function towed array sonar and handling system.
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Indigenous Sonars and Radars with Indian Navy
Indigenous Sonars and Radars held by the Indian Navy are manufactured by BEL. Two important Sonars manufactured by BEL are the Advanced Active cum Passive Integrated Sonar System (HUMSA NG) and the Integrated Submarine Sonar (USHUS). -HUMSA-NG is an advanced Active cum Passive integrated sonar system to be fitted on a wide variety of Indian Navy platforms such as the Project 17, Project 15A and Project 28 class ships. HUMSA-NG is an advanced version of the existing HUMSA sonar presently fitted on P16, P15, Ranjit and Talwar Class of ships. The HUMSA (NG) is designed for enhancing the system performance, reliability, and maintainability. It is capable of detecting, localising, classifying and tracking subsurface targets in both active and passive modes. The system provides simultaneous long-range detection in active and passive modes. The sonar is capable of localisation and automatic tracking of up to eight targets in both active and passive modes. The sonar integrates the operation of the UWT and XBT systems. The system is integrated with FCS systems such as IAC MOD ‘C and CAIO for exchange of relevant information. Integrated Submarine Sonar (USHUS) is used to detect, localise and classify underwater submerged and surface targets through passive listening, interception of signals and active transmissions of acoustics signals. It has both analog and digital external system interface. It is modular and rugged in design with upgradeable performance features. Its passive sonar has preformed beams in azimuth and in three vertical directions using ASICS. It can auto track six targets. Its active sonar has CW and LFM modes of transmission with three selective pulse widths, high source level, low frequency planar transducer array & complex demodulation, replica correlation for Doppler and range estimation. Its intercept sonar can provide early warning long range target detection, all round coverage in three bands, FFT, and Spectral processing. The underwater communication system has multiple mode acoustic communication in dual frequency to meet NATO and other requirements, voice, telegraph, data, and message modes of operation. Its obstacle avoidance sonar is a high frequency short
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A US Navy Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk, NG 710 166520 of HSM-71 “Raptors” dips the sonar over the Pacific Ocean
Integrated Submarine Sonar (USHUS) is used to detect, localise and classify underwater submerged and surface targets through passive listening, interception of signals and active transmissions of acoustics signals. It has both analog and digital external system interface. It is modular and rugged in design with upgradeable performance features.
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range sonar with rectangular transducer array and its transmission covers three sectors of 30° each. Some of the indigenous Radars manufactured by BEL, India are: L-Band Surveillance Radar, RAWL02 Mk-III, is long-range L band surveillance radar for detection of air and surface targets. It has a roll and pitch stabilised antenna platform, Synthesiser controlled transmitter with TWT amplifier, state of art video extractor track management system based on COTs technology, low noise receiver combined with split pulse and matched dynamic range compression, ECCM capability and a range of 270 Km. 3D Surveillance Radar, REVATHI, is a state-of-the-art, S-band, Track-While-Scan (TWS) radar designed to effectively play the role of a medium range surveillance radar mounted on a stabilised platform for detection of air and surface targets. It has ECCM features, integrated IFF Mk XI , stabilisation against roll & pitch, and remote transmission of data of tracks & plots over LAN for interface with external systems.
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NAVAL COMMUNICATION INS Delhi Class Destroyer during the recent ‘Defence of Gujarat Exercise’
Active & Passive Radar for Navigation & Attack (APARNA), is designed to detect surface targets, furnish target data to fire control computer for missile firing at these targets in the autonomous mode from the ship. The radar system is provided with two transmitter–receiver channels i.e. the first or main channel and the second or navigational channel. The two channels differ in transmitter peak power, pulse width etc.
Consolidated Antennas and Sensors
Communication technology developments to provide ever-increasing requirements of multiple bands and bandwidths, foresee a need for large rotating antennas. These pose several problems on board warships like space availability, electromagnetic interference and increase in ships radar signature. The trend is tilting towards development of single unit consolidating antennas and sensors. Thales Netherlands
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The trend is tilting towards development of single unit consolidating antennas and sensors.Thales Netherlands is developing its integrated sensor and communications suite, which will house radio and data-link communication systems, radar and electrooptical subsystems and IFF in a single unit.
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is developing its integrated sensor and communications suite, which will house radio and data-link communication systems, radar and electro-optical subsystems and IFF in a single unit. The US Navy has awarded 18 contracts to develop integration and management technology for radio frequency radar and communications functions. The objective of the advanced multifunction radio frequency concept is the integration of radar, electronic warfare and communications into a common set of apparatus with signal and data processing, signal generation and display hardware. Thus from the above it can be appreciated that the field of sensors for utilisation on a warship is an ever expanding one, with new features and capabilities adapted from the commercial world being added practically every hour. To say the least the features and capabilities of various warship sensors by end of this decade are going to be phenomenal.
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TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENTS CHANG I COUNTER INSURGENCY
Increasingly the counter-insurgency operations are throwing up new tactical and strategic challenges for the commanders and the political leadership as they seek to de-centralise tactical decisions to ground commanders and provide the forces technology rich, stand-off weaponry.
An Indian Border Security Force soldier stands guard along the India-Pakistan border at Wagah
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G ING COIN STRATEGIES AND TACTICS AUGUST 2014
PRAVASH KUMAR MISHRA
KEY POINTS
For the first time in India, drones were used to monitor rioters during the endJuly violence in Saharanpur in UP. Cornershot rifles that can keep the shooters hidden from their quarries in close combat situations are being used by COIN forces. Survivability being a key issue for the COIN forces, their body armours are being those that balance protection and comfort.
AFP
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t present due to various technical developments in COIN, particularly in weapons, ammunitions, field uniform, air cover, surveillance/technical/ communication equipments, anti-ballistic, anti-mine and anti-blast all terrain vehicles, the strategies and tactics in counter insurgency operations in Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Assam and all Maoist affected states require a change. The impact of such developments also depends upon the new tactics adopted by various militant groups (own and foreign mercenaries) operating in India including the Maoists. The Maoist insurgency had spread to 20 of the 28 states. As of now, 182 districts are disturbed by Maoists, 83 partially and 35 badly. The whole of J&K and the entire north-east keep Army and paramilitary forces occupied in countering various Indian and foreign militant groups. At present, the uses of helicopters are mostly for casualty evacuation, troop mobility and other logistics roles. Air Force, BSF, civil helicopters and UAVs are now deployed in support of all COIN. The tactics now adopted in a COIN is, maximum de-centralisation of control, leaving the command to field commanders to take decisions. Maoist insurgency is a panIndian problem. As a strategy, CRPF along with BSF, RPF, CISF, ITBP, NSG, state IRB/commando forces and SSB are
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deployed to contain insurgency. The strategy of insurgents varies from state to state excluding Maoists’, which is common in all the affected states. The new training tactics adopted by the COIN troops include hostage crisis, rescuing citizens abducted by Maoists, providing proximate security to VIPs on visit to infested areas, resolving suicide attacks, counter terrorist operations, casualty evacuation by air and quick reaction in providing logistics and reliable communication to the spot. Additional 15 Nishant Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and about 50 OFB Kolkata made counter-land mine vehicles had been provided to field areas to protect troops from hidden mines. First time the drone camera was used at Saharanpur on 27 July 2014 to keep riot affected areas under surveillance. Economic, political factors and nexus between Maoists-politicians-policebureaucrats and businesspersons provided tactical gain to insurgency. Indirect finance provided to insurgents gave them superior technology, arms and modern equipments and latest communication devices.
Latest Modern Equipments Now Used By Coin Troops:
TATA Mine Protected Vehicle (MPV) TATA Motors Defence Solutions produce the Mine Protected Vehicle (MPV), for the military, paramilitary and police forces. The vehicle is deployed in counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir, north-east and all LWE mine-prone areas. MPV measures 6.58m in length, 2.60m in width, Gross Vehicle Weight 14.3 tonnes and carrying a maximum load of 1,400 kilograms. The Level III ballistic protection provides substantive protection against 7.62 mm guns, ball ammunition and AK-47 rounds fired from 10 m range at 90° angle of attack. The vehicle survives a 14-kg TNT blast force under hull and 21 kg TNT explosion under any wheel. MPV can even withstand against IEDs and AP mines. Explosive detection kit Looking like a little pocket sized cigar box gives a mighty punch in the fight against terrorism. India’s DRDO develops this EDK used by bomb detection squads and COIN forces.
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COUNTER INSURGENCY
�
An Indian army soldier takes aim with a US made M4 Carbine 5.56mm rifle as a US Army Sergeant looks on during an Indo-US army exercise
A few drops of four reagents contained in four vials can detect explosives based on TNT, RDX, dynamite, and black powder within minutes with no more than three to 5 mgs of the suspected sample. It does not require field calibration, power or peripheral devices. Besides the wallet sized disposable kit for covert and anti-insurgency operations, it is also available in vanity sized field cases for bomb squads. Corner Shot Rifle India’s DRDO Pune has developed a corner-shot rifle for the Special Forces that provide greater safety during counterinsurgency operations as its user is not in the direct line of fire. The lightweight rifle is made of composite materials and is multi-calibre, capable of firing both 5.56 and 7.62 rounds. Made available to Special Forces like the National Security Guard (NSG), Indian Army and police units.
A few drops of four reagents contained in four vials can detect explosives based onTNT, RDX, dynamite, and black powder within minutes with no more than three to 5 mgs of the suspected sample. It does not require field calibration, power or peripheral devices.
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Suitcase satcom terminals Suitcase-based satcom sets with readily deployable Ku-Band terminals for unlimited ranges had been acquired. Vehicles, mules or jawans can carry them to jungle areas where line-of-sight communication is not possible. Each quick-to-air terminal includes two-three suitcases to hold an antenna, dish and other equipment. Security forces are deployed in remote thick forest areas dominated by various militant groups and LWEs. There are no roads to penetrate to Abuzmand, Dandakaranya and Saranda forests, existing roads are mined and to be avoided. Jawans have to trek long to operate in these inhospitable terrain, many of which get cut-off during monsoon. These suitcase version satcom terminals give the best of communication in any counter insurgency operation.
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LIGHT-WEIGHT BULLET PROOF JACKET
High grade, level-3 Kevlar bulletproof vests. Withstand a 7.62-calibre bullet fired from 10m from an AK-47. The 2.2kg vest costs Rs 35,000 to Rs 2 lakhs a piece. Used by CRPF and NSG in COIN against own militant groups in Kashmir, Manipur & all Maoist-affected states. Commandos in COIN need body armour and designers are looking to balance protection, comfort and weight. Extremely lightweight nanomaterials that could revolutionise body armour are several years away from being realised. Nanotechnology one day may be able to provide with a suit of armour that fits like a t-shirt.
FABRIQUE NATIONALE D’HERSTAL F-2000 ASSAULT RIFLE
A 5.56x45 mm NATO calibre, Belgiummade rifle. The 3.5 kg rifle fires 850 rounds per minute with effective range of 500 m. Bull pup design places the magazine behind the trigger, making it easier to manoeuvre and reload. With a barrel length of 400 mm, and width of 81.3 mm; a height of 259.1 mm the gun is ideal for quick reaction. It uses cartridges like 5.56 mmx45 mm calibre and gas operated ballast with rotating bolts, a rate of fire of 850 rounds/min; and a muzzle velocity 900 m/s. For Sights, the gun uses 1.6Ă— magnified telescopic sights with a notch back-up sight. Special Protection Group as a quick reaction weapon is using it. Advanced audio communication set Wireless headset and receiver allows the commando to talk to other unit members during operations, while his hands are free to work the weapon. This communication equipment is frequently used in counter insurgency operation against Maoists in 10 to 15 states, CRPF, NSG, SPG and now, Delhi Police are also using it. X95 Assault Rifle The X95 is the firearm of the next generation. It was created to deal with modern threats of anti-terror, urban and open area combat. The X95 incorporates advanced technology that allows interchangeability from 5.56 mm ammunition to 9 mm ammunition. This leap in technology allows the fighter to use the same weapon platform for a wide array of scenarios.
An Indian policeman stands alert during an encounter in Srinagar
The interchangeability can be done with a silencer for all calibres. Ideal weapon used by paramilitary forces particularly BSF and CRPF dealing with counter insurgency operations in all affected states. X95 Israel Rifle IWI Ltd Israel Weapon Industries has introduced a new conversion kit for its X95 assault rifle, allowing operators to choose between 5.45 mm, 5.56 mm and 9 mm ammunitions. The X95 has an effective range of 500 meters in its rifle and carbine configuration and 150 meters in its 9 mm submachine gun mode. The new kit was tested in extreme conditions including dust, water, heat, and cold for reliability and shooting accuracy. SVD (Dragunov) Marksman Sniper rifle of origin Soviet Union used by CRPF and BSF against Maoists and other militants in their counter insurgency operations. Mauser SP66 sniper rifle (Germany) Calibres(s): 7.62x51mm
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Operation: manual; rotating bolt action Feed Mechanism: three rounds integral box magazine. This Sniper Rifle is now used against Maoists in Chhattisgarh, Malkangiri, Dantewada, Kanker, Sukma, Jamui and all affected areas by paramilitary forces particularly CRPF and BSF. It is handy to target the extremists in Maoist-affected areas when they take human shields of civilians. Very accurate in its hit based on short-throw bolt action. It comes with Zeiss Diavari ZA 1.5-6X variable power scope. Heckler-Koch MSG-90 sniper rifle (Germany) Calibre: 7.62mm Operation: Semi-auto, Roller delayed blowback Barrel: 600 mm Feed Mechanism: 5 or 20 round detachable box magazines. The German company introduced MSG-90 sniper rifle. There are no open sights on the MSG-90, and standard 10 x telescope sight
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COUNTER INSURGENCY fit it with range settings from 100 to 1200 meters. The scope is mounted on the military standard scope rail that allows for various scopes and night vision devices to be mounted interchangeably. The MSG-90A1 also is equipped with open sights - a typical HK hooded front sight, combined with adjustable rear sights, marked up to 1200 meters. The ejection port is fitted with brass deflector, which allows the gun to be fired from the left shoulder. Otherwise, it is similar to the MSG-90. This sniper rifle is now a terror to the Maoists. Paramilitary forces are now equipped with it to take the correct target from a distance. UAVs The UAVs for COIN missions have become the fastest growing, promising technology markets in the world. The research analyses the complexities involved with UAVs for counter-insurgency – technologies, tactics, operating concepts and its maintenance. India, for its counter insurgency operations is using low altitude UAVs depending upon areas of concern (mountainous or plain or thick forest/jungle), types of threats, operating concept, utilisation of sensors and radio/ communication coverage. It provides aerial surveillance on the target areas. Its endurance depends on the fuel it carries. The UAV flown in LWE areas in Chhattisgarh, Raipur, Dantewada and Gadhchiroli belts can stay aloft for 3/4 hours. The COIN ops commanders with a very short delay, view its video feed on the ground, and frequently, the paramilitary, IRB, state commando operational commanders watching the feed, plan their operations after verifying their targets, the terrain, number of militants and their weapons on move. Our DRDO UAVs are not going to be able to deal with every surveillance task in LWE; northeast and western border against the extremists, as until now, it cannot take a radar in it Medium endurance, low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles have to be provided as an aid to the ground forces in COIN with means to circle over an area of interest up to one day and monitor suspected insurgents in all Maoist-affected states. Non Lethal Weapons From July 2011, the BSF has adopted the non-lethal strategy for border domination along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Nonlethal strategy is the use of methods,
TATA Motors vehicle which is very effective for counter insurgency operations
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The COIN ops commanders with a very short delay, view its video feed on the ground, and frequently, the paramilitary, IRB, state commando operational commanders watching the feed, plan their operations after verifying their targets, the terrain, number of militants and their weapons on move.
devices, weapons and munitions explicitly designed and primarily employed to immediately incapacitate targeted criminals, minimising fatalities, permanent injury and undesired damage to property in the target area. Non-lethal weapons are used in situations where employment of lethal
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force is prohibited or undesirable, where rules of engagement require minimum casualties or where policy restricts the use of conventional force in any COIN. Pump Action Gun (PAG) Shotguns come in a wide variety of sizes, ranging from 5.5 mm bore up to 5 cm bore and in a range of firearm operating mechanisms, including breech loading, single- barrelled, double or combination gun, pump actions, bolt action and lever action, semi- automatic and even fully automatic variants. The munitions for the gun are Shot 6 and Shot 8 and 12 gauge rubber buckshot. Taser – An electro-shock weapon that creates neuromuscular incapacitation, which fires small dart like electros, which can be used in urban and village area while dealing with extremists.
FUTURISTIC PLAN FOR ACQUSITION AND MODERNISATION:
Stun lasers In future, our security, police and paramilitary forces might employ non-lethal “laser dazzlers” to blind and disorient insurgents and terrorists in order to capture them alive and to interrogate them to gain intelligence. This high-tech weapon can be used as a precursor to firing lethal munitions. The development of these “stun” lasers is of course in congruence with the development of highly lethal weapons-grade
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Soldiers wearing Ceradyne body armour and helmets developed from high performance materials
lasers that can be used on insurgents and militants. Having an effective range of 300 metres, Saber 203 uses a state-of-the-art semiconductor laser specially fitted into an unmodified M-203, 40-mm grenade launcher. Bore sighted for accuracy, the grenade launcher is attached to a standard M-16 combat rifle. The Laser dazzler has the Infrared Camera/Illuminator.
VISIBLE LASER: LASER DAZZLER NON-LETHAL LASER
XM25 rifle gun The XM 25 rifle gun is a logical extension of radio and laser-guidance technology. This new weapon was created and developed by Heckler and Koch together with bullet designer Alliant Techsystems. The XM 25 has the ability to fire its ammunition up to 2.3 km and with its 25 mm bullet targeting a militant, even if he is hidden behind the walls or other cover with the help of the gun’s laser sight.
Its 25 mm bullet was designed to explode over the heads of its target and works out as an airburst that seems to have the ability to calculate the distance travelled from the number of rotations that the bullet has taken after leaving the gun’s barrel. These bullets look like small grenades or cannon shells. Helmet with in-built AC to keep commandos cool The US army is developing a next generation protective helmet with a built-in airconditioning system to help security personnel beat the heat in any type of COIN. The new technology brings relief to the jawan through a powered air-purifying respirator, which consists of a hose connected to the facemask from a blower unit and battery pack hanging off the hip or back. Faster, Quieter, Safer Helicopters Paramilitary and state police forces in counter insurgency operations need faster choppers. Medical evacuation units need
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more speed to reach critical areas of the incident more quickly and to be able to dodge militant’s fire. There is a need for agile, quiet, less detectable rotorcraft. A modified stealth helicopter could be used in anti-Maoist operations in Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh where militants had fired on BSF and Air Force helicopters while evacuating casualties. India can obtain noiseless V-22 Ospreys, which can reach cruise speeds of 250 knots. The technology, which could be used on V-22, employs radar that scans ahead of the hepter to detect any obstacles. It then displays what it sees for pilots to land safely. Enhanced Combat Helmet Kevlar and Twaron combat helmets made of ballistic fibers can withstand a direct hit from a 9-mm pistol or even some bomb fragments. The Enhanced Combat Helmet, which the US Army use is capable of stopping a rifle round. It is made of ultra
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At Eurosatory 2012 IWI introduced the flat-top version of many of its assault rifles. Among those that of the X95 SF assault rifle and submachine gun can be chambered both for 5.56 or 9x19 mm rounds. (IWI)
high-molecular-weight polyethylene, a type of thermoplastic, weighs about 3 pounds, the same as the other helmets. Wearable Batteries Arotech USA developed the Soldier Wearable Integrated Power Equipment System to eliminate the need to bring along extra power packs. The system uses highcapacity zinc–air and lithium-ion batteries to continuously charge a soldier’s two-way radio, GPS unit, and other devices. Worn in a tactical vest, the thin flexible power source extends missions and reduces battery weight by 30 percent. X-Ray Bomb & Threat Detection Flatscan-TPXi security x-rays for threat-detection Benefits • Unparalleled image clarity • Streamlined operation • Minimum time on target • Quick and efficient operation • Fast image assessment
• Lightweight, compact & robust • Simple and intuitive • Powerful image analysis • Real-time, remote-from-site-viewing, for backup Applications • Security, police and customs • Suspect bag and package inspection • EOD evaluation • Vehicle inspection • Counter surveillance sweeps and through wall scanning The ways the technologies to be used will depend on the kind of scenario to emerge in the field. The present unstable scenario prevailing, is a concern to the country, as few states fail to dominate its areas in its COIN. Internal implications of the failures are too many, like, lack of governance, polarisation of various regions, safety-security of civilians, proactive militants and no political will. Greater contact with civil/police headquarters, quick movement/ mobility,
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appreciation of ground actual, awareness of internal situation, free flow of field intelligence and first hand intelligence will defeat terrorism from our country. Brutality in killing police informers by the militants, LWEs expanding their tentacles, growing terrorism in border areas of Pak and Bangladesh and extremism in Kashmir, require tactful handling. To prevent insurgency spreading into new areas and to make it stagnate and ultimately, eradicate it from existing areas, intensive and co-ordinated COIN have to be launched in a manner, which are intelligence based by all affected states. Insurgents should not be allowed to cross state border or international boundary. It has to be the combined effort of the central govt and all the states to adopt the same tactics and strategy utilising all modern technologies to give a big push to counter insurgency operations to get success forcing the new tactics adopted by militants to fail.
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GEOSPATIAL
GEOSPATIAL INTEL: REQUIREMENTS FOR TACTICAL NETWORK SYSTEM
In this largely theoretical treatment of the needs of Geospatial intelligence gathering, one cannot but emphasise its importance in the context of all spectrum warfare 38
A S NAGRA
KEY POINTS
Key element of GEOINT is a ‘common operational picture’ that the commander and the shooter sees simultaneously. Important aspect of GEOINT is the exploitation of three dimensional imagery, along with the fourth – time added on to it. Demand for higher band-width calls for more spectrum.
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A modern-day Joint Operations Centre leverages digital geospatial information at all levels, around a multi-window information wall, displaying on-demand layers of the Common Operational Picture
Advanced use of geospatial information as capability demonstration tool deployed alongside battlegroup commanders to assess radio connectivity for both mission planning and execution
“If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven [weather] and know Earth [terrain], you may make your victory complete” —Sun Tzu 1910
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hroughout history, terrain has played a defining role in the outcome of armed conflict. Clever exploitation of the terrain allows an inferior force to defeat a more powerful enemy, while ignorance of the battlefield effects of terrain quickly nullify combat power. Geospatial Intelligence is a new intelligence discipline emerged out of the convergence of geospatial and imagery information. The convergence is enabled by tremendous technological advances in processing of digital data, precise geo-positioning systems, remotely controlled sensors and imageries which permit the data to be
moved and manipulated interchangeably between maps, charts and imageries. Venerable paper maps and charts have been replaced by Geographical Information Systems software tools and digital databases which have become the key medium for visualizing geospatially referenced information. Geospatial Intelligence or GEOINT represents one of the most important recent developments in intelligence gathering and usage for conducting not only military operations but also countering asymmetric threats. However, it is important to realise that this system’s full potential can only be realised when it is fully integrated right up to the tactical level. In order to effectively integrate geospatial intelligence with tactical operations, field units must have real time communications with those providing the intelligence, both before and during operations. In this way, it becomes possible to make geographically based intelligence part of the on-site decision making process. GEOINT data is traded as per the queries/operations performed by the user at the tactical level. The degree of superiority of the GEOINT will, therefore, have a dominating effect on planning and successful conduct of military operations. By effectively integrating GEOINT at the
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tactical level, the effectiveness of military units, no matter their size, can be vastly improved. In today’s complex combat environment, awareness of the surrounding physical environment can help assure success on the battlefield for the forward looking military.
What is GEOINT?
Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) is a new intelligence discipline emerged out of the convergence of Imagery, imagery information (IMINT), and geospatial information as shown in Fig 1 below. So Geospatial Intelligence is the merger of geospatial data with imageries so as to reach at layers of information that showcase the physical and cultural features of the area of interest in three dimensions and allow users to appreciate and visualise the terrain. Through accurate 3-D visualisation, GEOINT allows fast appreciation of the physical environment and rapid evaluation of adversary`s likely courses of action. Geospatial reference data such as Terrain feature data and Digital Terrain Elevation (DTE) provide the environment context, while current satellite/aerial imageries of area of interest, supplies the dynamic context. It is also the case that GEOINT provides a geospatial foundation for most of the other intelligence gathering disciplines:
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GEOSPATIAL
Papermaps are still widely used in current network-centric operations, but their quality has drastically improved, along with their modularity, forward-deployed military workshops deliver on-demand and mission tailored digital maps
HUMINT (Human Intelligence), MASINT (Measurement And Signal Intelligence), SIGINT (Signal Intelligence) etc. Characteristics of GEOINT are: uses variety of high technology sensors combines geospatial data of multiple types integrates analysis of intelligence into all issues exploits intelligence and data from other intel sources to provide context incorporates more dimensions to standard geospatial products like 3rd Dimension: provides the capability to visualise in three dimensions (3D) 4th Dimension: integrates the element of time and movement (allowing for realistic motion to create dynamic and inter active visual products). Modern war has three distinct levels — strategic, operational and tactical. Geospatial information is essential for an intelligent and
updated situational awareness at all levels whether operating in hostile environments or in peace time. Any strategic decision concerning movement of assets is empowered by geospatial information. Commanders can create scenarios for positioning of their assets, to ensure easy accessibility and speedy mobilisation of resources in case of outbreak of hostilities or in situations like natural or man-made disasters, acts of terrorism or insurgency.
GEOINT At Tactical Level
Military commanders of all modern armies working in ‘digital’ battlefield environment utilise geospatial information of ‘intelligent’ maps and geospatial data as the foundation, on which they operate the Command, Control, Communication, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting, Acquisition and Reconnaissance (C4ISTAR)
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solutions to make effective command and control decisions which can be at strategic, operational or tactical levels. At tactical level, soldiers upwards to their commanders at platoon, company or battalion level are inter-connected and together they all see the Common Operations Picture (COP) on a near realtime basis based on the geospatial backbone. Such multiple tactical battlefield management systems at battalion level are further connected at the operational level to the higher level Tactical Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (TAC C3I) systems being operated by headquarters at brigade, division and corps levels. At strategic level of command and army headquarters use geospatial intelligence system in a networked environment where a comprehensive and complete view of the theatre of operations is made available for
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strategising and monitoring the operations. Geo-intelligence tools are getting more sophisticated and powerful than ever, but these tools are frequently tailored to upperechelon command centres, which house the expertise, the bandwidth, and the infrastructure to delve deep into advanced geospatial analysis. The challenge is to push geospatial capabilities as far down to the tactical level as possible –– giving those users just the right data to make quick, confident decisions based on up-to-theminute data. But doing so is difficult, for a number of reasons. Firstly, front-line users need systems that are intuitive, user-friendly, and that require little training. If a new technology takes too long to learn or to use, it will quickly be abandoned in favour of a reliable old standby. Secondly, technology needs to strike a balance between giving those users the data they need, yet not overwhelming them with information that is not tied to their mission. That extra data not only clouds their picture of operations, it wastes precious bandwidth and network capacity. And finally, new tools can’t realise their full potential if they are just one-way streets. These systems need a networked collaboration backbone, creating a web of users that can connect critical dots in real-time.
GEOINT Requirements For Tactical Network Systems
In the context of Military Operations at the tactical levels, the growing demand for the war fighters has been the most important factor behind the emergence of the new geospatial intelligence field. The faster pace of the targeting cycle and a large number of targets has placed immense stress on the intelligence production process. To create the basic picture of the environment in which the forces are likely to be operating is crucial, either to a military operation across the border or in the homeland security context. Geospatial intelligence embraced the concept of Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield covering the layout of the terrain, environment and the infrastructure like the roads, the bridges, the railway lines, the electricity transmission & distribution system and many more features that are considered during operational planning. GEOINT requirements at the tactical level are as under:(a) Availability of Real / Near Real Time
DSI
This amazingly sharp view of Surobi province in Afghanistan is not a photo, but a high-fidelity 3D virtual rendering that forms the terrain database for French Army Tigre and NH90 helicopters
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Commanders can create scenarios for positioning of their assets, to ensure easy accessibility and speedy mobilisation of resources in case of outbreak of hostilities or in situations like natural or man-made disasters, acts of terrorism or insurgency.
Information: The timeliness required for rapid, precision engagement demands closer integration of the tools and processes of the imagery specialists who detect and characterise targets and the geospatial specialists who characterise and measure the battle space. Crucial decisions of the highest order, including when and
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where to start combat operations are becoming more and more dependent on geospatial intelligence. Today’s complex intelligence environment demands the ability to access real-time data that can be used immediately to support the mission and protect the warfighter. (b) Common Operating Picture (COP): A modern Army wants to give troops and the brass a common geospatial view of the battlefield in such a way that a General looking at his Command Post of the Future battlefield display could see the same terrain and features as an intelligence analyst seated at a Distributed Common Ground System-Army computer, or a soldier looking at friendly troop positions on a smart phone or vehicle display. An officer in a command post might be looking at a 1-to- 50,000-scale map while his troops in the field are looking at 1-to- 100,000scale maps. One map could be populated with different information about the status of features, such as bridge or roads, than the maps the others are using. (c) Availability of Accurate and Current Information: Decision-makers must have current and accurate information to act decisively and appropriately in support of
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GEOSPATIAL
Automated sensor exploitation and computer aided geo-referencing have boosted time and reliability of photogrammetry and map making
military operations and planning. The need to collect and analyse all types of geospatial data is essential to make fully informed decisions With more geospatial data available than ever before, the key to useful intelligence is the ability to fuse disparate data and provide a common operating picture to ensure that operations run smoothly. This common reference must contain the most up-to-date, accurate information possible, so users can extract what they need and use it without delay. By properly exploiting geospatial intelligence, analysts can make sense of, and even predict, geographically referenced activities anywhere on earth. (d) Speed of Information: Speed of information is critical. The importance of speedy processing of data fusion and avoidance of bottlenecks cannot be overemphasised which may entail making live connections to source data wherever you find it. Advanced geospatially powered technologies are needed to use data in its original format so that no middleware or data conversion is needed. This reduces the steps needed to incorporate that data into the overall intelligence picture, saving precious time, increasing confidence, and allowing analysts to focus on missioncritical tasks.
Geospatial Intelligence has emerged out of the convergence of geospatial information and imagery information.The convergence is enabled by tremendous technological advances in processing of digital data, precise geo-positioning systems, remotely controlled sensors and imageries which permit the data to be moved and manipulated interchangeably between maps, charts and imageries.
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(e) Change Detection: Detecting changes from imagery over time has been a vital intelligence function for decades, but handling the increased flow of data requires new, more efficient tools. Technology needs to provide a solution to the broad area search problem, in which analysts should be able to identify changes of interest from imagery covering a vast area by providing precise tools for visual comparison, as well as for imagery classification and automated change detection. Additionally, integration with the results from third-party multispectral analysis should be feasible to provide the ability to analyse changes in the environment that can go undetected by the naked eye. For example, solution should allow the user to view convoy routes to detect the presence of deadly Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). (f) Visualisation: Decision-makers sometimes need to be able to visualise intelligence in real-world scenarios. GEOINT technologies should enable individual PC and laptop users to experience fully interactive terrain viewing and should be accessible via the Internet, an intranet, or DVD/CD-ROM by displaying highly realistic, detailed scenes , facility to view from any angle or point of view – and should allow extremely close views of an area with excellent clarity. It should enable real-time 3D visualisation capabilities for an entire range of geospatial information. Combining dynamic and accurate geospatial data with real-time streaming imagery capabilities should let users evaluate situations using realistic, location-specific environments, including geo-referenced real-time video feeds. This allows true-to-life representation and better interaction with location-based data, enhancing situation analysis and decision support. Facility to export content to a KML format for viewing within Google Earth is also desirable. (g) Enabling Collaboration: GEOINT needs to enable various stake-holders to collaborate with other agencies to provide a complete intelligence picture that supports the mission and saves lives. (h) Incorporation of New Data Sources into Legacy Sources: GEOINT technology must ensure that processing of current information also enables the fusion of disparate data types from a variety of live and historical sources by building solutions on industry standards, such as those defined by the Open Geospatial Consortium
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(OGC®).For example, connecting to OGC Web services gives you access to live weather feeds, motion imagery from unmanned aerial vehicles, and other live data, which can be fused directly with data from other sources. Regardless of how many disparate data formats a user encounters, the solution should integrate that data into a consistent common operating picture so as to enable imagery analysts an access to intelligence that is not only complete, but also easy to interpret. (j) Geospatial Content Management: GEOINT technologies should enable user to fuse volumes of geospatial data from different sources, formats, scales, and time frames. Applications should ingest and manage a wide variety of geospatial information to provide the user with a rich repository of geospatial content that can be queried and disseminated to a variety of end-user applications and interfaces. It should also enable upstream processing for automated tasks on incoming imagery and other data, freeing up valuable time for more dedicated analysis. (k) Availability of Adequate Band Width: Battlefield transparency through GEOINT can only be achieved if robust and reliable communication is made available with necessary bandwidths and media redundancy. As part of exploitation of technologies, there is a need to maximise compression to ensure free flow/near free flow of information with no/minimum prioritisation. The lack of bandwidth on wireless media for mobile operations is one of the most complex technical challenges to NCW. A potential aid in this issue is the use of computer software to compress the signals in a manner to ensure least consumption of traditional amount of space in the frequency spectrum. With streaming and stored video an increasingly important part of Network Centric Warfare systems, the ability to deliver high bandwidth streams with low latency and low jitter is critical. This is not just at headquarters command locations, from a variety of video sensor platforms but increasingly to individual vehicles and war fighters. In many cases, these video streams must be delivered expeditiously across multiple hops (node-to-node connections) without loss of performance. (l) Secure Communication: To achieve information superiority, an organisation must have a robust network that can
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A tactical drone ground station shows the aircraft’s flight path, the named areas of interest, and the sensor footprint over a digital map
support the demands of today’s operations. Today’s networks reflect this ongoing transformation. Infrastructure and mindsets are migrating from sequential, point-to-point, and compartmentalised to an agile, networked, collaborative environment that is rapidly evolving. Proprietary solutions are being replaced by open, interoperable systems. Point solutions are being replaced by ubiquitous solutions. A robust, resilient, flexible, and secure network is the desired result. Recent US and allied operations in Iraq and Afghanistan have prompted a shift in military planning doctrine away from the highly structured task oriented Military Decision Making Process, toward a more flexible creative problem solving method. The geospatial community should mirror this approach with a flexible geospatial foundation layer that spans the information domain in such a way as to support the open system concept. Flexibility of geospatial information allows for the enterprise to be flexible to the ― geospatial tastes of a wider range of tactical decision makers. It also allows the enterprise to be adaptable to a greater range
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of operational information requirements. A huge prerequisite to enable the effective use of geospatial information across the information domain is the training of all tactical decision makers on the breadth and applications of geospatial information. The training increases the capability of the soldiers, leaders and planners to transform geospatial information into mental models of the terrain thus producing good situational understanding. Geospatial Intelligence has emerged out of the convergence of geospatial information and imagery information. The convergence is enabled by tremendous technological advances in processing of digital data, precise geo-positioning systems, remotely controlled sensors and imageries which permit the data to be moved and manipulated interchangeably between maps, charts and imageries. Geointelligence tools are getting more sophisticated and powerful than ever, but the challenge is to push geospatial capabilities as far down to the tactical level as possible — giving those users just the right data to make quick, confident decisions based on up-to-the-minute data.
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Mi-17
PROPOSED BAN ON RUSSIAN ARMS FIRM WOULD HURT U.S. TROOPS
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day after President Barack Obama slapped sanctions on several Russian arms firms over the Ukraine conflict, a top U.S. general warned that a congressional bid to bar dealings with Moscow’s main weapons exporter could be “catastrophic” for U.S. forces. Marine General Joseph Dunford, commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, said 88 Russian helicopters the Pentagon is buying for Afghan security forces were critical for protecting U.S. troops that remain in the country after the end of this year.
Dunford’s comments to a Senate committee illustrate the fine line the U.S. government walks in imposing sanctions on Russia without compromising its interests or those of its allies. It shows the wide-ranging, and often unintended, consequences of sanctions on specific industries such as defense. On Wednesday, Obama imposed sanctions on some of Russia’s biggest firms for the first time, striking at the heart of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s power base by targeting companies closest to him. The ban included eight arms firms.
Dunford said the 88 Russian Mi-17 transport helicopters had been purchased for the Afghan air force, with the last deliveries expected this year. Thirty of the helicopters will go to Afghan special operations forces for counterterrorism and counter-narcotics operations, he said. “Without the operational reach of the Mi-17, the Afghan forces will not be successful in providing security and stability in Afghanistan and will not be an effective counterterrorism partner,” said Dunford, who has been nominated by Obama to be the next commandant of the Marine Corps.
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He also said the decision to reduce the size of the U.S. force in Afghanistan to 9,800 by the end of the year was partly based on the assumption that Afghans would be equipped to provide some security to the remaining U.S. and coalition forces. “Their ability to do that would be significantly degraded without the Mi17,” Dunford said, adding it would have a “catastrophic” effect. “The reason I used the word ‘catastrophic,’ which I don’t think is hyperbole, is because the inability of the Afghans to have the operational reach represented by the Mi-17 will seriously deteriorate their ability to take the fight to the enemy,” the general told lawmakers “Their inability to take the fight to the enemy actually will put young Americans in harm’s way in 2015 and beyond,” Dunford said. Many U.S. lawmakers, concerned about Russia’s involvement in Syria and later Ukraine, have strongly opposed the military’s decision to buy Mi-17 helicopters for the Afghan air forces
Mi-17 armaments
Mi-17
from Rosoboronexport, the state-owned Russian arms exporter. Defense officials say the Mi-17 is the best choice for Afghanistan because it handles the climate and terrain well and Afghan pilots, air crews and maintenance workers have dealt with the aircraft since the 1980s. Shifting to more sophisticated U.S. helicopters would require retraining pilots and maintenance workers, delaying the effort to build Afghanistan’s air capacity by several years, officials say. Rosoboronexport has so far not been sanctioned by Washington over the Ukraine crisis, but senators who oppose the helicopter deal have included language in this year’s defense policy bill that would prevent Pentagon dealings with the firm. Dunford said that while the helicopters already had been bought, the law would make it hard to buy spare parts to maintain the aircraft. He said he had been able to find no way to maintain the helicopters without dealing with Rosoboronexport. “My assessment is that that would not be possible,” he said. —Expert’s Opinion
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PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF INDIAN DEFENCE DEFENCE PLANNING
PLANNING Indian army’s bid to indigenously build FICVs in the private sector – albeit with foreign partners – reflects the confusions and concerns with Indian defence planning in the medium and long term.
RAHUL BEDI
KEY POINTS
The PSQR is still not clear whether the
FICV is to be tracked or wheeled. The new government has shown a penchant for public-private partnership and also international business. Many feel urgent necessity lies in fast tracking the initiatives to acquire new weapon systems.
I
ndia’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has resurrected its indigenous $ 11-12 billion Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) programme to replace the Army’s ageing fleet of some 2500 Soviet-designed BMP-1s and BMP-2s. Mooted in 2009 as the country’s first locally designed-and-built platform to be developed under the Defence Procurement
Procedures (DPP) ‘Make Indian (hi-tech)’ category, the MoD was supposed to finance around 80 per cent of the cost of two 20-22 ton FICV prototypes. One of these was to be selected; following 24 months of field trials in varied terrain sometime around 2020, to eventually series build 2,610 FICVs.
Future Infantry Combat Vehicle
Official sources say, the MoD is presently completing financial details of the complex project -intended to be the world’s most modern FICV - before issuing an Expression of Interest (EOI) over the next few months to eight local companies, inviting them to participate in the ambitious programme. These include Bharat Forge, Mahindra Defence, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Punj Lloyd, Roltas, Tata Power SED and Titagarh Wagons from the private sector, and the public sector Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and Pipavav Defence, all of who will be permitted ‘collaborative tieups’ with overseas manufacturers. By late June 2014, all the eight had made their initial FICV presentations to the MoD’s
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specially instituted Integrated Project Management Team (IPMT). Industry sources said foreign vendors likely to participate include CMI, Nexter and Thales (France), Rheinmettal (Germany), Elbit Systems, Rafael and Raytheon (Israel), Doosan Group (South Korea), Rosonboronexport (Russia), BAE Systems (UK) and General Dynamics (USA). In response to the EoI, potential manufacturers will need to submit their Detailed Project Reports, which will include technical details, developmental deadlines and tentative cost projections by the year-end for the IPMTs evaluation. Thereafter, the IPMT will inspect the shortlisted manufacturers’ engineering and design facilities and by late 2015-early 2016 select two vendors to build one FICV prototype each within 24 months, funded largely by the MoD.
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T-90 Tank
The projected FICV will need to remain operational for at least 30-40 years; and in keeping with DPP requirements, eventually include an indigenous content of at least 50 per cent in its overall project cost value. Competing vendors acknowledge that crucial FICV inputs like its engine and transmission system would initially necessitate an overseas tie-up, till local technical capability is developed. “The FICV project is a major opportunity for India’s fledgling defence-related private manufacturing sector, benefitting not only the developmental agencies but also boosting local primary and secondary systems and sub-assembly suppliers” military analyst and retired lieutenant general, Vijay Kapoor said. Other officials connected with the FICV programme said it was also a ‘test case’ of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s newly installed administration’s seriousness in involving the private sector in the design and manufacture of a major weapon platforms in keeping with its frequently declared aim of reducing dependency on imported materiel.
Defence Industrial Partnership
The two prototypes would undergo trials after which one would be chosen based on its performance and cost. The MoD would then get into a contract with the projectwinning vendor sometime around 2019-20 to build around 60 per cent or 1,566 FICV’s; and the runner-up the remaining 1,044 identical platforms for the same price. Platform inductions would begin in 36-48 months later around 2024. The Army’s Preliminary Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) of the airconditioned, amphibious and airtransportable FICV powered by a 600hp engine; however, remain unclear on whether it is to be a tracked or a wheeled platform or both. Earlier around 2010, a handful of contractors like L&T, Mahindra and Tata had worked extensively and at great expense on developing both types, but little came of the initiative.
The FICV is to be operated by a threeman crew, carry a ‘stick’ of seven infantrymen and be equipped with fireand-forget anti-tank missiles with a 4-5 km range, 40mm grenade launchers - a secondary armament with a 2km strike range - and a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun. It will also be protected against mines, aerial, kinetic and chemical energy strikes and nuclear, biological and chemical attack. An advanced communications suite and its eventual connectivity to the Indian military’s ‘under-development’ battlefield management system (BMS), completes the FICVs PSQR, which will no doubt alter somewhat, as the programme unfolds. The FICV project was abandoned in 2011-12 after Russia offered India its BMP-3 ICV but in December 2013, the Indian Army and MoD rejected this proposal and decided in favour of the earlier indigenous option.
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DSI
India imports nearly 70 per cent of its military equipment requirements. And despite public declamations for over two decades by successive governments of increasing private sector participation in the defence sector, the MoD has openly favoured the monopolistic and grossly under-performing state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the 41 OFB units and eight Defence Public Sector Units (DPSUs) in awarding design contracts and joint ventures (JVs) with foreign original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Military planners, meanwhile, take small solace not only from the revival of the FICV project programme, but also from two of Defence Minister Arun Jaitley’s recent initiatives in pushing forward the privatisation of India’s defence-industrial sector, albeit to a limited degree. These include increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) in the defence sector from 26 to 49 per cent and concurrently ending the monopoly of the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in domestic aircraft manufacturing by excluding it from the long-postponed $2 billion Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme for
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DEFENCE PLANNING BAE Systems-CV90-3
the Indian Air Force (IAF). The MTA project involves the import 16 platforms followed by local licensed production of 40 more via a JV with the OEM to replace the IAF’s obsolete fleet of BAE Systems Avro 748s. The HAL and associated public sector companies had successfully managed, during the previous Congress Party-led coalition government, to stall the MTA project by insisting on their involvement in the programme, a participation the IAF too strongly opposed. For decades the IAF has ineffectually railed against HAL’s questionable performance in building under licence and maintaining fighters, transport aircrafts and helicopters and interminable delays in designing new platforms like the badly-needed basic and intermediate jet trainers. Consequently, it seized upon the MTA programme as an opportunity to try and create an alternate supplier to the monopolistic HAL, the success of which remains undecided for now. However, in a related development, the MoD recently met another of the IAF’s long standing demands by appointing its Deputy Chief of Air Staff (DCAS), Air Marshal SBP Sinha to HAL’s board of directors to give it greater say in the functioning of its largest platform supplier.
But the market response to these cautious proposals has been subdued.
FDI in Defence
“Hiking FDI in defence from 26 to 49 per cent and excluding HAL from the MTA programme, though positive developments, do not go far enough” said Major General Mrinal Suman (retd), India’s foremost expert on acquisitions and offsets. Both measures will in no way end the monopoly of the MoD-controlled DRDO, OFB and DPSU’s, he regretfully adds. Other analysts said increasing the FDI to 49 per cent would in no way alter the prevailing status quo, by increasing the private sector’s role in the domestic defence sector. Insiders suggest that the FDI was not hiked, as demanded by various financial bodies and chambers of commerce, to a more realistic and workable 74 per cent, due to pressure from indigenous public and private sector lobbies, for they remain technologically insecure about competing with established foreign OEMs. “The 49 per cent hike in defence FDI is disappointing. Technically it makes no difference from 26 per cent. India is the bigger loser. We have just pushed away investments in defence manufacturing by
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another year. Round one to protectionist forces” said Amar Dubey, head of the defence and aerospace division of financial and business advisory consultants, KPMG Other market analysts broadly concurred, maintaining that the increase in FDI signaled no material change and not incentive enough for OEMs to augment investments and induct proprietary technology. “The commercial reality of the 49 per cent hike is that though foreign investors would be eligible to repatriate higher profits they will have limited say on major issues like product diversification and exports” declared Gen Suman. Alongside, Jaitley tellingly almost doubled the DRDO’s capital outlay to assist in India’s military modernisation from the interim defence budgets allocation of Rs 59.85 billion to Rs 92.98 billion. Concomitantly, the capital outlay for OFB’s 41 units that inefficiently build DRDOdesigned equipment at hugely inflated prices too increased exponentially from Rs 5.3 billion to Rs 12.07 billion, signaling an even bigger future role for these doubtfully efficient state-run entities. “There is no way the desperate materiel shortfalls the Indian military faces can ever be met domestically even in the medium
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term over the next 10-15 years. But a beginning need said military analyst Brigadier Arun Sahgal (retired) of the Forum for Strategic Initiative in New Delhi. The MoD, he suggested, needs to formulate a realistic and prioritised plan in consultation with the tri-service Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) to fulfill immediate equipment shortages through direct imports. This needs to be followed by launching intermediate and long-term programmes aimed at self-sufficiency over the next 25-30 years with increased private sector involvement. But to achieve this, the government must ensure a level playing field for the private sector by abolishing exorbitant taxes, tariffs and import duties, which on an average; add nearly 40 per cent to their product developmental and manufacturing costs. Unsurprisingly, the OFB and the DPSU’s are exempt from these liabilities, he added.
The BMP of the Indian Army roll out from an Indian Navy ship and travel through the sea for an amphibious assault during Exercise Tropex-09
Concerns and Challenges
In materiel shortfall the Indian Army is the worst off. It needs carbines, assault, sniper and anti-material rifles, general purpose machine guns, howitzers, night fighting equipment for the bulk of its 59 armour regiments, air defence equipment, light utility, attack and heavy lift helicopters, body armour and assorted ordnance, missiles and ammunition. The 90,000strong 17 Mountain Strike Corps that is currently under raising for deployment by 2022 along the disputed northeastern Chinese frontier too will need imminent equipping. The IAF also faces acute deficiencies. Its fighter squadrons have declined from 39 to around 33 as it eagerly awaits the continually postponed procurement of 126 Dassault Rafale fighters from France to meet its Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) requirement. This delay has forced it to extend the total technical life of ageing fighters like MiG-21 and MiG-27 variants along with its Kiran trainer aircraft. The IAF also awaits the acquisition of mid-air tankers and the long-delayed Fifth Generation Fighter the DRDO is developing jointly with Russia as well as a basic and intermediate jet trainer. Its transport and rotary fleets too need upgrading as does its air defence capability and high altitude radar. The Indian Navy (IN) is desperately short of submarines, submersible mines
DSI
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The FICV is to be operated by a three-man crew, carry a ‘stick’ of seven infantrymen and be equipped with fire-andforget anti-tank missiles with a 4-5 km range, 40 mm grenade launchers - a secondary armament with a 2 km strike range - and a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun.
counter measure vessels, anti-submarine patrol ships, naval light utility and multirole helicopters in addition to varied missiles and on-board 127 mm gun systems, amongst sundry other equipment. However, the ongoing debate over importing materiel at the cost of indigenous development raises the equally vital issue
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of systematic defence planning and more importantly managing its economics in times of limited finances. By now it is more than apparent that India can no longer afford the threat-based continental model of force development, which is not only wasteful but has deprived the country of achieving desired military capability; nor can it sustain extravagant fiscal mismanagement of meager resources. Defence planners concur that the prevailing ad hoc model of single-Service operational readiness needs replacing with one in which the MoD takes the onus of defining the contours of future national military capability in concert with India’s national security interests and realistic threat assessments. More importantly the MoD needs to have stakes in its development, rather than leaving the process to the respective Service headquarters, forever squabbling over allocations and me-First doctrines. Alongside, the MoD in concert with the Services also needs to examine carefully the changing nature of the spectrum of war in the region-from nuclear conflict to low level insurgencies-in order to evaluate the relevance of existing force structures required to meet future security challenges. It is in this context that an articulation of defence strategy in all its aspects and keeping abreast of the revolution in military
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DEFENCE PLANNING
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The Indian Navy (IN) is desperately short of submarines, submersible mines counter measure vessels, anti-submarine patrol ships, naval light utility and multi-role helicopters in addition to varied missiles and onboard 127 mm gun systems, amongst sundry other equipment.
BAE Systems-M777-airlifted by Chinook helicopter
affairs (RMS) underpinned by sound economics is needed, to ably formulate integrated planning and its oversight. “Few in India are working on the crucial issue of defence economics except for a handful of researchers and overseas consulting firms” said retired Lt Gen Vijay Kapoor. It’s time to lift the veil of secrecy surrounding defence planning and procurement procedures and conjoin resource utilisation and capability development, he added. According to a two-star IDS officer associated with defence planning, India’s war waging potential is an amalgam of total optimal capability within outlays provided and keeping competing demands in sight. Therefore, a high modicum of inter-service priortisation, he stated, needs to be effected to prevent duplication or even triplication of assets like in communication and missile systems and rotary and even fixed wing platforms. The delayed appointment of a Permanent Chairman Chief of Staff or alternately a Chief of Defence Staff would go a long way to resolve this quandary. Perspective planning for military modernisation and to address obsolescence issues is a two-tiered process. A Long-Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP) is prepared by the individual Services which, in turn, is coordinated and prioritised by the IDS that spells out India’s force
”
AUGUST 2014
structures and military capability profile over a 15-year period. These recommendations are then discussed by the Defence Acquisition Council headed by the Defence Minister and decisions taken on whether to buy (Indian/global), make (strategic and hitech), buy and make (global) and buy and make (Indian), all under the DPP that was first introduced in 2002. The outcome is then factored into five-year defence plans and, theoretically, form part of the capital acquisition planning of individual Services to address respective modernisation needs on an annual basis. The DPP followed a ministerial review of the 1999 Kargil conflict that severely criticised the MoD’s delays and wasteful expenditure in weapons procurement and modernisation measures. Thereafter, it has undergone several updates, the most recent in mid-2013. Acquisition plans, however, continue to be subjected to two contrary pulls - the Services’ desire to procure the latest weaponry without thought or consideration about fully integrating the systems; and the MoD’s propensity to be guided continually by the DRDO’s misplaced capabilities for indigenous production. The inevitable result is delays and costly acquisitions that eventually end up merely as “product enhancers” for the military but with limited benefit to boost local industry.
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Doubtlessly, all aspects of Indian defence planning remain shrouded in mystery - a complex riddle within a conundrum with little effort on the part of the MoD to demystify itself to the public that finances its operations. The common perception is that it is essentially a question of harnessing resources - financial, technological and human - to create, over time, desired military capabilities which are in concert with national defence and security strategy to protect and enhance national interests. But sadly, India’s force capabilities over several decades have not seen any revolutionary jump in efficiency whilst its military modernisation drive remains mired by either vacillation, lack of funding, prioritisation, corruption scandals or a combination of all these factors. This, in turn, has resulted in an increasing qualitative and technological gap with China’s conventional military capabilities and near symmetrical parity with Pakistan’s. In terms of military modernisation China is speeding ahead and is on the threshold of emerging as a first world technologically savvy army, dramatically changing the nature of threat. Even in the case of Pakistan, the relative military advantage that was in India’s favour both operationally and in equipment, is declining rapidly, and needs a completely overhauled approach.
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DEFENCE BUZZ
AUGUST 2014
DSI
DEFENCE BUZZ An Update on Defence News
ASTRA BVR-AAM missile ASTRA BVR-Air-to-Air Missiles was tested successfully from Su-30MKI by the Indian Air Force from a naval range off Goa.The launch conducted on 20th Jun 2014 from over 6 km altitude was a control and guidance flight which successfully demonstrated interception of an electronically simulated target at long range. Both, the tests conducted on 09th and
India & US to boost defence co-operation With co-development and co-production of Defence products in mind, India and the United States agreed to take the DefenceTechnology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) .This decision was taken at the delegation level talks between the Defence Minister Mr. Arun Jaitley and the visiting US Secretary of Defence Mr. Chuck Hagel, who was on a three day visit to the country. In the meeting, both sides took note of the progress made over the years in deepening defence ties. Both the sides reaffirmed their desire to further enhance bilateral defence cooperation, especially in technology and discussed ways for strengthening this partnership. Stressing on indigenization of the Defence industries, Mr. Jaitley said, “The development of our own indigenous capabilities is a major objective that guides our present policies. In this direction, we have taken steps to raise the FDI cap in the defence sector. We look
forward to work closely with the US in this regard”. The two sides also decided to take steps for the extension of the New Framework for the United States – India Defence relationship, well before it expires in July 2015. Secretary Hagel also laid a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti. He was presented an Inter-Services Guard of Honour in the forecourt of South Block. Mr. Hagel invited Arun Jaitley to visit the Pentagon, the Headquarters of the United States Department of Defence, in October during the latter’s visit to Washington DC to attend the annual meetings of the IMF and the World Bank. Mr. Jaitley has accepted the invitation. Apart from his meeting with Mr. Jaitley, Secretary Hagel also called upon the Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi. Secretary Hagel also met the External Affairs Minister Smt. Sushma Swaraj and National Security Advisor Mr. Ajit Doval.
20th June 2014 respectively demonstrate the aerodynamic characteristics of the missile, repeatability, robustness and endurance capability of Astra BVR-AAM as a weapon system.Dr.VG Sekaran, Director General (MSS) said that “the continuous success of ASTRA development trials is a confirmation of the maturity of DRDO in air-to-air missile design and implementation”
New Vice Chief of Army Staff
Lieutenant General Philip Campose, AVSM,VSM has taken over asVice Chief of Army Staff on 01 Aug 2014 after relinquishing his current appointment of General
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Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Command the previous day. The General Officer, is considered one of the Indian Army’s foremost thinkers and experts on mechanized warfare. Popular with the rank and proactive approach on welfare issues, he has provided dynamic leadership backed by exceptional professional and administrative standards.During the tenure of one year as Army Commander Western Command, the impetus of the General was towards enhancing operational readiness of the Command by promoting best practices based on modern technology.
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th th EDI ED E DIITIO TIIO TI ON
NAVY
Association Support
ARMY
Official Publication
AIR FORCE
Media Partner
PUBLIC SECURITY
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Associated with Organised by
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Southern Command’s first ever pilot induction In a first of its kind, three pilots were awarded ‘wings’ on successful completion of the basic Dornier Conversion Course during an impressive ceremonial parade held on 30 Jul 14 at INS Garuda, the Naval Air Station at Kochi.The ceremony thus witnessed the transition of the young officers into pilots of Indian Navy’s formidable maritime reconnaissance arm. Rear Admiral K Ravikiran, Admiral Superintendent of theYard, NSRY (Kochi) reviewed the parade and awarded the ‘wings’ to passing out officers. Departing from the usual practice of being trained by the IAF, the passing out officers were trained at INAS 550, a premier Air Squadron of INS Garuda. During the 26
week course, the officers were introduced to various aspects of Dornier operations with an aim to enhance their proficiency in Multi Engine flying. LtVivek Mishra was awarded first in overall order of merit and ground subjects whilst Lt DS Koshyari was awarded best in flying. Addressing the parade after presenting the trophies, Rear Admiral K Ravikiran, spoke about the ongoing transformation of Indian Navy in general and the Naval Aviation Arm in particular. He emphasised on the fact that whilst the assets are growing at a fast pace there is a need to nurture the Man behind the Machine with care so as to ensure that the assets are utilised to its full potential.
New Chief of Staff Committee Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha took over as the Chairman, Chief of Staff Committee (COSC) . He received the baton of Chairman, COSC from outgoing Chief of Army Staff,
General Bikram Singh at a brief ceremony in the South Block. Chief of Naval Staff and other senior Principal Staff Officers of all three Services and Integrated Defence Staff were present on the occasion.
IAF receives 6th C-17 Globemaster III aircraft
MKU receives largest body armour contract MKU a leading manufacturer of ballistic protection solutions for personnel and land-air-sea platforms has been awarded a contract for 40,000 Body Armourby the Republic of Ecuadorfor upgrading the protection of its Police Force. MKU had participated in a global tender in Ecuador for the contract. The Body Armour selected by the Ministry of Interior, Ecuador had gone through extensive tests and field trials
before being selected.This Body Armour is tested and certified by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), USA as compliant to their most stringent 0101.06 standard. The contract was awarded to MKU Pvt Ltd., by Minister of Interior of Ecuador Sr. Jose Serrano Salgadoat MKU’s 100% EOU at Kanpur, India. This is the single largest export order received by an Indian company for Body Armour.
The IAF received its Sixth C-17 Globemaster III when it touched down at Palam Airbase on 28 July 2014. Indian government accorded approval to buy 10 C-17 Globemaster III along with associated equipment for the IAF in June 2011. The first of the 10 aircraft touched down in India on 18th June 2013 and the
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delivery of all 10 is expected to be completed by December 2014. This aircraft will enhance the operational potential of the IAF with its payload carriage and performance (about 75 Tones) and would augment the strategic reach (about 4500 Kms) of the nation during Operations, Disaster Relief or any similar mission.
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BrahMos flight-tested from Mobile Autonomous Launcher The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile was successfully flight-tested on 8th July 2014 from the IntegratedTest Range (ITR) Chandipur in Balasore, Odisha. During the launch at 1038 hrs, the missile flew through the designated 290 kms distance at Mach 2.8 and achieved high precision with steep dive once again. Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, CEO and MD, BrahMos Aerospace confirmed that it was a text book launch achieving 100% results, executed with high precision from the Mobile Autonomous Launcher (MAL) prepared by the BrahMos 3rd regiment of Indian Army team. In a historical first, the advanced guidance system
integrating multiple navigation satellites powered with new software algorithm, developed indigenously by Indian scientists and industries
resulted in pinpoint accuracy of the missile system against hidden land targets. This was the 44th launch of BrahMos which was carried
DSI
out with high level of reliability. About 205 Indian industries have come in a big way by significantly contributing their knowhow and expertise in realising the BrahMos weapon system. Indigenous airframe produced by L&T and Godrej, guidance system by HAL, OBC, MIU by Ananth Technologies Ltd., Electronics industries, software development and guidance scheme by DRDO/RCI have been proved in the flight increasing the content from Indian industries. The Army and Navy have already inducted the missile system.The launch of the air-version of BrahMos missile integrated with Su-30MKI will be carried out by the end of this year.
Indo-Sri Lankan maritime cooperation A three member delegation led by the Director General Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) Rear Admiral Ravindra C Wijegunaratne visited India from June 24 to June 28, 2014, for high level meeting, with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).The Indian delegation was led by the Director General Indian Coast GuardVice Admiral Anurag GThapliyal. The visit was in continuation of the various efforts by the governments of the two
Mounted Gun Systems consortium Nexter Systems, Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) andAshok Leyland Defence Systems have signed a consortium agreement to collaborate for the Mounted Gun System (MGS) artillery programme of the IndianArmy. The artillery system proposed for the MGS programme by the consortium led by L&T acting as prime
contractor is a version of the well-known CAESAR速 artillery system fitted onto a 6x6 Super Stallion chassis from Ashok Leyland. Unveiled for the first time at the DEFEXPO show in New Delhi in February 2014, the Indian version of the CAESAR速 was also on display at the Nexter stand at Eurosatory 2014.
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countries towards cooperation between the Indian Coast Guard and Sri Lanka Coast Guard and pursuance of the discussions on maritime issues of mutual concerns to formulate a cooperative approach. The recent visit is providing a fresh impetus to the existing ties between the two organisations as the meeting is being held in the backdrop of the evolving maritime security situation in the region.
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BSF Annual Operational Communications meet Border Security Force organized an Annual Operational Communication Meeting on 25th July 2014 at BSF HQrs, CGO Complex, New Delhi. During the Annual Operational Communication Meeting 2014, An exhibition on latest Electronic Projects fabricated by Border Security Force personnel from all frontiers of BSF also displayed their projects. During the Annual Operational Communication
Meeting 2014, Dr S Pal, President ofThe Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers (India) has given a talk on the topic ‘Communication Perspective and Modern Paradigm’. Shri D K Pathak, IPS, Director General, Border Security Force reviewed all the Electronic Projects fabricated by the BSF personnel which were displayed in the Exhibition.
TASL to manufacture Aerial Refuelling structure Cobham andTata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have agreed thatTASL will manufacture metallic structures for Cobham’s world-leading 5th generation air-to-air refuelling equipment atTASL’s facility in Hyderabad, India. During a rigorous sourcing and selection process,TASL were able to evidence world class capabilities and the capacity to support delivery against Cobham’s requirements. This agreement is further evidence of Cobham’s strategy to grow its market
presence and supply chain in India.The partnership also reinforcesTASL’s continued fast-paced growth towards being a preferred partner to the global Aerospace & Defence industry. As a leader in the aerostructures industry in India,TASL has successfully undertaken complex global transition programs for Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation and has recently announced a new partnership with RUAG Aviation for the Do 228-212 NG structures.
Japan Coast Guard ship Kojima visits India
DRDO’s low cost foot bridges A mountain foot bridge for civil applications developed by R&DE (E), a premier DRDO laboratory The bridge is an adaption of 35 m man-portable ‘Mountain Foot Bridge’ (MFB) developed for the armed forces for bridging dry/wet gaps up to 35 m long, with a pathway of 0.8m width especially for inaccessible high altitude regions. The original bridge, successfully developed and realized by DRDO for the
armed forces to suite rapid deployment in mountainous regions is capable of bridging gaps up to 35 m.The bridge is designed to withstand conditions prevailing in glacial regions. Its man-portable launching system allows bridge to be constructed from near-bank without any access to far-bank. The military bridging system has successfully completed user assisted technical trials in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
The Japan Coast Guard Ship arrived at Kochi on 18 July as a part of its training programme.The ship has a complement of 83 including 39 under trainee officers cadets. The Coast Guard personnel from both countries have interacted to exchange views and methods in the
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field of anti piracy, Search & Rescue (SAR) operations and pollution response. As a part of the bonding/ exchange activities various sports tournament/ cultural tour is also planned by the Indian Coast Guard for the officers, men and cadets of JCG trainees.
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