Defence Minister Rajnath Singh handed over to the Army a wide range of indigenous military equipment including unmanned aerial systems and quick reaction fighting vehicles to crank up its combat capabilities in eastern Ladakh in the backdrop of the prolonged border face-off with China.

The other key equipment that the Army received included surveillance hardware, patrolling boats, ‘Future Infantry Soldier as a System’, a new anti-personnel mine ‘Nipun’, infantry protected mobility vehicles, rugged and automatic communication system, upgraded sights system for tanks and advanced thermal imagers.

The equipment/systems have been jointly developed by the Indian Army in collaboration with Defence Public Sector Undertakings, Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the industry.

Future Infantry Soldier as a System

Future Infantry Soldier (F-INSAS) is equipped with three primary sub-systems. The first sub system is the modern state of art assault rifle along with day and night holographic and reflex sights. The sights are mounted on the weapon and also on helmet to enable a 360-degree visibility and accuracy in operational conditions. In addition to the primary weapon system, the soldiers will also be kitted with multi-mode hand grenade along with multi-purpose knife.

The second sub system is protection system. This gives protection through a specially designed helmet and a bullet proof jacket. The third sub system consists of communication and surveillance system. This F-INSAS system is capable of further upgradation by incorporating real time data connectivity.

Anti-Personnel mine ‘Nipun’

For a long time, the Indian Army has been using vintage NMM 14 mines. The new mine ‘Nipun’ has been developed and it will enhance the protection provided to the troops on the borders. The mine is more potent and effective than the existing anti-personnel mine.

Hand Held Thermal Imager (Uncooled)

This equipment is for surveillance and detection. It gives visibility in both day and night and in adverse weather conditions to the soldiers to detect enemy movement and activities.

Commander Thermal Imaging Sight for T-90 tank

This equipment gives enhanced visibility and range to the commanders of armoured columns. Earlier, in T-90 tanks had image intensification systems which had its own limitations and constraints. The limitations have been overcome by use of thermal imaging sight.

Downlink Equipment with Recording Facility

This downlink equipment helps the helicopters in carrying out constant reconnaissance and surveillance of the borders and operational areas. While on missions, reconnaissance data observed is recorded in the system and can be accessed only when the helicopter returns to the base. The equipment is fitted on the Advanced Light Helicopter.

Semi Ruggedised Automatic Exchange System Mk-II

Indian Army had exchanges that provided line communications to the operationally deployed units. However, there were limitations in terms of numbers of subscribers and quantum of data that could be communicated. Also, the equipment could not work with the latest internet protocol technology. A new system has been developed which overcomes all inadequacies of the older system.

Upgraded Radio Relay (Frequency Hopping)

In challenging forward areas, where no lines or other forms of communication are available, the Indian Army has to extend its communication system. With this radio relay system, forward troops are in a position to operate their communication equipment and radio sets at much longer ranges and in greater depths. This is an advanced system with frequency hopping technology and very high capacity.

Solar Photovoltaic Energy Project

One of the most challenging terrain and operational sectors of the country is the Siachen Glacier. The complete power requirement in the area to operate various equipment was met only through captive generator supply. A solar photo-voltaic plant has been installed at Partapur to improve the overall energy requirements and also obviate dependence on fossil fuels. 

Landing Craft Assault (LCA)

There are boats operating in Pangong Tso lake, however, they have limited capabilities. The 134-km-long lake at an altitude of 13,900-feet is considered strategically significant. China controls around two-thirds of the lake. Last year, the Army had ordered 12 LCA boats to strengthen its existing fleets of vessels. The LCA is much more versatile and has overcome the limitations of launch, speed and capacity. It has enhanced the capability to operate across the water obstacles in eastern Ladakh.

Mini Remotely Piloted Aerial System (RPAS)

RPAS removes the operational limitations faced by the Indian Air Force aircraft and the heron Unmanned Aerial Vehicles at tactical level. It empowers the Indian Army by removing the restricted capability for surveillance, detection and reconnaissance at the infantry battalion and mechanised units level.

Infantry Protected Mobility Vehicle (IPMV)

IPMV provides mobility and more protection to a large number of infantry soldiers posted at the northern borders.

Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicle (Medium)

The second vehicle along with the Infantry Mobility Protected Vehicle for enhanced mobility of our troops in eastern Ladakh is the Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicle (medium). It facilitates quick deployment of troops and will enable much faster reaction. These are tailor made vehicles with high mobility, enhanced firepower and protection. 

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