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The Army Design Bureau (ADB) is spearheading a comprehensive initiative encompassing approximately 350 design and development projects, alongside research and development collaborations involving about 450 industries, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This strategic endeavor, revealed by Army Chief General Manoj Pande on Monday, is projected to incur a total cost of around ?1.8 lakh crore.
General Pande emphasized that this ambitious undertaking signifies a shift towards achieving nearly 100 percent indigenous procurement for the Indian Army, both in the past year and in the foreseeable future. This commitment aligns with the Indian Armys declared observance of 2024 as the "Year of Technology Absorption," reflecting its determination to evolve into a modern force built on domestically produced weapons and systems.
During the annual press conference on January 11, General Pande had previously stated the Indian Armys dedication to showcasing domestically manufactured weapon systems. At the Republic Day parade, examples included the LCH Prachand chopper by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Pinaka rocket launchers, and Nag anti-tank missiles.
General Pande further highlighted the deployment of Made-in-India weapon systems at the western and northern borders, including infantry protected mobility vehicles, drones, and UAVs, enhancing both protection and mobility.
Addressing advancements in technology, the Army Chief disclosed that the Army Design Bureau is in the final stages of Quantum Computing trials. Once implemented, Quantum Computing encryption and technology are expected to enhance secure communication capabilities.
Reflecting on lessons learned from the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, General Pande stressed the imperative for self-reliance and minimizing import dependency. The Army aims to leverage the countrys innovation potential and vibrant startup ecosystem, aligning with a broader strategy to reduce reliance on external sources and foster indigenous capabilities. |
