Year End Review – 2021

Year End Review – 2021

Mon, 01/03/2022 - 11:25
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Big boost to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ with induction of MBT Arjun Mk-1A in Army, LCA (Tejas) in IAF, ALH Mk-III in Indian Navy and ICG

Women’s empowerment in Armed Forces; Permanent commission allowed to women officers in Army; Induction of women personnel into Corps of Military Police; NDA to induct women cadets; Sainik schools admit girls

Boost to border infrastructure: Around 100 bridges, roads, tunnels constructed by BRO inaugurated in 2021

India commemorates Swarnim Vijay Varsh remembering valour of Indian Armed Forces and Mukti Jodhas

OFB converted into seven new defence companies to provide autonomy, enhance efficiency & unleash new growth potential while safeguarding interests of all stakeholders

Initiative to expand Sainik Schools Infrastructure with 100 more schools to be opened in partnership with NGOs and private entities

NCC inducted one lakh more cadets in 173 border and coastal districts fulfilling the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Key highlights

 

Move towards Atmanirbhar Bharat

 

·         Several major initiatives have been launched during the year to make India self-reliant in the field of Defence manufacturing. Atmanirbharta in Defence is aimed at enhancing domestic manufacturing and making the country a net exporter in this field.

·         ‘Make in India’ and ‘Armanirbhar Bharat’ have been given a major impetus during planning and procurement of equipment for Indian Army, wherein, there is endeavor to support the emerging defence industry in the Country.

·         Induction of LCA (Tejas), Arudhra and Aslesha Radars, Astra Air to Air missile, Akash Surface to Air missile system, Advance Light Helicopter and Light Combat Helicopter etc. systems were added in IAF’s inventory proving IAF’s commitment to the vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’.

·         The MBT ‘Arjun’ Mk-1A was handed over to the Indian Army by Prime Minister on 14 Feb 2021 and Ministry of Defence (MoD) placed an order with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Avadi, Chennai for supply of 118 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for Indian Army on September 23, 2021.

·         Advanced Electronic Warfare System ‘Shakti’, designed and developed by Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL) Hyderabad a laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), was handed over to Indian Navy on 19 Nov 2021 by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

·         Indigenous Aircraft Carrier ‘Vikrant’ successfully accomplished its maiden sea voyage in August 2021. This milestone with few parallels reinforces confidence in the largest indigenously designed platform of Indian Navy and the resolve of countrymen in our quest for ‘Atmanirbahar Bharat’. Commissioning of Vikrant is being targeted by August 15, 2022.  

·         INS Visakhapatnam, first ship of Project 15B, was delivered by Mazagon Dock Limited to Indian Navy on October 28, 2021 at Mumbai and commissioned into IN on November 21, 2021 by the Raksha Mantri.

·         Two sophisticated and potent platforms Karanj and Vela were commissioned on 10 Mar 21 and 25 Nov 21 respectively, with over 75 percentage of Indigenous content, having State-of-the-art weapon fit to strengthen our security apparatus in the Western Seaboard.

·         The forthcoming DefExpo-2022, scheduled to be held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat from 10th to 13th March 2022, is being planned in line with Azadi Ka Amrit   Mahotsav and the wide   expanse   of the   domestic Defence Manufacturing Industry will be co-opted to showcase India @75.

·         Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh handed over five Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed products to the Armed forces and other security agencies at an event held at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi on 14 December 2021, as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations and iconic week of Ministry of Defence.

·         Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh handed over six Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreements to seven public and private sector companies. Products handed over to the Armed Forces & Ministry of Home Affairs include Anti-Drone system, Modular Bridge, Smart Anti Airfield Weapon, Chaff Variants and the Light Weight Fire Fighting Suit.

·         Air version of BrahMos supersonic missile was successfully test fired from supersonic fighter aircraft Sukhoi 30 MK-I on December 8, 2021. BrahMos is a Joint Venture between India (DRDO) and Russia (NPOM) for the development, production and marketing of the supersonic cruise missile.

·         DRDO-developed supersonic missile assisted torpedo system was successfully launched on 13 December 2021.

·         To provide autonomy and enhance efficiency, and unleash new growth potential in Ordnance Factories, the Ordnance Factory Board has been converted into seven new Defence Public Sector Undertakings while safeguarding the interest of all stakeholders. The new Defence PSUs have become operational from 1st October, 2021.

Other key highlights of the year 2021

 

·         Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Defence Office Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi on September 16, 2021. The construction was completed within a record time of 12 months, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

·         Government has approved scheme for setting of Sainik Schools in partnership with NGO's/Private schools/State Governments, etc on affiliation basis. In the first phase, it is proposed to have 100 Sainik Schools with 2-3 Schools from each State/UT.

·         A concerted effort is being made to move forward from a Single Service approach to integrated planning and execution. Towards this, three Joint Doctrines have been formulated in the last one year, while four new joint doctrines namely Capstone, Space, Cyber and Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) are at an advantage stage.

·         Numerous rounds of talks have taken place with the Chinese counterparts to deescalate the situation without compromising on India’s stand of ‘Complete Disengagement and immediate Restoration of status quo ante’.  To this effect, 13 rounds of senior military commanders’ meetings have already been concluded.

·         Inimical elements reenergised their attempts at disrupting peace in the valley by selective targeting of minorities and non-locals, however, proactive measures in the non-kinetic domain and intelligence based kinetic operations by the security forces have been able to counter the nefarious designs of Pakistan sponsored terrorist outfits.

·         The Army has also ensured that the internal situation in the Jammu and Kashmir remained under control. In the year 2021, a total number of 165 terrorists were neutralised by the security forces in which 39 security forces personnel also laid down their lives. The normalcy so brought in by the security forces in year 2021 was amply evident wherein the tourism as well as local employment showed shown positive trend.

·         The Indian Army constantly endeavoured to encourage young sporting talent as part of ‘Mission Olympics’ and the effort paid off with one Gold Medal bagged by Subedar Neeraj Chopra in Tokyo Olympics.

·         The year 2021 witnessed inauguration ceremonies of two new Emergency Landing Facilities. The first was along NH-925A (Gandhav-Bhakasar stretch, Rajasthan) which was inaugurated by the Raksha Mantri on 09 Sep 21. On 16 Nov 21 successful landings were executed by Mirage-2000, C-130J and An-32 aircraft at ELF Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister, Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Air Staff were on board the C-130J aircraft which landed on ELF as part of the inauguration ceremony.

·         Joint Coastal Patrol (JCP) by ICG and Coastal Police for enhancing coastal security, enshrined in the Prime Minister’s Vision Document, was instituted in   Aug 20. Despite challenges posed by COVID-19, enhanced co-ordination and synergy between local Coastal Police personnel and ICG units resulted in timely commencement of JCP on 15 Aug 20. A total of 383 sea sorties, 199 classroom instructions and 985 personnel have been embarked onboard for JCP sorties from 01 January to 16 December 2021.

·         The procurement of 44 Microlight Aircraft Simulators and 60 Rowing Simulators has fructified during the year and delivery and installation is under progress.  The simulators-based training has upgraded the Air Force and Naval Cadets training immensely.

·         Air Marshal VR Chaudhari AVSM VM took over as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) on 30 SEP 2021. An alumnus of NDA, the CAS was commissioned in Dec 82 in the fighter stream of the IAF. He has flown more than 3800 hours on multiple fighter and trainer aircraft.

·         Admiral R Hari Kumar took charge as the new chief of the Indian Navy on November 30, 2021. Kumar assumed charge as the 25th Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) from outgoing Chief Admiral Karambir Singh who retired on superannuation after a career spanning over 41 years in service.

·         The situation of Taliban takeover of Afghanistan posed a unique challenge for the Nation. IAF was called upon to evacuate Indians and some other nationals from Afghanistan. Evacuation activities were undertaken, first from Kandahar, then Mazar-e-Sharif and finally from Kabul. Chaotic situation existed in Kabul as a result of the withdrawal of troops belonging to US and its allies. IAF deployed its C-17 and C-130J aircraft for the evacuation. A C-17 each was utilised for evacuation from Kandahar (10 Jul 21) and Mazar-e-Sharif (10 Aug 21). In addition, five aircraft (four C-17s and one C-130J) were utilised between 15 and 28 Aug 21 to rescue 132 Govt officials, 316 Indian citizens and 126 persons of other nationalities.  

·         The country lost its first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, his wife and 12 other personnel of the Armed Forces in a helicopter crash at Coonoor district in Tamil Nadu on December 08, 2021. They served the Nation with utmost diligence. General Bipin Rawat was an outstanding soldier. A true patriot, he greatly contributed to modernising the Armed Forces and security apparatus. As India’s first CDS, General Bipin Rawat worked on diverse aspects relating to the Armed Forces, including defence reforms.

Strengthening border infrastructure

   A major thrust area of MoD in the border areas has been to enhance road and transport infrastructure aimed at strengthening defence preparedness as well as supporting local economic development in these areas.

·         On 28 June 2021, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated 75 Projects of Roads and Bridges constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in six States and two Union Territories (UTs).

·         BRO constructed road over Umling La Pass, in Eastern Ladakh, at 19,024 ft above sea level has now officially become highest motorable road in the world. Road was inaugurated virtually by Raksha Mantri on Dec 28, 2021.

·         Raksha Mantri dedicated to the Nation 24 bridges and three roads, built by BRO in four States and two Union Territories, on December 28, 2021. Of the 24 bridges, nine are in Jammu & Kashmir; five each in Ladakh & Himachal Pradesh; three in Uttarakhand and one each in Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh. Of the three roads, two are in Ladakh.

Department of Military affairs

Appointment of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and creation of Department of Military Affairs (DMA) remains the most significant and transformative defence reform undertaken by any Government since Independence.

 

Under DMA, the Logistics structure is being fully revamped to make it more efficient. In this regard, three Joint Services Study Groups (JSSG) are developing common logistic policies for services that will enhance all supply chain functions such as planning, procurement, inventory-maintenance, distribution, disposal and documentation. A pilot project based on the establishment of Joint Logistic Nodes (JLN) each at Mumbai, Guwahati and Port Blair has already rolled off.

           A concerted effort is being made to move forward from a Single Service approach to integrated planning and execution. Towards this, three Joint Doctrines have been formulated in the last one year, while four new joint doctrines namely Capstone, Space, Cyber and Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) are at an advantage stage.

           In order to enhance Combat Capability and balance defence expenditure, more than 270 logistic installations of the Indian Army have been closed or scaled down, resulting in substantial savings to the exchequer, besides increasing the "Teeth to Tail" ratio. A holistic review of the training methodology is also underway to modernise, integrate and rationalise training as also ensure optimal utilisation of infrastructure and resources. Ten subjects have been fixed for conducting joint training among the three services.  Of these, joint training has already started in Five areas.

           Keeping in mind the goal of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Department of Military Affairs, Ministry of Defence released the first Positive Indigenisation List of 101 items in August 2020 and the Second Positive Indigenisation List comprising of 108 items on 31 May 2021. These selected items will only be procured from domestic industry. These lists comprising major combat platforms, advanced weapon systems, armament and ammunition to make India self-reliant in Defence Sector. These lists besides signalling nation’s resolve to cut down import of defence hardware, are also a recognition of the growing capability of domestic industry in defence manufacturing, built over the last six years based on a number of transformational steps initiated by the Government.

·                    The work of establishing Theatre/Joint Commands is also progressing swiftly. The Study group reports have been analysed and implementation Roadmap is under deliberation.

·                    A ‘Tri–Services Joint working Group’ has also been setup to study and work out the nuances of integrating Communication Networks between the Services.

·                    A review is being done to right size/reshape the units of the Army.

Major achievements by DPSUs

 

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas programme received a major boost with clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on 13th January 2021 for procurement of 'improved’ Tejas fighters and trainers from HAL.  This will enhance the capabilities of domestic defence production sector. The total contract value of the LCA MK1A contract received by HAL from MoD is Rs 36468.63 crore.

 Prime Minister dedicated the Arjun Main Battle Tank (MK-1A) with world-class capabilities to the Indian Army on 14th February 2021 in a function at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai.

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)'s Submarine 'Karanj' was commissioned on 10th March 2021.

INS Visakhapatnam (Destroyer) of MDL was delivered on 28th Oct 2021 and Commissioned into Navy on 21st November 2021 by the Raksha Mantri.

INS Vela (Submarine) of MDL was delivered on 09th November 2021 and commissioned into Indian Navy on 25th November 2021.

The Prime Minister handed over 'SCG PS Zoroaster', a Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE), to Seychelles Coast Guard on 8th April 2021. The handing over ceremony was conducted in virtual mode.

BEML successfully commissioned & handed over largest indigenous 190 Ton electric drive Dump Truck to NCL, Singrauli on May 11, 2021.

Modernisation of the Army

 

          Modernisation of the Army is progressing at a faster pace especially facilitated by the emergency procurement powers granted to the three Services. The focus of Indian Army is equally on platforms and capabilities. AKASH System, Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missiles (QRSAM), Main Battle Tank Arjun, BrahMos Missiles system, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) helicopters are fine examples of Indian industry’s indigenously designed Hi-Tech and modern equipment. A total of 62 contracts valued at Rs 93,253 crore were signed during the last 3-4 years. In addition to the contracts concluded, currently 94 schemes valued at Rs 1,52,387 crores are at various stages of the procurement process. Out of these, 15 schemes valued at Rs 30,768 crores are at advance stages, wherein final sanction by the competent authorities is awaited. Thirty-five fresh Acceptance of Necessity (AoNs) of a total value of Rs 32,609/- crore have been obtained in the last one year, for initiation of fresh procurement cases, are in addition to contracts carried forwarded from previous years.

The Indian Army has prioritised its procurement from Indian industry and is handholding numerous indigenisation projects right from design & development stage till the final trials stage. Several endeavours have been undertaken by the Indian Army to boost self-reliance in defence sector. In the current financial year till date, out of 20 AoNs, 19 are ‘Buy Indian’. Further, out of 19 contracts signed, 13 are indigenous worth Rs 33,871 crore. The Indian Army has also taken significant steps on leveraging Artificial Intelligence, 5G, Quantum technology to gain an edge over adversaries and for better management of its forces.

Indian Navy

Maiden Sea Trials of IAC1

 

Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant’ successfully accomplished its maiden sea voyage in August 2021. This land mark milestone with few parallels reinforces confidence in the largest indigenously designed platform of Indian Navy and the resolve of countrymen in our quest for ‘Atma Nirbahar Bharat’. Commissioning of Vikrant is being targeted by August 15, 2022.  

 

Commissioning of Visakhapatnam

 

Visakhapatnam, the first ship of Project 15B, was delivered by Mazagon Dock Limited to the IN on October 28, 2021 at Mumbai and commissioned into IN on November 21, 2021 by Shri Rajnath Singh, Raksha Mantri.

 

Commissioning of Submarines

 

Two sophisticated and potent platforms Karanj and Vela were commissioned on 10 Mar 21 and 25 Nov 21 respectively, with over 75 percentage of Indigenous content, having State-of-the-art weapon fit to strengthen our security apparatus in the Western Seaboard.

 

Commissioning of IN  LCUs L58 (Yard 2099)

 

IN  LCU L58 was commissioned at Port Blair on March 31, 2021, by Lt Gen Manoj Pande, Commander-in-Chief, A&N Command. The ship is the last vessel in the series of eight LCU MK IV ships constructed by GRSE, Kolkata. 

 

Commissioning of INAS 323

 

First ALH Mk III Squadron was commissioned at INS Hansa as INAS 323 on April 19, 2021, by Shri Shripad Yasso Naik, Raksha Rajya Mantri.

Induction of Advanced Light Helicopter

 

A new Flight comprising two Advanced Light Helicopters were inducted at INS Shikra on October 29, 2021.

 


Launching Ceremony of 7th Ship, Tushil

 

The ‘Launching Ceremony’ of 7th ship Tushil was held on October 28, 2021 at Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad, Russia, in the presence of Ambassador of the Republic of India to the Russian Federation and a delegation from IHQ MoD(N).

 

Decommissioning

 

Following IN ships were decommissioned in 2021:

 

Ser

Ship

Type of Ship

Date of Decommissioning

(a) 

IN FAC T81

Fast Attack Craft

28 Jan 21

(b) 

Rajput

Destroyer

21 May 21

(c) 

Sandhayak

Survey Ship

04 Jun 21

(d) 

IN FAC T 80

Fast Attack Craft

07 Oct 21

(e) 

Khukri

Missile Corvette

23 Dec 21

Indian Air Force

Eastern Ladakh

 

During the Eastern Ladakh contingency IAF moved its sensors, aerial platforms and associate equipment to the region to deal with any and every situation. The limitations and challenges posed by the terrain and weather were addressed with suitable adaptation and preparation. The IAF also provided the Indian Army with logistics and air maintenance support. The requirements of IAF and IA in terms of ISR were also effectively met.

 

Modernisation

 

The IAF added not only aircraft to its arsenal but also various Air Defence Systems and information technology systems. While doing this, it did not lose sight of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. Induction of LCA (Tejas), Arudhra and Aslesha Radars, Astra Air to Air missile, Akash Surface to Air missile system, Advance Light Helicopter and Light Combat Helicopter are a testimony of IAF’s commitment to this vision. These systems were added in IAF’s inventory. In order to synergize efforts for make in India, IAF has set up a dedicated Make PMU (Project Management Unit) which would act as an umbrella for ensuring that the projects come to rapid fruition.  First Firing Unit of MRSAM was formally inducted into IAF on 09 Sep 21 at AF Stn Jaisalmer by Raksha mantri Shri Rajnath Singh.

The year 2021 saw the total number of Rafale aircraft go up to 30. 19 Low Level Transportable Radars (LTTR) have also been supplied to IAF wherein BEL benefitted through the Transfer of Technology (ToT) as well.

A contract after approval of CCS was signed to pave way for induction of C-295 transport aircraft. IAF would be inducting 56 of these aircraft as replacement for its Avro fleet. Procurement of a Full Motion Simulator (FMS) for the C-295s is also included as a part of the contract. The year also saw the transfer of ownership, operations and maintenance of the two B777-300 ER aircraft from Air India to IAF for the purpose of VVIP operations.

 

Emergency Landing Facilities (ELFs)

 

          The year 2021 witnessed inauguration ceremonies of two new ELFs. The first was along NH-925A (Gandhav-Bhakasar stretch, Rajasthan) which was inaugurated by the Raksha Mantri on 09 Sep 21. On 16 Nov 21 successful landings were executed by Mirage-2000, C-130J and An-32 aircraft at ELF Sultanpur in Uttar Pradesh. Prime Minister , Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Air Staff were on board the C-130J aircraft which landed on the ELF as part of the inauguration ceremony.

Defence Research and Development Organisation

 

Handing over & Supply order of Main Battle Tank Arjun Mk-1A

 

The MBT Arjun Mk-1A is incorporated with many versatile and improved features over Mk-1, which makes it much more superior battle tank. Crew comfort, advanced land navigation system and enhanced night vision capabilities for both tank commander and driver are some of the progressions. It is a highly potent and dependable war-fighting machine.

The MBT ‘Arjun’ Mk-1A was handed over to the Indian Army by Prime Minister on 14 Feb 2021 and Ministry of Defence (MoD) placed an order with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Avadi, Chennai for supply of 118 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for the Indian Army on September 23, 2021. The order, worth Rs 7,523 crore, will provide further boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in defence sector and is a big step towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. 

 

DRDO Designed and Developed Advanced Electronic Warfare Suite ‘Shakti’ handed over to Indian Navy

 

Advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) System ‘Shakti’ has been designed and developed by Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL) Hyderabad a laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for Capital Warships of the Indian Navy for the interception, detection, classification, identification and jamming of conventional and modern Radars. The Shakti EW system will provide an electronic layer of defence against modern radars and anti-ship missiles to ensure electronic dominance and survivability in the maritime battlefield. This system will replace the earlier generation EW Systems of the Indian Navy. This system was handed over to Indian Navy on 19 Nov 2021 by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

DRDO Handed over Air Defence Missile System to Indian Air Force

 

The MRSAM (IAF) is an advanced network centric combat Air Defence System developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in collaboration with the Indian industry comprising of private and public sectors including MSMEs. In a significant boost to India’s defence capabilities, the first deliverable Firing Unit (FU) of Medium Range Surface to Air Missile System was handed over to IAF on September 09, 2021 in the presence of Raksha Mantri.

 

Handing over of DRDO developed products to Armed Forces

 

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh handed over five Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed products to the Armed forces and other security agencies at an event held at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi on 14 December 2021, as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations and iconic week of Ministry of Defence.

He also handed over six Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreements to seven public and private sector companies. Earlier DRDO organised a Seminar on “Preparing for The Future” where Vice Chiefs of the Armed Forces and DRDO Scientists shared their views. Products handed over to the Armed Forces & Ministry of Home Affairs are Anti-Drone system, Modular Bridge, Smart Anti Airfield Weapon, Chaff Variants and the Light Weight Fire Fighting Suit. 

Advanced Chaff Technology

 

Advanced Chaff Technology has been developed by DRDO to safeguard the naval ships as well as fighter aircrafts of Indian Air Force (IAF) against hostile radar threats and enemy missile attack. DRDO’s Defence Laboratory Jodhpur, has developed the advanced Chaff material and chaff cartridge-118/I in collaboration with High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), a Pune based laboratory of DRDO, meeting qualitative requirements of forces.  Chaff is a passive expendable electronic countermeasure technology used worldwide to protect naval ship from enemy’s radar and radio frequency (RF) missile seekers. Successful development of Advanced Chaff Technology is another step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat.

 

Production lot of 12 Short Span Bridging System (SSBS)-10 m inducted into Indian Army

 

The SSBS-10 m plays a crucial role of bridging the gaps as a single span providing a wide, fully decked roadway, ensuring faster movement of the troops. This bridging system is compatible with Sarvatra Bridging System. The system will help in quick movement of troops and enhance the mobilization of resources.

 

Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR)

 

Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet has been developed and flight tested by DRDO. During the test, air launch scenario was simulated using a booster motor. Subsequently, nozzle-less booster accelerated it to required Mach number for Ramjet operation. Success of SFDR propulsion technology is a significant milestone which paves way for development of long-range air-to-air missiles in the country.

 

Maiden launch of New Generation Agni P Ballistic Missile

 

New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni P was successfully flight tested. Agni P is a new generation advanced variant of Agni class of missiles.

 

Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System

 

DRDO developed a full-scale Land-Based Prototype (LBP) for demonstration of Hydrogen Fuel cell-based AIP System, which when inducted by the Indian Navy would enhance the underwater endurance of conventional submarines. The indigenous system successfully completed 14 days of Endurance Trials. While there are different types of AIP systems being pursued internationally, fuel cell based AIP of DRDO is unique as the hydrogen is generated onboard.

 

Long Range Surface to Air Missiles (LRSAM)

 

LRSAM system has been jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Israel to strengthen air defence capabilities of Indian Navy. The Missile system can provide point and area defence against various aerial targets including fighter aircraft, subsonic & supersonic cruise missiles. It is designed with active Radio Frequency (RF) seeker to identify, track, engage and destroy the target with high kill probability.  Final production batch of LRSAM was flagged off completing the delivery within the given timeline.

 

ATGMs Helina (Army Version) and Dhruvastra (Air Force Version)

 

Helina and Dhruvastra are third generation, Lock On Before Launch (LOBL) fire and forget Anti-Tank Guided Missiles that can engage targets both in direct hit mode as well as top attack mode. The system has all-weather day and night capability and can defeat battle tanks with conventional armour as well as with explosive reactive armour. It is one of the most-advanced anti-tank weapon in the world.

 

Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM)

 

In a major boost towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and strengthening of Indian Army, DRDO flight-tested the indigenously developed low weight, fire and forget Man Portable Antitank Guided Missile (MPATGM). The missile incorporates state-of-the-art Miniaturized Infrared Imaging Seeker along with advanced avionics.
 

 

Vertical Launch of Short-Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM)

 

The missile has been developed for the Indian Navy for neutralizing various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets. Two vertical launches of the missile were carried out and on both the occasions, VL-SRSAM intercepted the simulated targets with pinpoint accuracy. The missiles were tested for minimum and maximum ranges.

 

 

New Generation Akash Missile (Akash-NG)

 

The successful flight trial of New Generation Surface to Air Akash-NG Missile was conducted from a land-based platform with all weapon system elements such as Multifunction Radar, Command, Control & Communication System and launcher participating in deployment configuration. The missile successfully demonstrated high manoeuvrability required for neutralising fast and agile aerial threats. Akash-NG weapon system will prove to be a force multiplier for the air defence capability of the Indian Air Force. 

Maiden Flight Test of Akash Prime Missile

 

A new version of the Akash Missile – ‘Akash Prime’ was successfully flight tested. In comparison to the existing Akash System, Akash Prime is equipped with an indigenous active Radio Frequency (RF) seeker for improved accuracy.

 

          Flight Test of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile

 

Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile was successfully flight tested on 07 Dec 2021.  The launch was conducted from a vertical launcher against an electronic target at a very low altitude. The launch of the system was conducted to validate integrated operation of all weapon system components including the vertical launcher unit with controller, canisterised flight vehicle, weapon control system etc. required for future launches of the missile from Indian Naval Ships. The first trial was conducted on 22 February 2021 and this is confirmatory trial to prove the consistent performance of the configuration and integrated operation. 

Air version of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile

 

Air version of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile was successfully test fired from the supersonic fighter aircraft Sukhoi 30 MK-I on 08 December 2021. BrahMos is a Joint Venture between India (DRDO) and Russia (NPOM) for the development, production and marketing of the supersonic cruise missile. The launch is a major milestone in the BrahMos development. It clears the system for the serial production of air-version BrahMos missiles within the country.

 

Successful tests carried out for Pinaka Extended Range System, Area Denial Munitions & New Indigenous Fuzes

 

Successful tests of Pinaka Extended Range (Pinaka-ER), Area Denial Munitions (ADM) and indigenously developed fuzes have been carried out at various test ranges. The Pinaka-ER Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher System was successfully tested. The system is jointly designed by laboratories of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) - Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune.

 

DRDO & Indian Air Force successfully flight-test indigenous Stand-Off Anti-Tank Missile

 

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Air Force (IAF) flight-tested the indigenously designed and developed Helicopter launched Stand-off Anti-tank (SANT) Missile on 11 December 2021. The missile is equipped with a state-of-the-art MMW seeker which provides high precision strike capability from a safe distance. The weapon can neutralise targets in a range up to 10 kms. The SANT missile has been designed and developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad in coordination with other DRDO labs and participation from industries.

 

          Supersonic missile assisted torpedo system

 

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed supersonic missile assisted torpedo system was successfully launched on 13 December 2021. The system is a next generation missile-based standoff torpedo delivery system. The system has been designed to enhance anti-submarine warfare capability far beyond the conventional range of the torpedo. 

 

          Enhanced Range 122mm Caliber Rocket

 

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully test fired enhanced range versions of indigenously developed 122mm Caliber Rocket from a Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) on 25 June 2021. These rockets have been developed for Army applications and can destroy targets up to 40 km.  The rocket systems have been developed jointly by Pune-based Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) with manufacturing support from  Economic Explosives Limited, Nagpur.

 

Flight Tests of Indigenously-Developed Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon

 

Two flight tests of indigenously-developed smart anti-airfield weapon have been carried out jointly by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Air Force (IAF). The two different configurations based on satellite navigation and electro optical sensors have been successfully tested. Electro optical seeker based flight test of this class of bomb has been conducted for the first time in the country. The electro optic sensor has been developed indigenously. The weapon was launched by an IAF aircraft. 

Flight Trials of ABHYAS -High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT)

 

ABHYAS is an expendable high-speed unmanned aerial target, being developed by DRDO. The configuration of ABHYAS is designed on an in-line small gas turbine engine and uses an indigenously developed MEMS based navigation system for its navigation and guidance. Three successful flight trials of ABHYAS were conducted from ITR Balasore, Odisha. During the test campaign, the user requirements were successfully achieved. The vehicle can be used as the target for the evaluation of various missile systems.

 

First indigenous 9mm Machine Pistol jointly developed by DRDO and Indian Army.

 

Infantry School, Mhow and DRDO’s Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune jointly designed and developed the 9 mm Machine Pistol in record time of four months. The weapon has huge potential as personal weapon for heavy weapon detachments, commanders’ tanks and aircraft crews, drivers/dispatch riders, radio/radar operators, closed quarter battle, counterinsurgency and counter terrorism operations etc. The weapon is named “Asmi” meaning “Pride”, “Self-Respect” and “Hard Work”.                                                               

 

Light Weight Bullet Proof Jacket

 

To make the soldiers more comfortable, light weight Bullet Proof Jacket (BPJ) weighing 9.0 kilogram, has been developed for the India Army. The importance of this vital development lies in the fact that each gram of BPJ weight reduction is crucial in enhancing soldier comfort while ensuring the survivability. This technology reduces the weight of the medium sized BPJ from 10.4 to 9.0 kg.                                                                                       

 

Single Crystal Blades Technology

 

Helicopters used in defence applications need compact and powerful aero-engines for their reliable operation at extreme conditions. To achieve this, state-of-the-art Single Crystal Blades having complex shape and geometry, manufactured out of Nickel based super alloys capable of withstanding high temperatures of operation are used. DRDO developed single crystal blades technology and supplied 60 of these blades to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Very few countries in the world such as USA, UK, France and Russia have the capability to design and manufacture such Single Crystal (SX) components.

 

CRPF Uses Casualty Transport Bike “Rakshita”

 

Rakshita, a bike-based casualty transport emergency vehicle was handed over to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The bike ambulance will help in overcoming the problems faced by Indian security forces and emergency healthcare providers. Rakshita is fitted with a customized reclining Casualty Evacuation Seat (CES), which can be fitted in and taken out as per requirement, a head immobilizer, safety harness jacket, hand and foot straps for safety, adjustable foot rest, physiological parameter measuring equipment with wireless monitoring capability and auto warning system for driver.

 

Bilateral Innovation Agreement between DRDO & Directorate of Defence R&D, Israel

 

As a tangible demonstration of the growing Indo–Israeli technological cooperation, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D), Ministry of Defence, Israel have entered into a Bilateral Innovation Agreement (BIA) to promote innovation and accelerated R&D in startups and MSMEs of both countries for the development of dual use technologies and products in the areas such as Drones, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum technology, Photonics, Biosensing, Brain-Machine Interface, Energy Storage, Wearable Devices, Natural Language Processing, etc.

 

DRDO signed framework MoU with MoRTH for Geo-hazard Management

 

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has entered into a framework memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) to strengthen collaboration in the field of technical exchange and co-operation on sustainable geohazard management. The MoU was signed between Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary DDR&D & Chairman DRDO and Shri Giridhar Aramane Secretary MoRTH. As per the agreement, DRDO and MoRTH will co-operate in various mutually beneficial areas related to geohazard management. The initiative will ensure safety against the adverse effects of landslides and other natural calamities on national highways in the country.  

 

DRDO Skill Development Centre for Fire Safety Training

 

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at Pilkhuwa in Uttar Pradesh through virtual mode on 22 February 2021. The facility, created by Delhi based DRDO laboratory Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment Safety (CFEES); is aimed at developing trained human resources, fire safety technology and products to save precious human lives and valued assets. DRDO facility would be utilised for imparting fire prevention and fire-fighting training to the Fire Service personnel of Indian Armed Forces, DRDO, Ordnance Factories, Coast Guard and defence undertakings. In addition, trainees from Bhutan,
Sri Lanka and other neighbouring countries would also be imparted training at the Centre.

 

DRDO Dare to Dream 2.0 Awards & launch of Dare to Dream 3.0

 

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh felicitated the winners of ‘Dare to Dream 2.0’ Contest of Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and gave away awards to 40 winners - 22 in Individual category and 18 in Startup category. He also launched ‘Dare to Dream 3.0’ to promote innovators & startups and provide a platform for the young ignited minds in the country.

Dare to Dream is DRDO's pan-India contest to promote Indian academicians, individuals and startups to develop emerging defence and aerospace technologies/systems. DRDO provides technical and financial support to the winners for realisation of their ideas under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme.

 

Three products/systems indigenously developed by DRDO were also handed over to the Armed Forces

 

·ARINC818 Video Processing and Switching Module: The module, developed for the Indian Air Force, was handed over to the Vice Chief of Air Staff. It is a state-of-the-art module with high bandwidth, low latency, channel bonding, easy networking and will cater to 5th generation aircraft development programmes.

·Sonar Performance Modelling System: Developed for the Indian Navy, the system was handed over to Vice Chief of Naval Staff. It is useful for Indian Naval ships, submarines and under water surveillance stations etc.

·Bund Blasting Device Mk-II: The device, developed for Indian Army, was handed over to the Vice Chief of Army Staff. It is used to reduce the height of Ditch-cum-Bund obstacles to enhance the mobility of mechanised infantry during wartime.

Greater linkages between DRDO and academia

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also exchanged between Prof HA Pandya, Vice Chancellor, Gujarat University and Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy for establishing an Advanced Technology Centre ‘Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Centre for Cyber-Security Research’ at Gujarat University for conducting directed research in cyber security.

Several initiatives have been undertaken by the Services towards empowering Women in Services. Permanent Commission of women officers has been implemented in the Armed Forces.

           Some other key initiatives include:

·                Induction of 10 women officers into the fighter stream of the Air Force.

·                Appointment of women officers onboard ships.

·                Streaming of Women officers into Seaking (Observer) and RPA streams of Navy.

·                Appointment of women officers in Missions abroad.

·                Induction of women personnel into the Corps of Military Police.