The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made headlines recently for passing on indigenous Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) technology to five Indian companies. This follows the successful maiden flight test of a new indigenously developed surface-to-surface missile named ‘Pralay’.
Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS)
The ECWCS is an ergonomically designed modular technical clothing system intended to provide comfort and warmth in different climatic conditions, particularly those experienced in the Himalayan regions during varying degrees of physical activity. It offers enhanced thermal insulation still ensuring physiological comfort, particularly necessary for operations at higher altitudes.
Adopting physiological concepts, the ECWCS focuses on the reduction of respiratory heat and water loss which occurs during extreme cold temperatures. It also offers unhindered range of motion and swift moisture absorption to keep the wearer dry. Additionally, providing waterproof and windproof features, it takes care of breathability aspect as well. The system provides enhanced insulation and strength features too for use in demanding high altitude operations. It has been designed to offer thermal insulation over a vast temperature range of +15 to -50 degrees Celsius with different combinations of layers and intensity of physical work.
Significance of ECWCS
The ECWCS is a much-needed asset for the Indian Army, whose operations in the glacier and Himalayan peaks necessitate such advanced gear. Until now, the Indian Army was reliant on imports for their extreme cold weather clothing and several Special Clothing and Mountaineering Equipment (SCME) items for the troops deployed in high-altitude regions. The indigenous ECWCS offers fewer combinations to meet the necessary insulation for the prevailing climatic conditions and hence stands as a practical import alternative for the Indian Army.
About Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
The DRDO came into existence in 1958, after merging the Technical Development Establishment (TDEs) of the Indian Army and the Directorate of Technical Development & Production (DTDP) with the Defence Science Organisation (DSO). The organisation operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence. The primary aim of the DRDO is to set up a world-class science and technology base for India. It holds the responsibility of providing our Defence Services with state-of-the-art systems and solutions, giving them a decisive edge on the international stage.
The source of this information is HT.