The Defence Minister recently introduced the Enhanced Collaborative Autonomous Rover System (ECARS) at the North Tech Symposium. Developed by Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd in Pune, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, ECARS is a cutting-edge 4×4 unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). It boasts an enhanced collision avoidance system, advanced mission planning capabilities, and a speed range of 16 to 20 kilometers per hour. With a payload capacity of 350 Kg and the ability to tow 500 Kg, ECARS is versatile and compatible with various systems, including Remote Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS). Its applications span from border surveillance to firefighting and CBRN incident response.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd: Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd, based in Pune, is a fully-owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge and is responsible for the development of the ECARS UGV.
- Remote Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS): RCWS refers to a technology that allows for the remote operation of weapons, enhancing military capabilities while keeping operators at a safer distance from combat zones.
- CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear): CBRN incidents involve the release of harmful chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear agents. ECARS is equipped to handle such scenarios.
- North Tech Symposium 2023: The North Tech Symposium is a collaborative event organized by the Indian Army’s Northern Command, the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), and IIT-Jammu. It serves as a platform for exhibitions, product launches, technical seminars, and military equipment displays, fostering innovation and ideas in the defense sector.