The Ministry of Defence in India has recently bestowed several innovative defence systems including the Future Infantry Soldier as a System (F-INSAS), Nipun mines, and the Landing Craft Assault (LCA) to the Indian Army. These introductions are part of the Army’s ongoing modernization plans.
Significance of Advanced Defence Systems
Defence systems play a critical role in safeguarding a nation’s borders, protecting its people, and maintaining the sovereignty of the country. Modern defense systems are designed to be lightweight, cost-effective, all-weather-all-terrain, and low-maintenance. The indigenisation of these defense systems is also crucial for the self-reliance of a nation in terms of security.
F-INSAS: Setting the Stage for the Future Infantry Soldier
F-INSAS, an acronym for Future Infantry Soldier as a System, marks a significant leap in infantry modernisation. It aims to expand the operational capability of a soldier by equipping them with advanced and reliable systems. The key items under this system include the AK-203 assault rifle, Multi-Mode Hand Grenade, Ballistic Helmets and Ballistic Goggles, and more. These elements promise enhanced safety, precision, and communication for the soldiers.
Similar systems are found globally, such as Land Warrior in the US and FIST (Future Integrated Soldier Technology) in the UK. More than 20 armies worldwide are opting for such programmes.
‘Nipun’ Mines: The New Anti-Personnel Weapon
Designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Nipun mines serve as ‘soft target blast munition’, primarily targeted against humans. These compact mines can be efficiently deployed in large numbers, acting as a formidable line of defence against infiltrators or enemy infantry.
Land Craft Assault: Reinforcing Naval Capabilities
The Landing Craft Assault (LCA) is a high-capacity and rapid boat intended to replace the boats currently in use at the Pangong Tso lake. With its enhanced launch abilities and speed, it is designed to operate across water obstacles in eastern Ladakh.
Innovative Defence Systems for Enhanced Operations
Some additional significant defence systems include the Solar Photovoltaic Energy Project aimed at meeting power requirements in challenging terrains like the Siachen Glacier. The Defence Ministry has also provided the army with a thermal imaging sight for T-90 tanks, a handheld thermal imager, and a frequency-hopping radio relay for extended-ranged tactical communication.
Downlink Equipment with Recording Facility has been introduced to aid helicopters in surveillance missions. It records reconnaissance data, which can be accessed once the helicopter returns to base. Some other innovative defence systems include Infantry Protected Mobility Vehicles, Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicles, and Mini Remotely Piloted Aerial System surveillance for detection and reconnaissance at the infantry battalion and mechanised units level.
Thus, these advanced systems significantly contribute to India’s overall defence capabilities, driving forward its Army’s modernisation plans while ensuring optimum security and protection for the nation.