As India celebrates Navy Day 2024, there is a prominent focus on the Indian Navy’s evolution into a modern, technology-driven force, with a significant emphasis on the integration of unmanned systems into its operations. This shift not only reflects the Navy’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency but also aligns with India’s broader objectives of achieving technological self-reliance and asserting its maritime dominance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and beyond.

The maritime domain is increasingly becoming characterized by a range of asymmetric threats and geopolitical tensions, including piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism. These challenges necessitate advanced tools that can offer flexibility, precision, and resilience. Unmanned systems, which include Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), have emerged as critical force multipliers in addressing these evolving threats.

The Indian Navy has been at the forefront of deploying UAVs for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Notable platforms such as the Israeli-origin Heron and Searcher Mk II have significantly bolstered the Navy’s maritime situational awareness, equipped with advanced imaging systems and sensors that deliver real-time intelligence across vast oceanic expanses. Recently, the leasing of two MQ-9A SeaGuardian drones from the United States further enhances these capabilities, allowing the Navy to monitor an extensive area of over 14 million square miles and respond swiftly to potential threats.

In an effort to expand its unmanned aerial capabilities, the Navy has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for Naval Shipborne Unmanned Aerial Systems (NSUAS), aiming to introduce specialized drones that can operate from warships. These systems are expected to play critical roles in anti-piracy operations, coastal security, and search-and-rescue missions.

The introduction of USVs marks a significant evolution in surface operations. The Matangi, an indigenous autonomous surface vessel, is capable of autonomous travel over 1,500 kilometers and can be utilized for both ISR and combat roles. These platforms promise strategic advantages by enabling sustained surveillance over extensive maritime domains, reducing the costs associated with manned missions, and maintaining effectiveness in hostile environments.

In the underwater domain, the Indian Navy is making strides with large UUVs that can weigh around 100 tonnes, armed with advanced combat systems. These unmanned platforms enhance the Navy’s capability to monitor deep-sea areas, detect mines, and conduct covert operations, thanks to their stealth features that are invaluable for intelligence gathering in contested waters.

The strategic advantages of integrating unmanned platforms into naval operations are numerous. They provide enhanced maritime domain awareness, facilitating comprehensive coverage of vast maritime regions crucial for monitoring foreign naval activities. These systems are also cost-efficient compared to traditional warships and submarines, allowing the Indian Navy to maximize its operational output within budgetary constraints. Moreover, the deployment of unmanned systems for high-risk missions mitigates the potential for human casualties, preserving the workforce’s safety.

Despite the transformative potential of unmanned systems, their integration into the Navy’s existing framework poses several challenges. The reliance on foreign technology for crucial components, such as AI algorithms, sensors, and propulsion systems presents a dependence that India aims to bridge through indigenous innovation. Furthermore, the cybersecurity risks associated with heavily communication-dependent systems require robust measures to ensure operational integrity.

The complexity of integrating unmanned systems into the naval fleet also demands advanced combat management systems capable of processing data from multiple sources and translating it into actionable intelligence in real-time. Additionally, ensuring that the workforce is well-trained to operate, maintain, and innovate these systems is essential for maximizing their effectiveness. The establishment of dedicated infrastructure for the deployment, maintenance, and storage of unmanned platforms is vital for sustained operations.

The Indian Navy’s commitment to unmanned systems represents a strategic vision for its future role as a net security provider in the IOR and a leading maritime force in the Indo-Pacific region. The commitment to these technologies signifies India’s dedication to technological innovation and self-reliance in maritime defense.

As the Navy continues to expand its investments in research and development, foster public-private partnerships, and modernize its operational doctrines, unmanned systems are set to become the backbone of future naval strategies. These platforms are gearing up to redefine the Navy’s role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests, promising a powerful yet agile and innovative force ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

As we reflect on the achievements of the Indian Navy on this Navy Day, the integration of unmanned systems stands as a testament to its forward-looking vision—a Navy poised to secure its place as a global maritime leader in a rapidly evolving geostrategic landscape.

A significant passing out ceremony recently took place at the Palani Parade Ground, Artillery Centre in Hyderabad, marking the culmination of rigorous military training for 2,600 Agniveers. Simultaneously, 592 Agniveers from the 1 EME (Corps Of Electronic and Mechanical Engineers) Centre in Secunderabad also celebrated their graduation. This milestone event, held on December 3, follows a comprehensive 31-week training program designed to prepare these soldiers for service in the Indian Army.

The Agniveers at the Artillery Centre represent one of the largest groups ever trained at any regimental centre in the army. Once inducted, these new soldiers will serve as gunners within the Regiment of Artillery, a key component of military operations. This graduating class marks the fourth batch of Agniveers, symbolizing a transformative moment in the evolution of the Indian Army.

During his address at the ceremony, Major General Punit Mehta, Colonel Commandant of the Regiment of Artillery and General Officer Commanding of the Jodhpur Sub Area, emphasized the critical role of officers in nation-building. His remarks underscored the importance of military service in strengthening the country.

The Agniveers underwent a comprehensive training regimen, which included 10 weeks focused on basic military skills followed by 21 weeks of advanced military training at the Artillery Centre. The training encompassed a wide range of vital skills, including physical fitness, the operation and handling of various artillery weapons and gun systems, as well as specialized subjects such as information technology, English language proficiency, cyber security, and advanced combat tactics and strategies.

On the other hand, the Agniveers trained at the EME Centre are skilled as technical specialists, taking responsibility for maintaining and managing complex weapon systems and equipment. This dual approach in training ensures that the Agniveers are well-equipped to meet the diverse demands of modern military operations.

With their training complete, the Agniveers are set to be deployed to field army units across the country, ready to contribute to national defense and security. The passing out parade not only celebrated their achievement but also marked the beginning of their commitment to serve and protect the nation.

The Indian Navy and Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles have launched the remarkable “Ride of the Marakkars” motorcycle rally, a tribute celebrating India’s illustrious maritime heritage and naval strength. The rally commenced on December 2nd from INS Kunjali in Mumbai, featuring a convoy of 22 motorcycles led by senior officers of the Indian Navy. This significant journey not only honors India’s naval legacy but also marks a new collaboration, as BSA Motorcycles joins the Indian Navy’s trusted fleet, complementing the existing lineup of Jawa and Yezdi machines.

Spanning 10 days and covering a distance of 1,580 kilometers, the rally will return to its starting point on December 11th. As the convoy travels, it will make strategic stops at key locations, including Pune, Satara, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, and Goa. Throughout this expedition, the riders aim to promote national pride, emphasize environmental sustainability, and foster community engagement.

“The ‘Ride of the Marakkars’ represents a significant milestone in our enduring partnership with the Indian Navy,” remarked Vishal Choudhary, Chief Marketing Officer of Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles. He emphasized that the ride symbolizes a connection between India’s maritime defenders and the communities they safeguard, underscoring the reliability and excellence embodied in each motorcycle akin to the values upheld by the Navy.

The rally coincides with Navy Day celebrations, and Lieutenant Commander Vishal Nair of the Indian Navy expressed excitement about collaborating with Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles to honor the indomitable spirit of naval heroes. He highlighted the significance of the Made-in-India motorcycles, which resonate with adventure, performance, and respect for India’s cultural heritage, aiming to engage with the nation’s youth who represent the future.

Organized by INS Kunjali in partnership with Jawa Yezdi, the motorcycle rally not only commemorates India’s rich maritime history and the legacy of the Kunjali Marakkars but also features 24 sea warriors from the Western Naval Command riding along the picturesque Konkan coast. The initiative emphasizes national pride, cultural heritage, and sustainability through various outreach activities aimed at inspiring patriotism and illustrating the Navy’s role in promoting unity and fitness across the country.

As part of its community engagement efforts, the convoy will pause at historical maritime landmarks for meaningful interactions, including educational visits to schools and colleges in five cities. They will conduct career guidance sessions to highlight the opportunities available within the Indian Navy, initiate tree plantation drives at major stopovers, and engage in interactive sessions at key naval sites, reinforcing the connection between the Navy and local communities while nurturing a sense of national pride.

Adani Defence and Aerospace has successfully delivered a second Drishti-10 Starliner surveillance drone to the Indian Navy, enhancing the capabilities of India’s maritime forces in monitoring shipping lanes and addressing piracy threats. This delivery follows the handover of the first Drishti-10 to the Indian Navy in January, and the new UAV was integrated into naval operations at the Porbandar facility in Gujarat. The Drishti-10 drone, developed at Adani’s Hyderabad facility and modeled after Israel’s Hermes 900 medium-altitude long-endurance UAV, serves as a sophisticated intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform, boasting an impressive 36-hour flight endurance and a payload capacity of 450 kg.

This UAV is recognized as the only all-weather military platform awarded NATO’s STANAG 4671 certification, ensuring its airworthiness for flights in both segregated and unsegregated airspace. The Drishti-10 offers persistent over-the-horizon capabilities, fully autonomous operations, and Satcom-based communication, which significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s operational range and situational awareness. The drone acts as a force multiplier, allowing for extensive monitoring of maritime territories.

Importantly, the integration of advanced payload suites on this medium-altitude long-endurance UAV marks a significant milestone for the Indian Navy. As part of its expanding capabilities, the Drishti-10 will enable differentiated maritime surveillance operations.

Previously, Adani Defence had delivered a Drishti-10 to the Indian Army in June, with plans for the Army’s first deployment at its base in Bhatinda, Punjab, aimed at overseeing the western border with Pakistan. The performance of the Drishti-10 in recent flight operations has demonstrated reliability and resilience, particularly in the challenging terrains and climate of the Himalayas, showcasing India’s growing prowess in indigenous defense technology.

In just under three years, Adani Defence has developed and delivered MALE UAV capabilities, achieving what typically requires five to six years in the defense sector. Rear Admiral Janak Bevli recently visited Porbandar to assess ongoing operations and engage with the Adani Defence team, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the defense sector and the company to enhance India’s self-reliance in defense technology.

This milestone delivery underscores a broader vision for India’s defense industry, reflecting a commitment to protecting and advancing national strategic interests while reinforcing the country’s capacity for innovation amid challenges.

The 4th edition of Exercise Harimau Shakti, a collaborative military endeavor between the Indian Army and the Malaysian Army, officially commenced with a grand opening ceremony at Bentong Camp in Pahang district, Malaysia. Set to run from December 2 to December 15, 2024, this exercise signifies a crucial step in fortifying defense relations and promoting regional security cooperation between the two nations.

The ceremony kicked off with a synchronized march featuring contingents from both armies, symbolizing unity and collaboration in their joint mission. The Indian Army was represented by 78 personnel from the Mahar Regiment, who showcased their operational readiness through a ceremonial parade, underscoring their commitment to joint training initiatives.

Brigadier General Shahir Hafizul Bin Abd Rahman, Brigade Commander of the Malaysian Army, presided over the ceremony, marking an important moment in the event’s history. He presented armbands to the commanders of both contingents, as well as to the umpires overseeing the exercise, thereby formally inaugurating the joint drill. The atmosphere of goodwill was palpable as officials from both nations exchanged mementoes, fostering a spirit of camaraderie.

In his keynote address, Brig Gen Shahir Hafizul highlighted the significance of such military exercises in addressing contemporary security challenges, which include counter-terrorism operations and peacekeeping under the United Nations Mandate. The ceremony concluded with a group photograph, followed by a display featuring advanced weaponry and equipment such as the Negev Light Machine Gun, Mini-RPA, Uncooled Handheld Thermal Imager, Multi-Role Tactical Mobility System, and Medium Grenade Launcher.

Notably, Colonel S. Praveen, the Indian Defence Attaché, was also in attendance, reflecting the high-level interest and commitment to this joint venture by both countries.

Exercise Harimau Shakti is an annual event hosted alternately by India and Malaysia, with the last edition taking place at Umroi Cantonment in Meghalaya, India, in November 2023. This year, the Malaysian Army contributes 123 personnel from the Royal Malaysian Regiment to the exercise. The main goal of Harimau Shakti is to enhance the joint military capabilities of both armies concerning counter-insurgency operations in jungle terrains, an increasingly vital aspect of modern warfare. Additionally, the exercise aims to improve interoperability and foster mutual trust and understanding between the two forces.

The 2024 edition is structured in two phases:

1. Cross-Training Phase: This initial phase includes lectures, demonstrations, and practical sessions concentrating on a variety of jungle warfare drills. Troops from both armies engage in substantive discussions and demonstrations to share tactical insights.

2. Final Simulated Exercise Phase: This phase features a comprehensive simulation, where troops will participate in multiple drills including Anti-MT Ambush, Harbour Occupation, Reconnaissance Patrols, Ambush Operations, and counter-attacks against terrorist-held positions. These drills are designed to replicate real-world scenarios, effectively preparing troops for complex and dynamic operations.

As a cornerstone of defense cooperation between India and Malaysia, Exercise Harimau Shakti facilitates the exchange of best practices regarding tactics, techniques, and procedures, ultimately enhancing the operational efficiency and effectiveness of both armies. Beyond the operational aspect, the exercise builds a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, reinforcing the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace and security while further augmenting their strategic partnership.

Adani Defence and Aerospace has successfully delivered a second Drishti-10 Starliner surveillance drone to the Indian Navy, significantly enhancing the country’s maritime surveillance capabilities. This development follows the earlier delivery of the first Drishti-10 drone earlier this year and marks a continued commitment to bolster India’s defense sector.

The Drishti-10 Starliner, manufactured at Adani’s facility in Hyderabad, is an advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform that boasts impressive specifications, including a flight endurance of up to 36 hours and a payload capacity of 450 kilograms. It has gained recognition as the only all-weather military platform in its category, having received NATO’s STANAG 4671 certification for airworthiness. This means it is authorized to operate in both segregated and unsegregated airspace, a critical advantage for military operations.

Sources indicate that the drone provides persistent, over-the-horizon capabilities with fully autonomous operation and satellite communication-based functions. Its integration into the Indian Navy’s fleet allows for enhanced monitoring of extensive maritime territories, potentially improving situational awareness and operational readiness against piracy and other maritime threats.

Drishti 10 is a medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAV, capable of operating between 10,000 and 30,000 feet. Generally utilized for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes, these UAVs can remain airborne for periods ranging from 24 to 48 hours. The strategic deployment of the Drishti 10 in naval operations began in Porbandar, Gujarat, underscoring its role in India’s maritime defence strategy.

In addition to its adoption by the Indian Navy, the drone has already been put to use by the Indian Army, which has received one unit. The first Drishti-10 Starliner drone for the army was delivered in June, with operational plans to utilize it for monitoring the western border with Pakistan from its base in Bhatinda, Punjab.

The successful flight operations of the Drishti 10, conducted by both the Indian Navy and Indian Army, herald a transformative era in India’s indigenous unmanned defense capabilities. The drone’s ability to operate reliably at altitudes exceeding 32,000 feet, along with its adaptability to harsh environments, further underlines the resilience and technological advancements being realized in India’s defense manufacturing sector.

With the rapid development timeline of less than three years for the Drishti-10, Adani Defence has achieved what typically takes several years in the industry, marking a significant milestone in the provision of MALE UAV capabilities. Recent assessments by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, VSM, Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Air), during a visit to the Porbandar base reflect the ongoing operational integration and collaboration between Adani Defence and the Indian Navy, a partnership aimed at enhancing and safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

This induction represents a crucial step towards self-reliance in defense technology for India, showcasing not only advancements in military capabilities but also the nation’s strategic commitment to innovating and fortifying its defense landscape.

In a significant collaboration celebrating India’s naval heritage, the Indian Navy has teamed up with Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles to launch the “Ride of the Marakkars” motorcycle rally. This initiative commenced on December 2 at INS Kunjali in Mumbai, gathering a convoy of 22 motorcycles led by esteemed senior Navy officers. Marking a noteworthy addition this year, BSA Motorcycles have joined the fleet alongside the familiar Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles.

Spanning an impressive 1,580 kilometers over ten days, the rally is set to conclude on December 11, returning to its starting point in Mumbai. Enthusiastic participants will traverse through notable locations including Pune, Satara, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, and Goa, with the event structured around themes of national pride, community engagement, and sustainability.

Vishal Choudhary, the Chief Marketing Officer of Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles, expressed that this rally not only cements the partnership between the motorcycle brand and the Indian Navy but also embodies their shared principles of reliability and excellence in service. Lieutenant Commander Vishal Nair of the Indian Navy emphasized the rally’s role in connecting with the younger generation and celebrating India’s rich cultural legacy.

As part of the celebrations for Navy Week, the rally pays homage to the historical significance of the Kunjali Marakkars, revered figures in India’s maritime history. The event features the participation of 24 personnel from the Western Naval Command, who will navigate along the scenic Konkan coast while actively engaging with local communities. This initiative aims to promote environmental sustainability, foster national unity, and encourage fitness among participants through various planned activities.

Throughout the journey, the rally’s convoy will make stops at essential maritime landmarks, employing the opportunity to conduct outreach programs. These include visits to schools and colleges, offering career guidance sessions focused on potential opportunities within the Indian Navy, and initiating tree plantation drives. Additionally, participants will host interactive discussions at sites rich in naval heritage, sharing insights and experiences with attendees.

Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles have maintained a strong association with the Indian Armed Forces over the years, including previous partnerships such as the INS Vikrant expedition and the introduction of the Jawa 42 Tawang Edition. The “Ride of the Marakkars” continues this proud tradition, underscoring a commitment to bolstering India’s defense community through the provision of reliable and high-performance motorcycles.

In a significant advancement for self-reliance in the defence sector, the Indian Army has successfully received its first batch of 480 loitering munitions, commonly referred to as kamikaze drones, named Nagastra-1. Developed by Solar Industries, a company based in Nagpur, these lightweight, man-portable munitions embody more than 75 percent indigenous content, underscoring India’s push towards greater self-sufficiency in defence production.

The delivery of these weapon systems was made under a contract signed as part of the Indian Army’s emergency procurement initiative, as reported by news agency ANI. The introduction of Nagastra-1 is expected to significantly enhance India’s capabilities in drone warfare, aligning with contemporary military strategies that rely heavily on precision and efficiency in combat scenarios.

Nagastra-1 is designed for precision strikes and is equipped with advanced technological features that differentiate it from traditional weaponry. Weighing a mere 30 kg, each drone carries a 1-kg high explosive fragmenting warhead, specifically designed to neutralize soft-skin targets efficiently. The system boasts GPS-enabled strike capabilities with remarkable accuracy, hitting targets within a range of up to two metres. This level of precision makes the Nagastra-1 particularly suitable for surgical military operations that demand high levels of accuracy and minimized collateral damage.

Further enhancing its combat utility, Nagastra-1 is fitted with day and night surveillance cameras that provide real-time reconnaissance and target identification. This feature not only improves the effectiveness of the strikes but also adds a layer of versatility to the operational deployment of the drones.

One of the standout characteristics of the Nagastra-1 is its unique parachute recovery system, which allows for mission aborts and the possibility of reusing the drone. This innovative approach sets Nagastra-1 apart from similar systems available on the global market, potentially offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for modern warfare.

Looking ahead, Solar Industries is already working on the development of advanced versions of these munitions, designated Nagastra-2 and Nagastra-3, which are expected to feature enhanced warhead carrying capabilities, further expanding the operational reach and impact of the drone technology in military applications.

In addition to the Nagastra series, Solar Industries has put forth proposals for the design and development of a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) class of drones, which could further solidify India’s position in the growing and competitive field of unmanned aerial systems. This multifaceted approach towards drone development signifies a proactive effort to enhance India’s defence capabilities through indigenous technology and innovation.