New Delhi: In a significant move to modernize airbase operations, the Indian Air Force is going to adopt an advanced Bluetooth low-energy (BLE) tool-tracking system, after signing a contract with IG Defence and Aerospace, who have won Ministry of Defence’s iDEX Challenge for this pioneering technology.
This innovative system enhances the efficiency and security of tool management across airbases, streamlining maintenance operations and ensuring precise inventory tracking.
The IAF operates over 60 airbases across the country, which reflects the immense scale and need for this innovation. This made-in-India technology will ensure the safety of airbases and expensive fighter aircraft, which play a strategic role in the country’s overall security as well as self-reliance.
The introduction of this advanced tracking system comes after IG Aerospace and Defence recently won the prestigious iDEX Challenge, marking a major milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology.
The defence ministry’s iDEX programme provides “Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart” (SPARK) grants to startups and MSMEs through Defence India Startup Challenges (DISC), offering funding up to ₹1.5 crore (or ₹10 crore under iDEX Prime) for innovative defence projects.
As part of India’s broader self-reliance drive in defence technology, this state-of-the-art solution is to be piloted at Gwalior airbase before its planned expansion to other IAF and Army airbases.
One of the key benefits of this system is its role in minimizing foreign object debris (FOD) damage, a major safety concern at airbases. Tools, bolts, and other maintenance equipment left undetected on runways can lead to incidents such as tyre bursts and structural damage during take-off or landing.
By enabling real-time tracking and automated alerts, the BLE system significantly enhances runway safety. Additionally, the system offers an extended charging cycle of 6–8 months, reducing maintenance efforts and ensuring uninterrupted operations.
Real-time, automated tool tracking is critical in military aviation, where misplaced tools and maintenance inefficiencies can impact mission readiness. Traditionally, manual tool tracking and runway clearance take 2–3 hours, relying on logbooks and human effort.
The BLE-based tool-tracking system revolutionizes this process by integrating AI-driven inventory management and industrial internet of things (IIoT) technology, reducing operational downtime and ensuring tool accountability with precision, besides being extremely cost-effective.
Speaking on this achievement, Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, founder of IG Aerospace and Defence, said, “Winning the iDEX Challenge and deploying our BLE tool-tracking system for the Indian Air Force is a proud moment for us. This technology not only enhances operational safety but also streamlines maintenance efficiency, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in indigenous defence solutions. We are committed to scaling this innovation across multiple airbases to strengthen India’s defence infrastructure as well as IAF’s operational readiness.”
Once the successful completion of the pilot project at Gwalior is done, the IAF plans to expand the system to other airbases, ensuring a more secure and efficient operational environment.
