Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar inspecting a model of a high-altitude tank at HimTech 2024. (India Sentinels photo)
Leh: The Indian Army has launched the Him Tech Symposium at the Rinchen Auditorium in Leh, Ladakh, on Friday. This event, organized under the aegis of the XIV Corps, also called Fire & Fury Corps, is seen as a crucial step towards harnessing cutting-edge defence technologies tailored for high-altitude operations.
Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, general officer commanding in chief of the Northern Army Command, inaugurated the symposium, emphasizing the vital role of advanced technology in modern warfare, particularly in challenging terrains like Ladakh.
In his address, the Northern Army commander said, “The future of warfare, especially in high-altitude areas, hinges on the strategic use of cutting-edge technology, including AI-infused autonomous systems such as UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and UGVs (unmanned ground vehicles).”
The event, themed “Harnessing Defence Technology for High-Altitude Areas”, is being conducted in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Ficci). Over 90 vendors from across India are showcasing their innovations, ranging from autonomous unmanned systems to green energy solutions.
A highlight of the symposium is the Him-Drone-A-Thon 2, which took place at Wari-la, Ladakh, on September 17 and 18. This initiative aimed to tap into indigenous technology to enhance operational efficiency and tactical superiority in some of the world’s most challenging terrains. The event showcased various types of drones capable of performing critical tasks such as precision strikes, communication, and resupply missions.
Lt Gen Kumar highlighted the unique challenges posed by Ladakh’s extreme altitudes, often exceeding 15,000 feet (4,500 metres). The harsh conditions, including extreme cold, reduced oxygen levels, and rugged terrain, test both human endurance and equipment. “To protect our sovereignty, we must equip our forces with the best tools and technology available,” he said.
Some of the cutting-edge technologies that have been or are being showcased in the Him Tech Symposium – 2024 are:
Autonomous Unmanned Systems
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) – These drones are equipped for various tasks such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes. They are designed to operate efficiently in the harsh conditions of high-altitude areas.
Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) – These autonomous ground vehicles are used for logistics, surveillance, and even combat support, reducing the risk to human soldiers in dangerous terrains.
Green Energy Solutions
Portable Solar Power Units – These units provide sustainable energy solutions for troops stationed in remote and high-altitude areas, ensuring a reliable power supply without the need for traditional fuel sources.
Wind Energy Systems – Small-scale wind turbines designed to harness the strong winds prevalent in high-altitude regions, providing an additional renewable energy source.
Advanced Communication Systems
High-Frequency Radios – Enhanced communication devices that ensure reliable connectivity even in the challenging topography of Ladakh.
Satellite Communication – Systems that provide secure and uninterrupted communication links, crucial for coordinating operations in remote areas.
Survival Gear and Equipment
High-Altitude Clothing – Specialized gear designed to protect soldiers from extreme cold and low oxygen levels, ensuring their operational effectiveness.
Portable Oxygen Systems – Devices that help soldiers acclimatize and operate efficiently at high altitudes where oxygen levels are significantly lower.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Applications
Predictive Maintenance Systems – AI-driven tools that predict equipment failures and maintenance needs, ensuring that critical systems remain operational.
Autonomous Navigation Systems – AI-powered navigation aids that help unmanned systems and troops navigate the rugged and often treacherous terrain of high-altitude areas.
The symposium also is also providing a platform for defence manufacturers to explore business-to-government engagements with the Northern and Eastern Commands of the Indian Army and border-guarding forces, including the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Vendors are participating in “No Cost No Commitment” trials to evaluate and approve their products for military use.
