In this episode of The State of the Economy podcast, we examine the Indian Navy’s strategic shift towards self-reliance and innovation in the defence sector. Our guest, Commodore of the Indian Navy Arun P Golaya (retd), sheds light on the exciting initiatives propelling the Navy forward, as well as the challenges it is working to overcome.
Commodore Golaya cited the success of programs like IDEX (Innovation for Defense Excellence) and its Sprint sub-initiative. Through these programs, the Navy has fostered a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration between startups, MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises) and the defense establishment. The year-long Sprint Challenge has yielded impressive results, with more than 75 new technologies under development. Think: carbon nanotube-based firefighting foam for better fire suppression on ships, or underwater communication using blue-green lasers for a stealthy tactical advantage. These are just a few examples of the groundbreaking advances being made.
While the Navy excels at innovation, commercialization remains a sticking point. Commodore Golaya proposes a two-pronged approach to address this. First, allowing winners of IDEX and Sprint competitions to access the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) would ease their cash flow challenges. Second, awarding “Fit for Military Use” certificates to all qualified companies, not just the chosen supplier, could broaden the supplier base and open the door to potential exports. This would encourage participation and create a more robust national defense ecosystem.
The Navy recognizes that the sustainability of its force depends on a technologically competent workforce. It is taking proactive steps to address the skills gap. This includes recruiting officers with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in technology, harnessing the digital prowess of younger generations, and redesigning training programs. Simulators, virtual reality, and an emphasis on continuous learning are becoming essential aspects of Navy training.
The Indian Navy is not shy about the growing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern warfare. It has set up the Indian Naval Artificial Intelligence Cell in Bangalore to collaborate with startups and develop AI-based solutions for maritime operations. However, Commodore Golaya stresses that AI will not be a standalone initiative. Rather, it will be seamlessly integrated into various aspects of naval operations, from intelligence gathering and threat analysis to logistics and battle management.
The result? The Indian Navy is determined to become a self-reliant and technologically advanced maritime force. By fostering innovation, nurturing talent and embracing artificial intelligence, it is well-positioned to safeguard India’s maritime interests in the years to come.
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(Host: Dalip Singh; Producer: Renil S Varghese)
About the State of the Economy Podcast
India’s economy has been hailed as a bright spot amid the general gloom that seems to have enveloped the rest of the world. But several sectors continue to falter while others seem poised to fire up at full throttle. To help you understand the country’s web of contradictions, businessline brings you podcasts with experts ranging from finance and marketing to technology and startups.