The North Tech Symposium witnessed a ground-breaking moment on 12 September when the Minister of Defence, Rajnath Singh, unveiled the Enhanced Collaborative Autonomous Rover System (ECARS), a cutting-edge 4×4 multi-terrain unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). This event marked a significant milestone in the realm of autonomous military technology and national security.
ECARS, developed by Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd, a fully-owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge, stands at the forefront of innovation in the field of autonomous military technology. Designed to perform a wide range of missions including surveillance, security, safety, and rescue operations, ECARS brings a new level of versatility to military operations.
The ECARS UGV is armed with an enhanced collision avoidance system and advanced mission planning capabilities, rendering it a dependable resource for a wide range of military situations. The speed ranges between 16 and 20 kilometres per hour, with a payload capacity of 350 Kg and a towing payload capacity of 500 Kg.
One of the key features of ECARS is its compatibility with various systems, including Remote Controlled Weapon Stations (RCWS), Water Jet machines, and the transportation of heavy materials across border and water channels. This adaptability makes ECARS a tool for border surveillance, strategic asset perimeter security, riot control operations, CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) incidents, fire-fighting, chemical spraying, and meeting various payload requirements.
Commenting on the remarkable achievement Mr. Amit Kalyani, Joint Managing Director, Bharat Forge Limited said, “ECARS represents a pivotal moment in military technology. It’s a versatile, adaptable unmanned ground vehicle that is amphibious and has all terrain capabilities to significantly enhance our national security. ECARS’ advanced capabilities make it a valuable asset in various military operations, from surveillance to security, and it demonstrates KSSL’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of defence technology.”
