In a significant development, the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), Indian Army and Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER), an autonomous R&D laboratory under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), have joined forces. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a shared vision to advance ‘Next Generation Wireless Technologies for the Indian Army, the Defence Ministry said on 22 June. This initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening the Indian Army’s technological capabilities, which are aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s declared vision for 2024 as ‘Year of Technological Absorption for Indian Army’.
According to the official statement, the new partnership will establish an ‘Advanced Military Research and Incubation Centre’ at MCTE, which will focus on Advanced Wireless Technologies for the Indian Army. This joint partnership between SAMEER and MCTE represents a shared commitment to exploring new technological frontiers and addressing modern battlefield challenges. Merging SAMEER’s expertise in wireless technologies and MCTE’s application skills in communications, electronic warfare, and cyber operations, the collaboration promises substantial advancements in defence and strategic sectors.
It also underscored that its key objective is to enhance national security and technological infrastructure. As mentioned in the official statement, the potential benefits will not only be limited to the military but will go far beyond. The advancements achieved could impact telecommunications, emergency response, and public safety, demonstrating a commitment to a holistic approach to national security. The strategic alliance is poised to set new standards for cooperation between government R&D institutions and military educational bodies, driving significant technological progress.
During the MoU signing ceremony, Maj Gen C S Mann, AVSM, VSM, Additional Director General of Army Design Bureau, elaborated on the Indian Army’s perspective on the absorption of niche technologies. He explained the efforts made to create an ecosystem for the development of various emerging technology-based solutions for military applications. Lt Gen K H Gawas, PVSM, VSM, Commandant MCTE and Colonel Commandant Corps of Signals, expressed confidence that this partnership will pave the way for ground-breaking achievements and set a new standard for collaboration between government R&D institutes and military educational institutions and play an instrumental role in the national initiative of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).
Team BharatShakti
