In order to provide a tactical edge to soldiers involved in 26/11-style operations or fighting militants in close quarter battles in areas like J&K, the Indian army is in the process of procuring “flexible surveillance devices” for its infantry battalions. This would provide soldiers a distinct advantage in surveillance during the counter-terror operations and will assist in minimising the casualty of troops.
Indian army lost around 50 of its soldiers in combat operations in J&K alone this year; around
30 were killed in 2012, and 82 in 2011.
Officials said like some most advanced militaries of the world, the Indian army is also equipping its soldiers with critical technological tools. US and Israel military have been using this technology.
“This portable surveillance devices will provide real time information on terrorists hiding in a room or a built up area. Before launching an operation and without exposing soldiers to the enemy assault, we would know important details about the location of targets,” said an officer.
Army officials said that these devices will be fitted with thermal imaging cameras with night-enabled technology. Army has plans to purchase about 500 of such devices by the end of 2016.
Army headquarters has recently issued a Request for Information in this regard sources told dna that couple of Indian firms have expressed interest in supplying them.
All these devices will be given to the Ghatak units of the infantry battalion. Ghatak units are elite infantry platoons attached to each battalion which is mandated to spearhead assaults ahead of the battalions assault during counter-terrorism missions.
“Induction of these devices would reduce collateral damage. Normally there are chances of high casualty during such operations since the enemy is not in the line of vision. In jammu and Kashmir, for example, terrorists usually take shelter in houses. With this device we would be able to see through the walls,” officer added.
