SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM.
The Indian Army is gearing up to enhance its combat capabilities with the planned acquisition of a Canister Launched Anti-Armor Loiter Munition System (CLAAMS). The project, expected to be launched through a global tender soon, aims to bolster the army’s arsenal with advanced loitering munitions, a category of weaponized drones capable of extended flight and precise targeting.
The Indian Army already possesses experience with loitering munitions, having previously procured and operated systems like the indigenous Nagastra-1 from Solar Industries and ALS-50 from Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). Additionally, the Polish Warmate Loitering Munition developed by WB Electronics has been inducted into service. This experience provides valuable insights and operational context for the upcoming acquisition.
The Indian defense sector is actively engaged in developing loitering munition technologies. Start-ups like Redon Systems with their “Achuk” system and NewSpace Research and Technologies with the ALFA platform are promising contenders. Additionally, established players like AVision Systems (Israel), UVision Air Ltd, and Aditya Precitech Private Ltd (APPL) with their PALM 400 system are likely to be key participants in the tender process.
The CLAAMS system specifically seeks tube-launched loitering munitions. This offers several advantages, including:
- Ease of Use and Portability: The disposable tube launcher allows for quick deployment in diverse operational scenarios, conveniently carried as part of a soldier’s equipment.
- Reduced Logistical Complexity: The disposable nature of the launcher minimizes logistical burdens compared to reusable launchers.
- Enhanced Versatility: Tube-launched systems can potentially offer greater portability and flexibility for tactical operations compared to larger ground-based launchers.
The Indian Army’s pursuit of a CLAAMS system signifies its commitment to modernizing its arsenal and adopting cutting-edge technologies. With a global tender on the horizon, both established players and Indian innovators have the opportunity to contribute to this crucial acquisition. The project’s outcome will have a significant impact on the Indian Army’s operational capabilities and influence the future trajectory of loitering munition development in the country.
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