SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Army is poised to enhance its defensive and tactical capabilities through the planned procurement of approximately seventy units of the Vehicle-Based Mine Scattering System (VBMSS). This initiative aligns with the strategic objectives outlined in Paragraphs 2 to 4 of Chapter II of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, aiming to revolutionize the deployment of minefields in response to modern battlefield dynamics.
The primary goal of introducing VBMSS into the Indian Army’s arsenal is to enable the rapid laying of minefields in reaction to enemy movements.
Unlike traditional methods where mines are laid in advance, this system is designed to:
- React to Enemy Build-Up: Only a minimal number of mines will be laid initially, with the majority being deployed reactively once the enemy’s intentions become clear. This strategy aims to disrupt enemy advances, forcing them to reconsider their tactics, thus gaining a tactical advantage for Indian forces.
- Speed and Surprise: By providing the capability to dispense mines in the shortest possible time, VBMSS can surprise the enemy, disrupt their schedule, and compel them to redeploy, potentially turning the tide of an engagement.
- Economy of Force: By employing mines selectively and responsively, the system ensures efficient use of resources, focusing the impact where it’s most needed against enemy thrusts.
The VBMSS will consist of two main components:
- Dispensing Sub-System: Designed to lay both Anti-Tank (AT) and Anti-Personnel (AP) mines specifically engineered for this system. This subsystem will be mounted on a High Mobility Vehicle (HMV), ensuring mobility and readiness across various terrains including plains, deserts, and semi-deserts.
- High Mobility Vehicle (HMV): Acts as the prime mover for the dispensing system. Both the dispensing subsystem and the HMV will have independent power packs, enhancing operational flexibility and ensuring that mobility is not compromised by the power needs of the mine dispensing mechanism.
- Launcher Pod Longevity: Each tube in the launcher pod is expected to have a service life of 10,000 launches or 20 years, whichever comes first, ensuring long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness.
The integration of VBMSS into the Indian Army’s operational framework signifies a shift towards more responsive and dynamic battlefield tactics. It not only showcases India’s commitment to keeping pace with modern warfare requirements but also underscores the importance of indigenous technological development in defense. As the system moves from procurement to deployment, its impact on the Army’s ability to engage and deter adversaries will be closely watched.