In a move to bolster its combat readiness and operational efficiency, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is increasingly turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics for the maintenance and overhaul of its fighter jets and helicopters.
Driven by the motto "minimal human intervention, maximum combat potential," the IAF aims to automate various levels of maintenance, optimize inventory management, and enhance weapons production.
To achieve these goals, the IAF has partnered with leading academic institutions like IIT Mumbai and IIT Jodhpur. Collaborating with IIT Mumbai, the IAF is developing AI-powered systems to analyze and categorize aircraft components. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive database of 10,000 parts, allowing the IAF to identify identical parts with different part numbers across various aircraft fleets.
Beyond component identification, AI is being employed to analyze complex data from engines and other aircraft systems. By utilizing unsupervised learning methods, the IAF can gain valuable insights into the performance and maintenance needs of its fleet. This project, currently awaiting financial approval, highlights the IAF's commitment to leveraging AI for predictive maintenance and enhanced operational efficiency.
Air Marshal CR Mohan (Retd), former Air Officer-in-Charge Maintenance, explained that this AI-driven approach could lead to significant cost savings and improved inventory management by recognizing parts with the same geometry and material composition, despite different designations.
The IAF is also exploring the use of AI in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) of aircraft. This involves using AI-powered tools like smart glasses equipped with cameras to assist technicians in identifying and addressing maintenance needs in real-time. The technology can detect anomalies like open panels or damaged rivets, enabling faster and more efficient repairs.
Furthermore, the IAF is looking to introduce robotics in its maintenance operations, starting with the "Operating (O) level" – the initial stage of maintenance conducted on the tarmac or in the field. This could involve deploying robots to perform tasks currently carried out by human technicians, such as inspections using small ball robots or snake robots that can navigate inside aircraft.
The IAF's vision extends beyond maintenance to encompass weapons production. Air Marshal Mohan (Retd) emphasized the need for automated weapons production lines to meet the demands of modern warfare. He advocated for the adoption of Industry 4.0 principles to enhance the IAF's capabilities in this domain.
This strategic shift towards AI and robotics reflects the IAF's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in military aviation. By leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, the IAF aims to optimize its maintenance processes, enhance its combat readiness, and ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding India's airspace.
