Indian Army Embraces "SMART Soldier" Concept with F-INSAS, Drones, and AI for Future Battlefield

The Indian Army is rapidly modernizing its forces with a focus on creating "SMART Soldiers" equipped with cutting-edge technology to dominate the battlefields of the future.

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, speaking at the 64th National Defence College (NDC) Course, announced this ambitious vision, which includes the integration of F-INSAS (Futuristic Infantry Soldier as a System), advanced mobility vehicles, and enhanced night combat capabilities.

General Dwivedi emphasized that this modernization drive is crucial to prepare the Army for future conflicts across diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions. This transformation aligns with India's "Viksit Bharat@2047" vision, aiming to make the Army a future-ready and self-reliant force.

The "SMART Soldier" program will leverage a range of advanced technologies:

• F-INSAS: This system will equip soldiers with integrated gear, including advanced weaponry, communication devices, and protective equipment, enhancing their situational awareness and combat effectiveness.
• Drones and AI: Nano drones, satellite technology, and dedicated R&D centers will bolster surveillance capabilities, while AI will be utilized for threat assessment and decision-making.
• Enhanced Mobility: The Army is investing in cutting-edge mobility vehicles to ensure rapid deployment and maneuverability across challenging terrains.
• Network-centric Warfare: Software Defined Radios, the SAMBHAV secure network, and anti-drone technology will enhance communication and battlefield management.
• Precision Strike Capabilities: The focus is on long-range munitions, pinpoint accuracy, and comprehensive post-strike assessments.
• Logistical Advancements: Logistic drones, robotic mules, and a tri-service approach to inventory management will streamline logistical operations.

General Dwivedi also outlined structural changes within the Army to optimize warfighting capabilities. These include:

• Rebal 1.5 and 2.0: Initiatives aimed at streamlining command and control structures and adapting to emerging geopolitical dynamics.
• Integrated Battle Groups: Specialized units designed for rapid deployment and offensive operations, particularly in mountainous terrain.
• Specialized Units: The Signals Technology Experimentation & Adaptation Group (STEAG) will focus on secure communications, while cyber, electronic warfare, and intelligence capabilities will be expanded.
• Army Knowledge & Enabler Corps: This corps will enhance linguistic and cyber skills within the Army.
• Artillery Modernization: Artillery regiments will standardize to 155mm guns, and the role of Territorial Army units will be expanded.

This comprehensive modernization effort signals a significant shift in the Indian Army's approach to warfare, embracing technology and innovation to ensure its readiness for the challenges of the 21st century.

 

[M S Chatterji]

Better equipment is one component, his determination to win and system to handle if he is injured or dead, training etc. are other components.

 

[Kira]

SiG-716 would be far better option for a smart soldier.

 

[Hawk]

I first heard of F-INSAS in 2007. At that time the plan was to equip all IA soldiers and paramilitary with modern equipment's including BMS by 2020. This project only exists on paper and partly on the guy in the picture. In reality, we can see the equipment that IA uses during CI operations and at best its comparable to the militias in Africa. Disregard these comic articles.

 

[ASHOK CARROL]

The groin protection plate should be made like the russian half frontal skirt of broad strips of armour plate which are wearable with tape secured to the belt and easily removable.

 

[Epione Epione]

What India needs is -

1. good Hacking, Social Media and Internet Security Soliders of 40-50,000 soliders who also connect with like minded indian and who can influence foreign politics like in Canada, India has huge population they need to take advantage of that

2. India needs robust air attack and defence capabilities and more advanced planes they have higher the chances of winning, China could destroy indian posts with they latest planes and we would be helpless

3. They need to increase the budget for R and D even if India has to compromise somewhere else

4. Develop own Smart Computers, Operating System and platforms like Facebook, YouTube , Twitter, TikTok and make it mandatory for Indians to open account in such indian apps if they want to get access to such foreign apps, so that they have both, in times of difference with other countries India could turn to their own apps, China and Russia have their own Facebook and Google

5 last but not least India need Spies army of around 50k to 2 lakh all around the work and in indian government and private organisations including NGOs that how other countries break the nation by inciting internal chaos

 

[Mohammad Bin Hossain]

It's not only about having the equipment. It's also about a specific skill-set that is needed from individual soldiers combined with the integration of these capabilities with the overall army doctrine.

 

[Mohammad Bin Hossain]

I first heard of F-INSAS in 2007. At that time the plan was to equip all IA soldiers and paramilitary with modern equipment's including BMS by 2020. This project only exists on paper and partly on the guy in the picture. In reality, we can see the equipment that IA uses during CI operations and at best its comparable to the militias in Africa. Disregard these comic articles.

Well said. I think this has something to do with overall defense purchase and procurement policy. Arming your military with weapons that produced at home is great. But that should not come at the expense of military's ability to function as a war winning entity.

Military Industrial Complex is a process and it takes time to be honed. It does not happen over night. I guess, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea can be a great template as to how to approach: Equip your Army with Ready-Made high end weapons and ewuipment. And then slowly replace it homemade weapons.

The approach made by the Indian establishment have a severe consequence on the defense readiness of the Indian military.