The Indian Army is modernizing its capabilities by procuring 9,000 handheld GPS sets to improve its operations in remote border areas and overseas deployments where accurate cartographic data might be lacking.
These GPS devices, according to the Ministry of Defence, are crucial in situations where up-to-date maps are unavailable, ensuring accurate ground positioning for various warfare aspects.
In defensive operations, the GPS devices will help in the accurate laying and recording of minefields, optimizing ground defense layouts, and enabling precise positioning of logistics and supply lines to support frontline formations.
Offensively, the GPS sets will allow for intricate coordination of attacks by precisely allocating locations to different units involved. Reconnaissance missions will also benefit, as accurate information gathering and transmission to commanders will allow for better-informed decisions. Furthermore, reconnaissance teams can use the GPS to provide coordinates for precise targeting by aerial platforms and artillery.
The GPS sets are designed for compatibility with India's own navigation satellite system (IRNSS), as well as global systems like GPS and Russia's GLONASS. They will come pre-loaded with maps of India and allow for uploading maps of other regions when needed.
These advanced devices highlight the Indian Army's commitment to leveraging technology for improved situational awareness, network-centric warfare, and real-time map updates for more effective decision-making in the field.
