roadmap for a future ready naval force - ficci

Roadmap for aFuture Ready Naval Force

2 Roadmap for a Future Ready Naval Force

India’s Defence Expenditure

India’s defence expenditure, as a percentage of GDP, has consistently declined over the years, albeit the GDP has expanded and therefore the absolute increases have been significant. Similarly, the defence expenditure as part of total government expenditure has also declined from 21 per cent in 1990 to 12.5 per cent in the Budget year 2016-17.1

In 2016-17, the total budget allocated for defence in India is INR 2,49,090 crore, excluding pensions. Out of this a total of INR 86,340 crore has been allocated under capital expenditure for modernisation of Indian defence forces.2

Table 1: Comparison of Defence Budgets: 2015-16 and 2016-17

Component 2014-15 (Act) 2015-16 (Bud) 2015-16 (RE) 2016-17 (BE)

Defence Budget (Rs. in Crore) 218694 246727 224636 249090

Revenue Expenditure (Rs. in Crore) 136807 152139 143236 162750

Capital Expenditure (Rs. in Crore) 81887 94588 81400 86340

Capital Acquisition (Rs. in Crore) 73401 85894 74299 78587

Share of Defence Budget in GDP (%) 1.73% 1.75% 1.66% 1.65%

Share of Defence Budget in Central Government Expenditure (%)

13.15% 13.88% 12.58% 12.59%

Source: Budget data published in Government of India Website

Table 2: Service/Department-wise Break-up of Defence Expenditure (INR Crore)

2015-15 (Act) 2015-16 (BE) 2015-16 (RE) 2016-17 (BE)

Army 13890 22406 18486 22110

Navy 21249 23911 18678 20715

IAF 30809 31481 28644 27555

DRDO 7483 7788 6480 6865

Land & works 7075 7087 8368 8207

Others 1381 1915 744 888

Total Capital Exp 81887 94588 81400 86340

Capital Acqusition 73401 85894 74299 78587

Source: Budget data published in Government of India Website

Future Naval Technologies

It is evident that the capital acquisition budget has seen very marginal growth which would not be sufficient to cater for cost increase due to inflation as well as the falling currency exchange rates. The reasons attributable to this reduction include rising commitments for revenue expenses, a planned shift in policy towards indigenous procurements leading to cost savings, planned utilisation of resources at hand prior to infusing fresh grants and radical changes in the procurement procedure which could result in a short delay in kicking-off major programs. Nevertheless, in the coming years, it is expected that the Defence budgets would remain at the same levels as a percentage of GDP and hence it is

essential to look at ‘Innovative and Force Multiplier’ solutions which can sizeably cut down the expenditure on acquisition and lifecycle support while also meeting the tactical requirement of Armed forces. The modernisation of armed forces needs to be looked at from this perspective and perspective plans be drawn on accordingly.

With the advent of nanotechnology, robotics, directed energy technology among others, there has been a paradigm shift in capabilities of naval forces in the 21st century. Navies of the future are likely to make use of lasers, electromagnetic railguns, unmanned vehicles, space assets, stealth technologies, and information-centric combat systems. Allocation of budgets and build-up of manpower resources are going to be critical variables

1 Laxman K Behera, “India’s Defence Budget 2015-16”, IDSA Issue Brief, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, March 02, 2015, available at http://www.idsa.in/issuebrief/IndiasDefenceBudget2015-16_lkbehera_020315.

2 Union Budget 2016-17, available at http://www.unionbudget.nic.in/.

Roadmap for a Future Ready Naval Force 3

that will determine adoption of these technologies. Cost benefit, long-term sustainability, maintenance requirements and interoperability will also have a bearing on technology development and adoption in the future. This background note provides a snapshot of modern day technologies and trends that offer a glimpse into the future of naval capabilities.

Missiles and Gun Systems for a Future Ready Naval Forcex

MissilesRole of missile systems is only expected to expand in the future with missiles having a greater share in naval strike operations at stand-off ranges, both sea to sea and sea to land. Technology has made a significant impact on missile flight performance, aerodynamics, range, weight, increased Mach number, cost and reliability. Trends indicate that future missiles will rely on improved terminal guidance through seeker/ sensor technologies that include faceted/window, multi-spectral, synthetic aperture radar, and multi-lens domes. Higher precision will be provided by guidance and control technologies such as INS+GPS and other space-based assets. Advanced electronics will provide higher processing power to fuse data provided by guidance and control systems and sensors, enabling missiles to navigate tougher terrains and improving abilities to reject false targets.3 Advanced propulsion technologies include liquid fuel ramjet, variable flow ducted rocket, scramjet, slurry fuel, endothermic fuel, composite motor case, and high thrust motors.

Gun SystemsNaval gun systems have to perform dual tasks of eliminating targets that are both closer to the ship and supporting troops operating at the shores. The US Navy’s next-generation Advanced Gun System (AGS) for littoral operations and electromagnetic railgun technology development offer some insight into the future direction of naval gun systems. Besides, gun systems will continue to play a major role in offering support to troops engaged in counter-insurgency and ground operations.

Propulsion & Power GenerationNaval combatants have come a long way from using boiler powered turbines to using gas turbines, diesel and nuclear power plants for propulsion. As more and more fire power is incorporated,

future technology platforms would have huge power requirements and hence will necessarily have to generate enough power to sustain these platforms. Propulsion systems will have to be more fuel efficient and with lower environmental impacts. At the same time, these systems will have to be highly reliable with reduced maintenance and repair needs. Given that surveillance and tracking technologies are also advancing with passage of time, tomorrow’s propulsion systems will have to reduce noise, radar and infrared signatures.

While ‘all electric’ seems to be the way ahead for future combat vessels, it is argued gas turbine engines will still be required for producing electricity for propulsion and critical systems. Currently studies are underway to develop rotating detonation engines (RDEs) that could improve performance by as much as 10% and also reduce fuel consumption in gas-turbine engines by as much as 25%.

If successful, this technology can also be retrofitted on the existing gas turbine engines.4 Another added advantage that RDEs provide is the relatively lower cost of maintenance.5

Torpedo and Directed Energy Weapons

TorpedoesModern day submarine operations have moved closer to the shore. Acoustic reverberation, poor sound propagation, local ship traffic, false targets and bottom clutter have highlighted the need for future torpedoes to be equipped with advanced guidance and control systems.

3 E.L. Fleeman, “Technologies for Future Precision Strike Missile Systems – Missile Aeromechanics Technology”, US Defense Technical Information Center, 2001, available at http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/p010399.pdf.

4 “Navy Researchers Look to Rotating Detonation Engines to Power the Future”, US Naval Research Lab, November 02, 2012, available at http://www.nrl.navy.mil/media/news-releases/2012/Navy-Researchers-Look-to-Rotating-Detonation-Engines-to-Power-the-Future.

5 “Rotating Detonation – Wave Engines”, Aerospace and Defense Technology, February 01, 2013, available at http://www.aerodefensetech.com/component/content/article/adt/tech-briefs/mechanics-and-machinery/15684.

Figure 1: Electromagnetic Railgun

Source: www.dailymail.co.uk

Source: www.aerodefensetech.com

Figure 2: Rotating Detonation Engine


Currently studies are underway to develop smarter front-end guidance and control systems. Intelligent controllers, ultra-broadband arrays, acoustic and fibre-optic communications to provide an improved tactical picture are some of the technologies that dramatically improve torpedo capabilities. Torpedoes could be capable of receiving targeting information from other platforms such as patrol aircrafts or UAVs.

Due to the advancements in detection and countermeasure capabilities, stealth features of a torpedo are receiving immense attention. For a torpedo to achieve minimal sound signature, the radiated noise from the propulsion system will have to be drastically reduced.

Advanced passive homing techniques, covert active waveforms with low probability of intercept (LPI) and low probability of recognition (LPR), and electric or hybrid propulsion system that uses an Integrated Motor Propulsor (IMP) can reduce noise levels substantially. Studies are also underway to substantially increase the range and endurance of torpedoes. 6

Directed Energy Applications At a time when militaries are facing budget cuts requiring prudent spending of resources, investment in directed energy (DE) weapons including high-energy lasers (HEL), high-power microwaves (HPM) and other radiofrequency weapons can prove to be cost-effective alternatives. HPM weapons are capable of producing gigawatt-class power output that can destroy modern-day electronics, similar to the effects of a nuclear electromagnetic pulse. Given its shorter range, HPM can be potentially be also used for crowd control or counter-personnel applications. Lasers, on the other hand, can be used for targeting incoming rocket, missiles, drones or artillery and mortar threats. While laser technology has been around for a few decades, the range and type of laser that is being developed has changed over time. At present the focus is on developing low-power lasers for

short-range tactical purposes using solid-state and combined fibre approaches.7 Although use of lasers appears to be a lucrative option, there are several challenges impeding the successful adoption of this technology. Lasers should be powerful enough to destroy or disrupt a target while simultaneously tracking multiple objects.8

Surveillance and Detection Systems

Radars Since it invention during the World War II days by the British to detect incoming German bomber missions, radar technology has progressed extensively with modern day systems offering imaging capability, inter-networkability and ability to swiftly process digital signals. These technologies have enabled radars to cater multiple needs of navies such as wide-area search, target tracking, fire control and weather monitoring, among others.

New semiconductor materials such as gallium arsenide (GaAs) and gallium nitride (GaN) have improved efficiency while enabling designers to reduce system size. With further development, future radars powered by high-capacity computers, will be capable of producing high-resolution images. Moreover, technological advancement has enabled development of multi-purpose radars which club various stand-alone radars

Figure 3: Shkval-E Underwater ‘Missile’

Figure 4: Lockheed Martin’s Protype 10kW Area Defense Anti-Munitions (ADAM) Laser System

Source: www.naval-technology.com

Source: www.osa-opn.org Source: www.militaryaerospace.com

6 “US navy looks at next generation SSNX submarines and 200 mile range torpedoes”, Next Big Future, January 27, 2015, available at http://nextbigfuture.com/2015/01/us-navy-looks-at-next-generation-ssnx.html.

7 Jason D. Ellis, “Directed-Energy Weapons: Promise and Prospects”, Center for a New American Security, April 2015, available at http://www.cnas.org/sites/default/files/publications-pdf/CNAS_Directed_Energy_Weapons_April-2015.pdf.

8 Valerie C. Coffey, “High-Energy Lasers: New Advances in Defense Applications”, The Optical Society, October 2014, available at http://www.osa-opn.org/home/articles/volume_25/october_2014/features/high-energy_lasers_new_advances_in_defense_applica/.

Figure 5: Sea-Based X-Band (SBX) Radar System


into one platform.9 Use of offensive radars that are capable of performing electronic attacks with their active electronically scanned array (AESA) antenna are also a possibility in the future.10

Space-based Systems Today, space-based systems provide variety of services for modern militaries including navies. Satellites can augment intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities by providing optical and radar imagery, electronic and radio-frequency monitoring. Space assets can also prove critical in providing atmospheric and undersea weather predictions apart from other providing other meteorological and oceanographic data. Space-based systems are also capable of providing early warning required for theatre and ballistic missile defence. Moreover, command and control links and navigation data provided by satellite systems form the backbone of modern day militaries. Thus, dependence on space-based systems is only going to increase in the future.

Network Centric Warfare (NCW) Systems NCW refers to the integration of naval ships, aircrafts, space assets and shore installations using information technology. This allows sharing of large amount of data using high-speed networks and advanced computing techniques, dramatically increasing combat capabilities of modern militaries. NCW systems enable forces to outpace the decision making of adversaries by allowing commanders to get a real-time picture of on-the-ground scenario.11 It is also equally important for navies dependent on such technologies to develop capabilities to protect their networks from sabotage or disruption.

Combat Management Systems (CMS) CMS are at the core of a naval vessel’s offensive and defensive capabilities. It integrates sensor, communication, electronic warfare and weapons systems to provide real-time situational awareness, decision making assistance and combat abilities to vessels. Modern

CMS enable commanders to be aware of battle environment prevailing on surface, subsurface, and air using radars, electro-optical systems and sonar. The data collected by these sensors are condensed by CMS to provide actionable intelligence that assist in planning and decision-making. A state-of-the-art CMS, while having these capabilities, also have the ability to direct weapons to engage and destroy incoming threats.12

Propulsion and Power Generation Technologies – Electric & Nuclear

Propulsion and power generation systems form the heart of a naval vessel. The efficiency of these systems is not only critical in determining the ability of vessels to navigate high-seas but also determines their capacity to operate complex electrical components and

systems. Today ship designers are utilising a variety of propulsion options including diesels, gas turbines and electric motors in various combinations.

Electric Propulsion systems were considered during the World War II but failed to enter operational stage due to size and weight considerations. As certain treaties restricted the size of vessels, electric propulsion systems, due to their higher weight, were not feasible. 13 However,

Source: www.indiandefencereview.com

Source: www.defense-studies.blogspot.in

9 “Radar Technology Looks to the Future”, Military and Aerospace Electronics, June 01, 2008, available at http://www.militaryaerospace.com/articles/print/volume-19/issue-6/features/special-report/radar-technology-looks-to-the-future.html.

10 “Navy’s Next Generation Radar Could Have Future Electronic Attack Abilities”, USNI News, January 17, 2014, available at http://news.usni.org/2014/01/17/navys-next-generation-radar-future-electronic-attack-abilities.

11 Ronald O’Rourke, “Navy Network-Centric Warfare Concept: Key Programs and Issues for Congress”, Congressional Research Service, November 25, 2002, available at http://fas.org/man/crs/RS20557.pdf.

12 Lt. Gen. Naresh Chand (retd), “Naval Combat Management Systems”, available at http://www.spsnavalforces.com/story.asp?mid=38&id=2.13 Norman Friedman, “Going Electric: The History and Future of Naval Electric Drive”, Defense Media Network, February 19, 2015, available at http://www.

defensemedianetwork.com/stories/going-electric/.

Figure 6: Network Centric Warfare Scenario

Figure 7: SAAB MK4 Combat Management System


today’s naval vessels are enormous when compared with their World War II counterparts. Many advanced navies are today using integrated electric propulsion (IEP) in their frontline vessels. For instance, the UK’s Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers and the US Navy’s DDG 1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers use IEP systems. These systems have large installed power to support desired speed, current weapon requirements as well as future directed energy and electromagnetic railgun systems.

While development of IEPs indicates that its use could expand in the future, trends indicate that ship designers are taking a varied approach. Diesel propulsion systems, given their lower initial procurement costs, remain a favourite for small and medium level naval forces. Hybrid propulsion system using gas and diesel configuration are also prevalent. This system uses diesel for supply power and weapon systems, electric motors for low-speeds and gas turbines for high-speeds.14

Nuclear Propulsion: Development of nuclear engines provided submarines with the advantage of travelling long distances and staying underwater for prolonged periods. Despite decades of active naval operations, nuclear reactors remain a complex technology to operate. Naval nuclear reactors, unlike their civil counterparts, need to undergo repeated

power changes for manoeuvring. At the same time, operating a nuclear powerplant inside a submarine requires high-level of safety standards, radiation checks, and quieting techniques. Unlike a civil reactor, internal inspection of a naval reactor is not possible throughout the core life. This demands that components of the core meet extremely high standards of manufacturing and quality.15

While air-independent-propulsion (AIP) technique and lower costs make diesel propulsion a lucrative choice, the advantages of using nuclear power cannot be undermined. In addition to the capability to remain submerged for longer durations, nuclear power also allows submarines to travel at a faster speed than their diesel counterparts.16 Due to these advantages, nuclear powered submarines are likely to remain a vital component of future naval fleet configurations.

Future nuclear submarine development is likely to focus on increasing energy output, eliminating refuelling needs, reducing life cycle costs and lowering the amount of radioactive waste. Optimisation of reactor-to-systems interfaces will also increase performance and efficiency. Moreover, new designs are likely to feature enhanced stealth capabilities and better littoral performance along with special warfare capabilities.17

Naval Aviation

Future trends in Naval Multi Role HelicoptersHelicopters have a critical role to play in the maritime domain. Traditionally, helicopters have been used for reconnaissance, search and rescue (SAR), medical evacuation, and logistical roles. Today, their role has diversified into providing anti-submarine warfare (ASW), electronic warfare and special operations capabilities.18

14 “Are Trends Electric? New Naval Power and Propulsion Generations Emerge”, Jane’s Navy International, 2015, available at http://www.janes360.com/images/assets/483/50483/Are_trends_electric_New_naval_power_and_propulsion_generations_emerge.pdf.

15 “Nuclear Propulsion”, Congressional Research Service, available at http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/eng/reactor.html.16 Jonah Friedman, “Nuclear vs. Diesel Submarines”, Center for Strategic & International Studies, October 18, 2011, available at http://csis.org/blog/nuclear-vs-diesel-

submarines.17 M. Ragheb, “Nuclear Marine Propulsion”, available at http://mragheb.com/NPRE%20402%20ME%20405%20Nuclear%20Power%20Engineering/Nuclear%20

Marine%20Propulsion.pdf.18 R. Adm (retd.) Sushil Ramsay, SP’s Naval Forces, available at http://www.spsnavalforces.com/story.asp?mid=32&id=3. 19 “Symposium 2016: The Future of Vertical Lift”, Naval Helicopter Association, available at http://www.navalhelicopterassn.org/.

Figure 8: Layout of a Nuclear Submarine

Source: www.infovisual.info

Figure 9: Future Lynx Wildcat Maritime Surveillance and Attack Helicopter


Given the increasing complexity of naval operations, helicopters of the future would have to provide greater manoeuvrability, range, endurance, altitude and hover efficiency. Simultaneously, they will have to provide better speeds and stealth features to avoid detection while operating in hostile environments. Helicopter’s use in launching light attack missions and reconnaissance in littoral waters is also likely to increase in the future. This necessitates the need for helicopters to be equipped with a variety of sensors, weapons, capacity to carry additional fuel and ammunition.19

Future trends in Naval Fighter AircraftsTrends indicate that future naval fighter aircrafts, namely the 6th generation fighter, will contain breakthrough technologies and will have the ability to undertake both manned and unmanned missions. Although in conceptual stages currently, the 6th generation


fighter could have features such as full spectrum dominance, autonomous sensors and payload integration. Full spectrum dominance will include, among other things, the ability of the aircraft to perform a variety of missions and undertaking joint missions with foreign militaries. Moreover, such aircrafts are expected to be fitted with cognitive electromagnetic weapons that are capable of autonomously finding new wave forms to attack multiple threats. It is also likely that future fighter aircrafts will be equipped with high energy laser weapons systems.20 These aircrafts would also attain maximum communication capabilities. For instance, a future aircraft will be able to maintain real-time connectivity with satellites, other aircrafts, and other equipments and personnel that could provide battle-relevant information.21

Emerging Aero Engine TechnologiesCurrent research work indicates to a high probability of next generation fighters using variable-cycle engines. As opposed to present-day engines,

these engines will be able to provide maximum efficiency at any combination of speeds and altitudes. These engines will be capable of mimicking a turbo-jet at supersonic speeds and a high-bypass turbofan for low-speed cruises, increasing fuel efficiency.22 At the same time, these engines should ideally be able to provide low size, weight, power, performance and cooling (SWaP-C) cost of the system. It is also interesting to note that developers are not focussing on achieving higher speeds but utilize higher power for computer systems and advanced weapons.23

Submarine Technologies

Future Submarine Hull Design and MaterialsModern submarine technologies include air independent propulsion systems, high-energy batteries, flexible payload, minimised signatures, and advanced acoustic coatings among others. Hull designers have increasingly focussed on achieving greater depths and speed, reducing drag and simplifying fabrication.

Materials such as alumina ceramic composites are being explored to increase operational depth of submarines without sacrificing internal volume capacity. Thickness of the hull plays a crucial role in reducing acoustic signatures while changing depths. Increased thickness can prevent the hull popping sounds made by conventional submarines during rapid depth changes. Moreover, a thicker hull will ensure greater survivability against enemy warheads.24

Hull designs that could incorporate embedded sensors can play an important role in improving C4I capabilities, early warning and interoperability with other naval arms.25 Future hull designs will also need to ensure minimisation of signatures emitted by submarines. Advancements in materials with absorbing capabilities will prove critical in avoiding radar and sonar detection.

Design changes could also include the possibility of equipping a submarine with a wide range of weapons. Future submarines should be capable of deploying torpedoes, ship-to-ship missiles, anti-satellite weapons, land attack missiles, self-defence decoys and weapons, mines, unmanned vehicles and special forces.26

Given their stealth features, submarines are an excellent platform to launch and support special ops in littoral areas.

20 Patrick Tucker, “Here’s What You’ll Find on the Fighter Jet of 2030”, Defense One, February 05, 2015, available at http://www.defenseone.com/technology/2015/02/heres-what-youll-find-fighter-jet-2030/104736/.

21 Kris Osborn, “Navy, Air Force to Develop Sixth-Generation Unmanned Fighter”, Military.com, June 17, 2015, available at http://www.military.com/daily-news/2015/06/17/navy-air-force-to-develop-sixth-generation-unmanned-fighter.html.

22 Dave Majumdar, “Next Generation Engine Work Points to Future U.S. Fighter Designs”, USNI News, June 23, 2014, available at http://news.usni.org/2014/06/23/next-generation-engine-work-points-future-u-s-fighter-designs.

23 Patrick Tucker, “Here’s What You’ll Find on the Fighter Jet of 2030”, Defense One, February 05, 2015, available at http://www.defenseone.com/technology/2015/02/heres-what-youll-find-fighter-jet-2030/104736/.

24 Joesph J. Buff, “Looking Forward – Nuclear Subs in 2050”, 2002, available at http://www.joebuff.com/essay04.htm.25 “Submarine Platform Technology”, Technology for the United States Navy and Marine Corps, 2000-2035 Becoming a 21st Century Force, National Academies Press, 1997,

available at http://www.nap.edu/read/5839/chapter/6.26 Per-Ola Hedin and Peter Hauschildt, “Future Submarine Technology”, available at https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&

cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj-ufjS3ZLLAhXTCo4KHdhECvkQFggjMAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wrk.ru%2Fforums%2Fattachment.php%3Fitem%3D194412&usg=AFQjCNHb-TmlUQ8YGblJcIP6g0r-AJ8xrQ&sig2=oWi2kxXZyilaIaPiYzsf8g&bvm=bv.115277099,d.c2E.

Figure 10: Lockheed Martin’s Concept for 6th Generation Aircraft

Source: www.news.usni.org

Figure 11: US Navy’s Virginia Class Nuclear Submarine



Future submarine designs are focussing on automated and quiet lock-out or lock-in of personnel and vehicles, stealthy surface launch, troop recovery, electromagnetic communications and integrated mission planning and control. Special ops can also be assisted by deploying unmanned and/or autonomous underwater vehicles.27

AIP Technologies and Stored Energy devicesAir independent propulsion (AIP) technologies have enabled conventional submarines to stay underwater for prolonged periods, increasing their stealth and operational efficiency. A submarine using an AIP system does not have to resurface or ‘snorkel’ to take in air required for running the engines and recharging batteries. AIP systems use liquid oxygen storage for closed cycle diesel engines, along with a fuel cells and large lithium-ion battery packs. AIP allows submarines to remain submerged for 21 days at a stretch and currently offers a range of 18000 miles.28 This provides a cost effective solution for navies with limited budgets.

Stored energy devices such as batteries

have also played an important role in improving operational capabilities of submarines. Advancements in battery technology today allows increased output as well as improved safety. Using technologies such as Lithium Polymer, discharge time can be enhanced substantially. These cells also offer 100 percent capacity utilisation and require minimal maintenance.29

Sonars for SubmarinesSonar’s are critical for detecting underwater threats such as incoming torpedoes, enemy submarines and mine hunting. Sonars developed during the Cold War mainly focussed on deep sea underwater operations. Today, underwater operations have moved closer to the shore. Sonar development too has shifted focus from supporting deep-sea to near-shore operations.

With submarines constantly improving their noise reduction abilities, Navies are exploring newer methods to enhance underwater detection capabilities. New systems such as Multi-Function Towed Array (MFTA) and Variable Depth Sonar (VDS) are able to detect silent submarines that are only running on batteries. These

27 “Submarine Platform Technology”, Technology for the United States Navy and Marine Corps, 2000-2035 Becoming a 21st Century Force, National Academies Press, 1997, available at http://www.nap.edu/read/5839/chapter/6.

28 “New Air Independent Propulsion Subs at less than half the cost eliminate the reasons for Nuclear Submarines”, Next Big Future, April 09, 2015, available at http://nextbigfuture.com/2015/04/new-air-independent-propulsion-subs.html.

29 Per-Ola Hedin and Peter Hauschildt, “Future Submarine Technology”, available at https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj-ufjS3ZLLAhXTCo4KHdhECvkQFggjMAE&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wrk.ru%2Fforums%2Fattachment.php%3Fitem%3D194412&usg=AFQjCNHb-TmlUQ8YGblJcIP6g0r-AJ8xrQ&sig2=oWi2kxXZyilaIaPiYzsf8g&bvm=bv.115277099,d.c2E.

30 “LCS Pursues Next-Generation Submarine Sonar”, Defense Tech, May 30, 2015, available at http://www.defensetech.org/2013/05/30/lcs-pursues-next-generation-submarine-sonar/.

31 “New Sonar Developments”, Naval Technology, February 28, 2011, available at http://www.naval-technology.com/features/feature111462/.32 Andrea Alfano, “Drones of the Future may Feature Batlike Ears and Nose”, Tech Times, May 21, 2015, available at http://www.techtimes.com/articles/54406/20150521/

drones-future-feature-bat-ears-nose.htm.33 “Acoustic Cloaking Device Shields Objects from Sound”, BBC News, June 24, 2011, available at http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-13905573.34 “Navy Zeroes Out Fire Scout Buy, Future of Program Unclear”, USNI News, March 05, 2014, available at http://news.usni.org/2014/03/05/navy-zeroes-fire-scout-

buy-future-program-unclear.

systems are also capable of providing torpedo warnings.30

Systems such as the Dolphin-inspired sonar that uses twin inverted pulse sonar (TWIPS) are capable of penetrating bubbles, increasing sonar reliability in waters close to the shore. By using twinned pairs of sound pulses, TWIPS enhances acoustic scatter of a target while reducing obstructions created by surrounding bubbles.31 Similarly, researchers are attempting to develop ‘bat-like’ miniature sonars that could be potentially placed on drones. This sonar mimics the science of echolation used by bats to fly in dense terrains.32

While the importance of sonar cannot be understated, technological advancement can in fact render the sonar useless in the future. Scientists in the University of Illinois have developed an acoustic cloaking device that could make objects invisible to sonar. The cloak enables manipulation of sound waves thereby not allowing them to be reflected or absorbed.33

Autonomous Vehicles for Naval Applications

Drones & Shipborne Unmanned Rotary VehiclesToday drones and unmanned helicopters are providing a variety of services for navies including ISR, mine countermeasures and anti-submarine warfare. Some of the unmanned helicopters are in fact becoming more autonomous in nature by eliminating the need for ground-based manual flight control. Updated versions of unmanned rotary vehicles (URVs) such as MQ-8 Fire Scout have the ability to fly by following predetermined flight points and parameters. It is likely that in the future such URVs will be a regular feature on all surface vessels that have a helipad. This would also mean that the role of URVs will be extended to mission areas that are more dangerous for manned crews.34

Figure 12: INS Arihant

Source: www.indiandefence.com


Drone technology has seen rapid development in the recent past. At present capabilities exist where drones can be launched from submarines using canisters that are typically used for deploying missiles. Once out of the duct, the drone can unfold its wings and commence vertical take-off. Development of such disruptive technologies will revolutionise ISR capabilities of navies.35

Unmanned Surface VehiclesWhile unmanned vehicles have been at the forefront of recent technological advancement, unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) have not been able to attract enough investment or research when compared to their air, ground and undersea counterparts. Some recent studies, however, point towards possible mission roles for future USVs. They can be used for offensive purposes such as conventional strikes, forcible entry, long-range strike, mining and wide-area ASW. They could also potentially be used as blockships that detonate and restrict access for other vessels. USVs can also be used for air defence, missile defence, mine countermeasures ASW.36

Apart from offensive and defensive purposes, USVs can be used for supporting other unmanned platforms by providing physical transportation in hostile regions, data processing, and tethering electric power. USVs can

also be highly useful in countering anti access area denial (A2/AD) challenges by reducing risk to personnel and assets, overwhelming enemy systems by dispersing into small, hard to hit targets.37

Unmanned Underwater VehiclesUnmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) can provide navies capabilities such as remote mine reconnaissance and location, intelligence collection, off-board sensing, seabed sensor deployment and acoustic detection. While developing UUVs innovative ways have to be found to support these vehicles with automated launch and recovery, mission planning and control systems, and secure underwater communications.38 While, at present, human intervention is required at

35 Denise Chow, “US Navy’s Submarine-Launched Drone Paves Way for Future Military Tech”, Live Science, December 11, 2013, available at http://www.livescience.com/41880-navy-submarine-drone-technology.html.

36 “US Navy Employment Options for Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs)”, Rand Corporation, 2013, available at http://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/research_reports/RR300/RR384/RAND_RR384.pdf.

37 Ibid38 “Submarine Platform Technology”, Technology for the United States Navy and Marine Corps, 2000-2035 Becoming a 21st Century Force, National Academies Press,

1997, available at http://www.nap.edu/read/5839/chapter/6.39 Cmde. S. Samaddar (retd), “Surveillance: Coastal Security: The Way Ahead”, Geospatial World, December 2012, available at http://geospatialworld.net/Magazine/

MArticleView.aspx?aid=30389.

Figure 13: MQ 8C Fire Scout Figure 14: Proteus UUV

Figure 15: Raytheon HF SWR

Source: www.news.usni.org

Source: www.auvac.org

some level, with constant improvements being made in the field of sensors, UUVs can also gain more autonomy in the future.

Coastal Surveillance and Response Systems and Platforms

In the Indian context, the need for a robust coastal defence mechanism was highlighted during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks when terrorists were successfully able to enter Indian mainland using the sea route. Ever since, improving coastal surveillance, response mechanisms and securing off-shore assets of national importance have taken centre stage. Apart from thwarting terrorist attacks, coastal defence and security involves prevention of illegal movement of goods and people and supporting naval operations during wartime. Technologies such as coastal surveillance radars, optical surveillance suites, and fast interceptor crafts, among others will be vital for strengthening the coastal defence mechanism in the future.39 These technologies will assist in

Source: www.raytheon.com


maintaining maritime domain awareness and response capability.

Modern day coastal security and defence depends a lot on the ability to detect threats and suspicious movements. Technologies such as high frequency surface wave radars (HF SWR) and X-band over-the-horizon (OTH) radars are capable of providing round the clock surveillance. These radars are capable of providing surveillance for air and sea in

40 “Raytheon Successfully Demonstrates High Frequency Surface Wave Radar for Long-Range Oceanic Surveillance”, Defense and Aerospace, available at http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/release/1332/raytheon-tests-long_range-naval-radar-(dec.-24).html.

41 Fast Interceptor Craft, BAE Systems, available at http://www.baesystems.com/en/product/fast-interceptor-craft.

Source: www.baesystems.com

Figure 16: BAE Fast Interceptor Craft

almost all weather conditions. In addition, these radars can be used for search and rescue, environment protection and remote sensing of ocean surface currents and winds.40

A robust coast defence mechanism will not be complete without fast interception capabilities. Modern day fast interceptor crafts make use of some of the most advanced technologies. These crafts are fitted with shrouding raydomes,

aerial fits and apertures that ensure low radar and heat signatures. The systems onboard include multiple fuel tank arrangements and a variety of navigation and communication capabilities including integrated intercom systems, radar, SATCOM and radio installations. Weapons systems include giro stabilised bow mounted mini gun systems and pedestal mounted weapons. Additionally, these crafts can be transported by air allowing rapid deployment. 41

About FICCI

Established in 1927, FICCI is the largest and oldest apex business organisation in India. Its history is closely interwoven with India's struggle for independence, its industrialization, and its emergence as one of the most rapidly growing global economies.

A non-government, not-for-profit organisation, FICCI is the voice of India's business and industry. From influencing policy to encouraging debate, engaging with policy makers and civil society, FICCI articulates the views and concerns of industry. It serves its members from the Indian private and public corporate sectors and multinational companies, drawing its strength from diverse regional chambers of commerce and industry across states, reaching out to over 2,50,000 companies.

FICCI provides a platform for networking and consensus building within and across sectors and is the first port of call for Indian industry, policy makers and the international business community.

Official Wesbite: www.ficci.in

About KOAN

India is at the centre of a major redefinition of global economic power. Given the complexities of development in India, there is constant flux in its business and political landscape. There exists a dynamic interplay between the internal and external, the local and global. Stakeholders interested and invested in India should be able to anticipate the pace and texture of this dynamism. They must equally be able to develop intuition that factors the uncertain into decision-making.

As a political and economic strategy firm, Koan combines thorough domain knowledge across sectors with continuous engagement of decision makers in the bureaucratic, regulatory and legislative arms of the Indian Government to deliver cross-thematic intelligence to its clients. The group strives to remain lean, efficient and quality-driven.

Official Website: www.koanadvisory.com

roadmap for a future ready naval force - ficci

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