14 DISC
UAS-Borne NBC Detection Capabilities along with ALS equipped UAS (modular)
1. Indian Air Force (lAF) operates a fleet of helicopters, including the MLH and ALH MK IIl which are used for various missions, including reconnaissance, transport, and combat. With the increasing threat of NBC (Nuclear, Biological and Chemical) agents, there is a growing need for UAS-mounted NBC detector that can provide real-time detection and identification of NBC agents, with a high degree of accuracy and reliability. Additionally, helicopters undertake SAR and CSAR missions rescuing individuals or groups in distress both in peace and combat scenarios. Hence, the UAS should have an ALS equipment as a roll on-roll off capability for SAR/ CSAR operations. The benefits of having these systems are as elaborated below:-
1.1 Enhanced Situational Awareness.
1.2 Improved Response Time.
1.3 Reduced Casualties both in NBC and in SAR/CSAR environment.
1.4 Improved Intelligence Gathering.
1.5 Enhanced Force Protection.
1.6 Improved Command and Control.
1.7 Multipurpose utilisation of the platform for both NBC detection and SAR/CSAR capability.
2. Phase –I: The specifications expected from such a NBC detector system are as elaborated:
2.1 Real-time Detection. The NBC detector should be able to detect NBC agents in real-time, allowing for immediate response and mitigation.
2.2. High Accuracy. The detector should have a high degree of accuracy, with a low false alarm rate.
2.3. Wide Range. The detector should be able to detect NBC agents over a wide range, including urban and rural areas.
2.4. Reliability. The detector should be reliable and require minimal maintenance.
2.5. Portability. The detector should be lightweight and portable, allowing for easy transportation and deployment.
2.6. Power requirements. Payloads should be able to run using on-board power supply systems.
2.7. EMl/EMC. Nil interference from on-board systems.
3. Phase-II: The specifications expected from such a ALS equipped module are as elaborated:
3.1 Sensors. Camera for live feed to station is desirable. Communication equipment for real-time data transmission. The module should be compatible with existing programming units and PRC.
3.2 Communication Capabilities: The system should be able to communicate with:-
3.2.1 PRC to coordinate response efforts.
3.2.2 SARFIND to share critical information
and coordinate operations.
3.2.3 Ability to carry out radio relay functions between ground, RESPLAT/RESCORT/Survivor.
3.2.4 Provision of datalink and encrypted transmission.
3.3 Operational Altitude. Ability to operate up to 16000 feet AMSL (mandatory) and desirable up to 25,000 ft. The system should be capable of operating from temperature ranges from +/- 50o C.
3.4 Minimum Endurance. 2 hours.
3.5 Weather Resistance. Operate effectively in harsh weather conditions, strong winds up to 25 kts, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures (as defined above).
3.6 Night Vision. Should be capable of night operations thereby, enabling rescue operations to be conducted 24/7.
3.7 Autonomous Navigation.
Capable of autonomous navigation as per pre-fed route and with provision to alter the route in air as per requirement. Capable of navigating in GPS denied environment on INS or other system.
3.8 Integration with Existing Rescue Infrastructure. Seamlessly integrate with existing programming unit, PRC etc.
3.9 Real-time Video Feed. The drone may be equipped with a camera for real time video feed to JCSARS/ other users as deemed fit.
3.10 Certification and Compliance: The drone must comply with all relevant regulations and standards, including those related to aviation, safety, and environmental protection.
3.11 Data Secrecy. Provision to purge the audio/visual/navigation data remotely, in case of UAS being captured by the enemy during CSAR.
