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Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
DRDO develops minefield marking system for Indian Army to enable faster, semi-automated deployment
The Indian Army uses minefield marking as a critical activity to provide immediate warnings and visual signs near hazardous areas. This process, which involves placing pickets and tying ropes between them, establishes a physical barrier that distinguishes known danger zones from cleared areas. The task is currently supported by the Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-I, developed by R&DE (E). To enhance the speed and reduce human effort in this process, the Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-II has been developed. The upgraded system is designed for semi-automatic operation with minimal manual intervention. It is capable of marking minefields more efficiently and is suitable for deployment in the plains of Punjab, as well as the semi-desert and desert regions of Rajasthan. Minefield marking: System capabilities and operation The Mk-II equipment is mounted on a TATRA 6x6 vehicle platform and can erect pickets at adjustable distances ranging from 10 to 35 metres in 5-metre intervals. While the system automatically rolls out nylon (polypropylene) ropes from its onboard spools, manual effort is still required to tie the ropes to the pickets at two height levels. The equipment can continuously place up to 500 pickets in one operation. Depending on soil conditions and spacing, it can cover a perimeter of at least 1.2 kilometres per hour using 15-metre intervals. Ten spools are installed onboard, each carrying 1.5 kilometres of rope, enabling the system to support up to 15 kilometres of fencing in a single run. Live Events Also Read: Watch: Indian Army deploy a three-tiered robotic counter-infiltration grid along the LoC against Pakistan Technical specifications The system comprises mechanical, electrical, electronic, and pneumatic sub-systems. Its mechanical elements include one picket storage unit , one Picket Holder Assembly (PHA), a pneumatic system, buffer assembly, ten rope spools with braking mechanisms, a container, a platform, one linear motor guide, and seating for two operators. The electrical sub-system includes a power pack, Power Distribution Unit (PDU), linear motor, lighting, and ventilation. A linear motor is used to hammer the pickets into the ground, resting on a stopper when not in use. This stopper is actuated by an electrical actuator. A diesel generator (DG-set) supplies the required power, which is regulated by the PDU based on the equipment's demands. The electronic sub-system features an auto/manual control panel, main and field junction boxes, a Distance Measuring Device (DMD), a driver's display panel, linear motor controller, and various sensors. These components support automatic operation of both electrical and pneumatic actuators. All sub-systems are integrated within a box-type container welded to the platform, which is secured to the vehicle chassis using U-bolts. Deployment and production plans The system is capable of operating within a temperature range of 0 to 45°C and requires a crew of four, including one driver and three operators. The Research & Development Establishment (Engineers), Pune, a premier DRDO laboratory, has invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from Indian industries with the technical and financial capability to manufacture and supply the Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-II with the requisite quality standards.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Watch: Indian Army deploy a three-tiered robotic counter-infiltration grid along the LoC against Pakistan
The Indian Army has implemented a structured three-tier strategy to achieve zero infiltration along sensitive border areas, according to an Indian Army officer deployed on the ground. The officer stated that the task of the troops is to "establish, maintain and ensure zero infiltration and establish a zero infiltration grid in this area." This objective is pursued through a combination of technology, physical barriers, and personnel deployment. Detailing the approach, the officer explained, "We do that in three layers. We use the plethora of surveillance equipment which has been given to us by the government of India, including radars, various thermal imaging sites, weapon and helmet-mounted sites, and UAVs." The second layer involves a comprehensive obstacle system. "We have placed various types of mines and optical systems throughout the entire area of responsibility," the officer said. The final layer is formed by troops on the ground. "We ensure that we send out routine ambushes and patrols to dominate the entire area either physically, by observation, or by fire," he added. Live Events — ANI (@ANI) Indian Army inducts indigenous minefield marking system In a move to further strengthen its border defence capabilities , the Indian Army on Monday announced the induction of the Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-II , designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The Army shared details of the development in a post on X, accompanied by images of the equipment. "Strengthening combat readiness through indigenous innovation in a step towards enhancing operational effectiveness, the Indian Army has inducted the Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-II," the post stated. According to the Army, the system, manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEM Ltd), "embodies the spirit of Atmanirbharta and significantly strengthening the combat capabilities of the Corps of Engineers." Key features of the Mk-II equipment Built on the TATRA 6x6 platform, the Mechanical Minefield Marking Equipment Mk-II consists of mechanical, electrical, electronic, and pneumatic sub-systems. The mechanical sub-system includes one picket storage unit, one Picket Holder Assembly (PHA), a pneumatic system, a buffer assembly, ten rope-spools with a braking mechanism, a container, a platform, one linear motor guide, and seating for two operators.
