New Delhi. Lt Col V S Velan, Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Elena Geo Systems, was honoured with the prestigious ‘Igor I Sikorsky’ Award for technical excellence November 5. The award was presented by Civil Aviation Minister, K Rammohan Naidu.
The award recognises Lt Col Velan’s outstanding contribution to helicopter navigation technology, particularly his development of the Elena NavIC Handheld Navigator (ELNHHN) – an advanced navigation tool tailored to the unique challenges of helicopter operation. The ceremony took place at the Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi.
The ELNHHN, an entirely indigenous product, offers a cost-effective and reliable alternative to imported navigation systems. Powered by NavIC, GPS, and GLONASS, it provides robust Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) solutions, ensuring accuracy and dependability even under helicopter rotor. The handheld device enables pilots to conduct precise route planning, flight path monitoring, and seamless take-offs and landings. This versatile navigator functions effectively within the cockpit and includes additional tools, such as barometric altitude readings, military grid references, and environmental data for enhanced artillery targeting and battlefield intelligence.
Commenting on this achievement, Lt Col Velan stated, “This award underscores our dedication to a ‘Make in India, for a Safe India’ vision. The Elena NavIC Navigator exemplifies how indigenous technology can meet the critical needs of our Indian Heli Industry, delivering unmatched precision and safety. By reducing our dependence on foreign equipment, we’re strengthening India’s defence capability and future.”
Founded by Lt. Col. V S Velan and incubated at IIT Kharagpur, Elena Geo Systems has led NavIC technology since its inception in 2012. The company has consistently leveraged indigenous technological capabilities in satellite navigation, providing India’s defence, government, and industry sectors with state-of-the-art navigation products that emphasise accuracy, reliability, and safety.
ELNHHN has multiple versions to cater for the needs of different segments of the society, such as
Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force, Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, and other paramilitary forces
Government: National Disaster Management Authority, Survey of India, Geological Survey of India, Dept. of Survey and Land Records, Smart Cities, Police
Industry: Indian Heli Industry, Mining, Agriculture, Logistics, Shipping, Adventure and Tourism
Following the award ceremony, Elena Geo Systems also showcased its suite of cutting-edge navigation products at the IsPA event, where Lt Col Velan engaged with dignitaries and officials for interactions and demonstrations.
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