Kanpur: In a significant step towards enhancing cybersecurity for military applications, HQ Central Command Lucknow and the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK), a centre of excellence for cybersecurity, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This strategic partnership aims to undertake the cyberproofing of indigenously developed and data-sensitive software at HQ Central Command.
The MoU was formally signed by Lt Gen Mukesh Chadha SM, VSM, Chief of Staff (COS) Central Command; and Prof Tarun Gupta, Dean, R&D, IIT Kanpur in the presence of Prof Sandeep Shukla, Project Director of C3iHub, IIT Kanpur. Other dignitaries who attended the ceremony include Major General Shabih Haider Naqvi, Col Hiren Borah, Col Sajal Thapa, and Lt Col Vaibbhav Apte from Indian Army and Ajaya K. Misra, Chief Finance Officer, Rohit Negi, Senior Vice-President (R&D), Mridul Chamoli, Senior Project Executive Engineer, Chandan Singh, Assistant Project Manager-Legal from C3iHub, IIT Kanpur.
This initiative is in line with the Indian Army’s theme for the year, “Technology Absorption 2024-2025,” set by the Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence (Army), New Delhi. The MoU underscores the commitment of both institutions to integrate cutting-edge technology and enhance the security and resilience of military software.
Prof Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur, said, ” In this era of an evolving landscape of cyber threats, it is imperative that we work towards fortifying the cyber resilience of crucial military applications and infrastructure. This MoU represents a significant step in our ongoing efforts to secure defence infrastructure. We look forward to a successful endeavour, combining our research excellence with the practical expertise to create a robust cybersecurity framework.”
The MoU focuses on building a comprehensive cyber defence strategy that encompasses proactive threat detection, real-time response mechanisms, and the development of secure software architecture. By combining the practical experience of the Indian Army with the academic and research excellence of IIT Kanpur, the collaboration aims to create a resilient cyber ecosystem capable of withstanding sophisticated cyber-attacks.
Prof Sandeep Shukla, Project Director of C3iHub, IIT Kanpur commented, “We are honoured to collaborate with the Indian Army and contribute our expertise in cybersecurity. This MoU not only addresses current cybersecurity challenges but also opens the door for future innovations in various high-tech domains. The dynamic nature of cyber threats requires constant vigilance and innovation. This partnership is a significant starting point for developing a robust cybersecurity posture that can adapt to new challenges.”
This MoU sets the stage for future collaborations in other advanced technology domains, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum Computing, Encryption, and Drone Technology. This partnership is expected to foster a deep association between academia and the Indian Army, driving innovation and strengthening national security.
Both IIT Kanpur and HQ Central Command are committed to the shared goal of national security and set a benchmark for future collaborations between academia and the military, ultimately contributing to the nation’s defence preparedness.
