Chennai: The Indian Institute of Technology – Madras and Munitions India Limited (MIL) have partnered and embarked on a two-year initiative to develop advanced smart ammunition with an objective to achieve a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 10 metres. A significant improvement from the current 500 metres, thereby offering 50 times more accuracy than existing ones and enhancing precision in defence operations.
Marking a crucial stride towards self-reliance in defence production, the indigenously designed 155 smart ammunition, nation’s first, will be guided by the Indian constellation of NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) satellites, formerly known as Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). The smart ammunition project focuses on increasing accuracy and lethality at the terminal impact point. This involves housing guidance, navigation, and control systems, alongside advanced technologies such as miniaturised electronics and sensors.
Expressing enthusiasm for the partnership, Ravi Kant, IOFS, Chairman and Managing Director, Munitions India Limited said, “We are confident that the might of MIL in conventional ammunition manufacturing and the brain of IIT Madras in developing a guidance system will pave the way for MIL’s foray into modern ammunition manufacturing with niche technologies.” He added that it as a crucial step towards realising India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
Highlighting the complexity of the project, Prof G Rajesh from IIT Madras, emphasised on its potential to revolutionise modern ammunition manufacturing. According to IIT Madras, Prof G Rajesh, Faculty, Department of Aerospace Engineering, and his team of researchers will be developing the smart ammunition, which will later be manufactured by Munitions India Limited which is engaged in the Production, Testing Research and Development and Marketing of a comprehensive range of ammunition and explosives for the Army, Navy, Air force and Paramilitary Forces.
“The Special Purpose Shell will house the guidance, navigation and control system along with roll isolation strategies, canard actuation system, fuse, shell body and warhead. The smart projectile will have complex technologies such as miniaturised electronics/sensors and mechanical structures,” said Prof G. Rajesh, Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Madras.
Designed for compatibility with existing artillery guns, the 155mm Indian smart ammunition offers seamless integration without necessitating modifications. It boasts advanced features such as fin stabilisation, canard control, and a 3-mode fuse operation, catering to various tactical requirements. It is expected to have a minimum range of 8 km and a maximum range of 38 km. It also offers three modes of detonation, such as – point detonation, height of burst, delayed detonation.
Signifying a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities, the collaboration between IIT Madras and Munitions India Limited aims to harness indigenous expertise and cutting-edge technology. The development of smart ammunition promises to bolster national security while fostering self-sufficiency in defence production.
