With an impressive number of active troops and additional reserve troops, India’s armed forces have a substantial need for reliable and cost-effective medical supplies. In the past, the Indian army heavily relied on haemostats manufactured by foreign countries, predominantly Western nations. However, thanks to remarkable technological advancements within the country, India has successfully developed its own indigenous haemostat. The ability to produce these dressings domestically not only ensures a consistent supply but also significantly reduces the financial burden associated with sourcing haemostats from foreign markets.
Combat casualty care is a dynamic and ever-evolving concept within the armed forces, and the US military has developed comprehensive guidelines to address this critical aspect and it updates them regularly. One key recommendation outlined in these guidelines involves the use of dressings to effectively manage and prevent blood loss during combat scenarios or in pre-hospital settings. These dressings, which are primarily based on chitosan, have been extensively researched and proven to be highly effective haemostatic agents. On one hand, they have the potential to instil confidence and courage within the armed forces. The utilisation of advanced technology can provide significant advantages on the battlefield, contributing to a display of power in global affairs.
It is not solely the vast array of ammunition that brings about this sense of courage, but also the assurance of safety and the ability to prevent morbidity and casualties in warfare. In addition to this, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing overall war preparedness. As the future unfolds, the interplay between technology, warfare, and global dynamics will continue to shape the world’s trajectory. The ability to harness technological advancements effectively, while upholding principles of safety, ethical conduct, and strategic foresight, will be paramount in preparing for the unpredictable and complex conflicts that lie ahead.
Focus on self-reliance
The concept of an Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) military holds immense strength, as it liberates a nation from the dependence on advanced countries for the procurement of ammunition and war technology, as well as personnel protection devices. Recognising the significance of safeguarding their personnel, advanced nations have acknowledged the necessity of equipping their forces with essential protective gear, such as tourniquets, bulletproof vests, and haemostats in personalised medical kits.
India has always been proactive in prioritising the well-being of its soldiers by embracing the latest advancements in personnel kits. Currently, India procures haemostats from other countries, reflecting the nation’s commitment to staying at the forefront of military medical technology. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to develop similar dressings within the country, gradually adapting them for military use.
Axio Biosolutions, a company with 15 years of experience, plays a significant role in manufacturing these haemostats based on chitosan, a proven and effective haemostatic agent. This pioneering company in this field plays a vital role in manufacturing haemostats that offer exceptional quality at an economical price. In fact, the company has gone a step further by exporting these life-saving kits to other nations as well, emphasising India’s growing expertise and contribution to the global arena of personnel protection devices.
While body armour effectively shields the torso, it is crucial to address the protection of other exposed areas of the body. The ideal solution lies in developing lightweight armour that enables army personnel to maintain agility and manoeuvrability on the battlefield. Although haemostats cannot prevent injuries from occurring, they play a pivotal role in mitigating the damage caused by unexpected injuries in situations where body armour is not available for protection. Haemostats have proven to be highly effective in controlling and preventing bleeding resulting from bullet injuries and other wounds sustained in combat scenarios.
In the realm of modern warfare, the integration of haemostats within personnel protection devices reflects a significant advancement in battlefield medical care. The capability to effectively manage bleeding in critical situations enhances the overall survivability of soldiers, providing them with a higher chance of recovery and reducing the long-term impacts of injuries sustained during combat. By prioritising the development and manufacture of essential medical resources, India solidifies its commitment to safeguarding the lives of its military personnel, while also making a positive impact on the international defence community.
Lightweight design
Among their range of offerings, the Axiostat® MIL300 represents the next level of protection for infantry soldiers and Special Forces. This particular haemostat stands out due to its lightweight design and vacuum-sealed packaging, making it an ideal addition to the soldier’s bulletproof vest. Its versatility allows for effective application in a wide range of injuries, including lower extremity wounds, gunshot wounds, head and neck injuries, shrapnel and penetrating injuries. Additionally, it can be utilised in unprotected areas of the torso, providing a comprehensive solution for managing bleeding in critical situations. What sets the Axiostat® MIL300 apart is its user-friendly nature, requiring minimal training for proper application.
Unlike tourniquets or Israeli bandages, which may have a steeper learning curve, the haemostat can be easily used alongside currently available field dressings. This simplicity and accessibility ensure that soldiers can rapidly and effectively control bleeding, even in high-pressure situations, improving their chances of survival and minimising the potential long-term consequences of injuries sustained in combat.
Furthermore, the Axiostat® MIL300 has a shelf life of five years, ensuring its reliability and effectiveness when needed most. This longevity is of paramount importance, as it guarantees that the haemostat remains readily available for use during extended military operations or emergencies. Additionally, the haemostat’s economical price makes it a viable option for widespread adoption within the military, providing cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or effectiveness. By incorporating the Axiostat® MIL300 into its personnel kits, India reaffirms its unwavering commitment to enhancing the safety and well-being of its soldiers. The haemostat’s advanced features, user-friendly design, extended shelf life, and affordable pricing collectively contribute to its effectiveness as a life-saving tool on the battlefield.
Apart from the Axiostat® MIL300, Axio Biosolutions also produces sponge and rolled gauze that is made up of 100 per cent chitosan. These technological advancements prevent pre-hospital casualties. Other than these, Axio also produces another device known as Maxiocel® which is an advanced rapid wound healing device.
Tactical combat casualty care
Recognising the ever-evolving nature of warfare and the critical importance of immediate medical assistance, the Indian army is actively focusing on updating the contents of first field dressings and shell dressings. Efforts are underway to upgrade the existing Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) and Battlefield Nursing Assistants (BFNA) kit, introducing the next level of protection for infantry personnel and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) operating in war zones. The army is gradually integrating tactical combat casualty care into its training centres, emphasising the importance of efficient and effective medical response during combat situations. However, there is a lack of personal protection kits in the corps belonging to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) due to the low budget allocations.
The team at Axio Biosolutions takes immense pride in the development and commercialisation of Axiostat®, India’s first trauma haemostatic dressing. Since its inception in 2014, it has been dedicated to serving frontline defence forces not only in India but also abroad. Today, Axiostat® is sold in over 50 countries worldwide. They are honoured to have earned the trust of more than 300 battalions of the Indian Armed Forces, including esteemed units such as the Rashtriya Rifles, Para Commandos, MARCOS, Garuda Commandos, CRPF COBRA, BSF, Northern Command, Eastern Command, Assam Rifles, ITBP, Greyhound, Kerala Anti-Terror Squad, and many others. They rely on Axiostat® to effectively control bleeding from gunshot wounds and IED blast injuries, ensuring the best possible care for their personnel. India becomes the fourth country globally to develop haemostats specifically tailored for the armed forces that are showcased in prestigious events such as DefExpo, IDEX Abu Dhabi, AFINDEX, FRINJEX, and other major defence symposiums. These platforms have provided the company with opportunities to demonstrate the capabilities of Axiostat® and receive valuable feedback from industry experts and stakeholders.
Furthermore, the company is the preferred partner from India for various UN peacekeeping forces and government-aided projects. Recognising the critical need for life-saving devices during the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, the company has swiftly scaled up its manufacturing capacity. By doing so, they aim to support the brave soldiers deployed on the war front and contribute to their safety and well-being. At the core, they are committed to advancing medical solutions that save lives and improve outcomes for those in high-risk situations. They will continue to innovate, collaborate, and serve our defence forces and global partners with the utmost dedication and integrity.
Combat casualty care training
In addition to its manufacturing endeavours, Axio Biosolutions goes beyond the production of military haemostats and wound dressings. The company also places significant emphasis on providing combat casualty care training to the armed forces. Conducting over 30 trainings annually, Axio Biosolutions focuses on crucial aspects such as Massive Haemorrhage, Airway, Respiration, Circulation, and Hypothermia Prevention (MARCH). These comprehensive trainings have engaged over 300 defence establishments, equipping military personnel with the necessary skills to handle critical medical situations effectively.
In summary, the rise of conflicts and the evolving nature of warfare, along with the perpetual great-power competition among nations, have led to significant advancements in military technology. India’s armed forces, with their substantial troop numbers, have recognised the importance of self-sufficiency in medical supplies. The advancements in haemostat technology, such as the Axiostat® MIL300, provide effective solutions for managing bleeding in critical situations, enhancing the survivability of soldiers on the battlefield. Through its commitment to innovation, India sets an example for other nations, emphasising the importance of indigenous solutions and prioritising the well-being of military personnel in combat scenarios.
