New Delhi: In a significant push towards advancing India’s self-reliance in defence technology, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), in collaboration with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies, held the inaugural Annual Niche Technology Nexus (NTN-2024) Seminar today in New Delhi. Titled ‘Innovating Tomorrow’s Battlefront with Quantum and Electronic Mastery,’ the event spotlighted the transformative potential of Quantum and Electronic Warfare (EW) technologies in reshaping defence operations.
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan delivered a keynote address, underscoring the pivotal role of Quantum Technology in the future of warfare. He highlighted the alignment of India’s National Quantum Mission, launched during the centenary of Dr. S.C. Bose, with the nation’s goals for military advancement. “Quantum Technology will impact future wars with far-reaching outcomes for the Armed Forces,” General Chauhan stated, emphasizing its strategic significance, particularly in areas like Quantum key distribution, navigation, and sensing systems for the Indian defence forces.
General Chauhan further spoke on the potential of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Quantum Technologies into Electronic Warfare. He noted that by fostering research and collaborations within the Defence Technology & Production ecosystems, and by cultivating a skilled workforce, India’s Armed Forces can secure a global edge in Quantum and EW technologies.
The NTN-2024 Seminar provided a collaborative platform for industry experts, academic researchers, and defence stakeholders to discuss key advancements and strategic applications of Quantum and EW technologies. Several notable outcomes and recommendations emerged from the seminar, including the adoption of Quantum Safe Algorithms and advanced key management systems to ensure secure defence communications, as well as developments in Quantum RF Sensors, Quantum ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) products, Quantum atomic and optical clocks, Quantum Inertial Navigation Systems, and integrated cognitive EW systems for India’s Theatre Command structure.
These niche technologies are critical to modernising India’s military capabilities, enhancing secure communications, and enabling advanced sensing and computational applications. The NTN-2024 Seminar underscored the Armed Forces’ commitment to leveraging cutting-edge innovations in pursuit of national security and Aatmanirbharta in defence.