DIAT ramps up focus on semiconductor design, defence & space electronics, quantum tech in wake of Op Sindoor

Dr Murthy said, “After the recent Operation Sindoor, a lot of thrust is being given by the government and the tri-services to the indigenous weapons systems and defence technologies. There is a lot of thrust on getting skilled human resources in this area. To that end we launched an advanced course in semiconductor chip design — an area which has seen a lot of government push and another one in Defence and Space Electronics — which will cater for advanced defence and space payload electronics research. To encourage more systems engineering concepts, we are introducing an industrial system engineering programme for working professionals which will be conducted in hybrid mode on weekends.”

“As part of the DRDO reforms, DIAT has been chosen as the main institute to offer MTech in Defence Technology programme for its new recruits. We are successfully conducting a course for the Ministry of Home Affairs to train Cyber Commandos for six months. The first batch completed its course and the second will soon join. The DIAT is also involved in niche and advanced research areas with key defence applications. One of them is free-space high data laser communication, in which we have successfully demonstrated proof of concept. Our quantum technology group is also involved in key research, particularly quantum communication, quantum sensing, quantum computing and quantum key distribution. A dedicated quantum research laboratory is set to be inaugurated,” Dr Murthy added.

“Our Electronics and Physics Departments are working on photonics based electronic warfare systems and radar sensor systems. Many technologies which are a result of indigenous research have been completed and inducted. Like we saw in Operation Sindoor like Akash, Brahmos and direct energy weapons. In the coming years, the projects that are in the final stages of development, will undergo user evaluation trials and will be inducted into the forces. And the industries including PSU will play a major role in the process,” he said.

Answering questions on the success of homegrown guidance, tracking and sensing systems during Op Sindoor and ongoing work in these areas, Dr Murthy said, “DIAT is conducting PG courses like aerospace, which covers guide missiles, UAV and air armaments. We have a course in radar and sensing technology.”

Speaking about research futuristic technologies, he said, “One is free-space high data laser communication. With space being a domain of warfare, we are giving a thrust to space payloads as part of the defence and space electronics programme. The quantum group is working on quantum sensors. There is ongoing research on photonics based radars which will make the systems compact and also give systems jamming immunity. We are also working on advanced material for aircrafts and missiles. Many recent conflicts globally have highlighted the use of drones not just for surveillance but actual combat. Swarm drones are also a key sector. Our teams are working on various aspects including the anti drone systems.”