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The Indian Army's 77th Army Day parade, held in Pune for the first time, featured a groundbreaking display of technological advancement: the unveiling of its first batch of robotic Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULES), also known as robot dogs. These machines, developed by the New Delhi-based firm AeroArc, a subsidiary of Arc Ventures (ARCV), immediately stole the show, highlighting a significant shift in the Indian military's approach to modern warfare and operational efficiency. The introduction of these advanced robotic systems signifies a proactive step towards leveraging technology to enhance soldier safety and operational capabilities in challenging terrains and high-risk situations.
The MULES are far more than just a novelty; they represent a sophisticated piece of military hardware designed for a variety of critical roles. Their capabilities are impressive, including perimeter security, asset protection, handling hazardous materials (CBRNE), bomb disposal, and intelligence gathering. Equipped with a computer, battery, front and rear sensors, and advanced legs for superior mobility, these 51-kilogram robots boast a top speed of three meters per second. With a battery life of 20 hours, powered by an NVIDIA Xavier processor, and the ability to carry payloads up to 12 kilograms, the MULES are designed for sustained operation and effective deployment. They can be set up in just 15 minutes, ensuring rapid deployment and responsiveness in dynamic operational environments.
The strategic deployment of the MULES is clearly aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of Indian soldiers. Their ability to navigate challenging terrains, including stairs, steep inclines, and areas filled with debris, while operating in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 55°C, makes them uniquely suitable for operations in the mountainous regions bordering India. Moreover, their dustproof and water-resistant design ensures operational reliability even in the harshest conditions. The MULES are also equipped with thermal cameras and other advanced sensors, enabling effective surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Importantly, the potential to equip them with small arms allows for engagement with enemy combatants without risking the lives of human soldiers.
The acquisition of 100 MULES in June 2023, under an emergency procurement scheme allowing contracts up to Rs 300 crore, underlines the Indian Army's urgent need for such technology. A defence source emphasized the importance of these robots in minimizing risks to both human and canine soldiers in dangerous situations, such as surveillance in mountainous terrain or when terrorists are suspected to be present. The source highlighted the potential of the MULES to carry small arms and actively engage with the enemy, providing a crucial tactical advantage. This also suggests a potential shift away from traditional methods of supplying remote areas; The Times UK reported that these robot dogs are intended to eventually replace actual mules in delivering essential supplies, such as ammunition, food, and medicine to challenging locations.
The successful integration of the MULES into the Indian Army marks a significant step towards a more technologically advanced and efficient force. The deployment showcases the army’s commitment to investing in cutting-edge technology to enhance its operational capabilities and ensure the safety of its personnel. The MULES’ abilities to self-recover, avoid obstacles, and be tracked remotely from a command station up to 100 kilometers away, demonstrate their sophistication and suitability for diverse operational scenarios. The potential for deployment by special forces further underlines their versatile nature and strategic importance. The parade itself, held in Pune, showcased more than just the MULES; it highlighted the overall commitment of the Indian Army to modernizing its equipment and infrastructure, especially along the sensitive northern border.
The 77th Army Day celebrations, themed 'Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena' (Strong India, Capable Army), emphasized the army's contribution to national strength. The parade featured an impressive display of various weapons and equipment, including the K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer, BMP-2 Sarath infantry combat vehicle, Sarvatra bridging system, T-90 tanks, and numerous other advanced systems. The presence of an all-female Agniveer contingent and the Nepal Army band added further significance to the event. Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi's address focused on the sensitive but stable situation along the northern border, highlighting the army's readiness and commitment to modernizing its capabilities. His emphasis on developing modern equipment and critical infrastructure underlines the strategic importance of the MULES and other advanced systems showcased at the parade.
Source: Robot dogs steal the show at Indian Army Day parade: The military’s best friend?