NEW DELHI: To bolster its Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) defense capabilities, the Indian Army has entered into a contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Limited for the procurement of 223 Automatic Chemical Agent Detection and Alarm (ACADA) systems.
The agreement, finalized on February 25, is valued at โน80.43 crore and falls under the โBuy Indian (Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured)โ category.
The ACADA system is an ultra-modern device designed to detect chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and specific toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) by continuously sampling ambient air. Operating on the principle of Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS), it houses two highly sensitive IMS cells that enable real-time monitoring and identification of hazardous substances.
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The integration of ACADA into field units is poised to significantly enhance the Indian Armyโs defensive posture against CBRN threats, ensuring rapid detection and response during both operational deployments and peacetime scenarios, including disaster relief operations related to industrial accidents.
A notable aspect of this procurement is the emphasis on indigenous production. Over 80% of the components and sub-systems of the ACADA systems will be sourced locally, providing a substantial boost to the โAtmanirbhar Bharatโ (self-reliant India) initiative. This move not only reduces dependency on foreign technology but also stimulates the domestic defense manufacturing sector, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Collaboration with DRDO
The ACADA system has been meticulously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) located in Gwalior. DRDE specializes in research and development aimed at defense against hazardous chemical and biological agents, playing a pivotal role in advancing Indiaโs CBRN defense technologies.
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The induction of ACADA systems is a strategic enhancement for the Indian Army, providing a robust mechanism for early detection and warning against chemical threats. This capability is crucial not only in the context of military operations but also in safeguarding civilian populations during industrial emergencies involving hazardous chemical releases. The deployment of such advanced detection systems ensures that response teams can act swiftly to mitigate risks, thereby protecting both personnel and infrastructure.
The procurement of ACADA systems marks a significant advancement in Indiaโs CBRN defense infrastructure. It reflects a concerted effort to integrate indigenous technological solutions into national defense strategies, reinforcing the countryโs preparedness against diverse and evolving threats.
