Indian Navy seeks cutting-edge tech support from Young innovators

Highlighting the challenges faced by the Indian Navy in acquiring advanced technologies, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi on Monday urged students and young researchers to contribute towards strengthening the nation’s maritime capabilities.

Delivering the General B.C. Joshi Memorial Lecture at Savitribai Phule Pune University, Admiral Tripathi spoke on "Shaping India's Future Through Sea Power and Self-Reliance: An Indian Naval Perspective," organised by the Department of Defence and Strategic Studies. He acknowledged the Navy’s active participation in the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) programme, which has spearheaded 198 innovation projects so far.

“Out of 565 challenges presented, around 35 percent reflect our operational requirements and the credibility of our innovation. While we have made significant progress in several areas, some cutting-edge technologies continue to elude us,” Admiral Tripathi said. He specifically mentioned propulsion systems for ships and submarines, aero engines, niche underwater technologies, high-end weapon systems, hypersonics, and large cruise systems as critical areas where the Navy still faces gaps.

The Admiral emphasized the role of students and researchers in addressing these deficiencies, calling on them to bring fresh ideas and technological solutions. He also highlighted the Navy’s collaboration with defence industries as co-developers and partners in innovation.

Quoting Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Admiral Tripathi noted that each indigenous ship, submarine, or engine built not only strengthens India’s defence but also creates jobs, fosters new skills, and reduces dependence on foreign technologies.

The lecture underscored the Navy’s commitment to self-reliance and innovation while encouraging the next generation of engineers and scientists to actively contribute to India’s maritime security and technological advancement.