‘Vimana’ and ‘Operion’: India’s new robots to save soldiers on the battlefield

India has unveiled two indigenous robotic medical systems that could transform emergency treatment for injured soldiers and disaster victims. The technologies, Project Vimana and Project Operion , were introduced by Union Minister of State for Health Pratap Rao Jadhav at the SMRSC Global Robotic Surgery Conference held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

At the centre of the innovation is Project Vimana , a battlefield surgical robot designed to bridge the critical “golden hour” after a severe injury. In combat zones where medical teams may take time to reach the wounded, the system can be airlifted by a heavy autonomous drone directly to the battlefield .

Once deployed, surgeons located at a remote command centre operate the system using high precision controls. The robot is equipped with two miniature robotic arms capable of highly accurate movements , allowing doctors to perform procedures such as controlling severe bleeding, relieving chest pressure, removing shrapnel, and repairing damaged tissue. Real time video feeds and ultra low latency communication allow surgeons to guide the robot almost as if they were physically present.

Complementing it is Project Operion , a mobile robotic operating room that can be rapidly deployed in hospitals, remote regions, disaster zones, or military bases. Built on a wheeled platform with overhead integrated surgical tools , the system allows 360 degree access around the patient while also enabling remote surgical assistance through telesurgery technology .

While the technology promises to revolutionise emergency care, experts also point to potential challenges. Communication delays, equipment malfunction, cyber security threats, and the need for reliable power and connectivity could pose risks in extreme environments. Careful testing and training will therefore be essential before full deployment.

Although the systems have been officially unveiled , they are not yet in active battlefield use . Officials say they will undergo regulatory approvals, safety validation, and operational trials before deployment. Once cleared, these technologies could support defence operations, disaster response, and rural healthcare , bringing advanced surgical care to places where hospitals are far away.