Defence Min unveils 15-year roadmap: Nuclear-powered warships, hypersonic missiles, more on the horizon

The defence ministry has spelt out acquisition plans worth several hundred billion dollars that include nuclear propulsion for surface ships, next-generation tanks, stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicles, hypersonic missiles, laser-based weapons and a range of drone and anti-drone systems.The detailed plans, which list out the quantities and capabilities of over 200 individual weapon systems and technologies required by the armed forces over the next 15 years, will be of great value for the defence industry on where to direct research and development efforts.

The Technology Vision and Capability Roadmap gives an insight into plans of the armed forces to adapt to the changing nature of warfare, with an emphasis on emerging tech like artificial intelligence, space-based warfare, unmanned systems in all domains and direct energy weapons.

Significantly, the plans lay out that the Navy is looking for nuclear propulsion for at least 10 of its future surface combatants, including a new aircraft carrier that it requires in the coming years. The Navy will also require Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems that will give the carrier the capability of operating heavier aircraft.

The services will also need about 150 stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) capable of reaching supersonic speeds, with the ability to carry weapons internally and ability to fly at a height of over 15 km.

Catering to combat modern threats, the services have spelt out the need for onboard cyber defence systems for satellites, cyber hardening of satellite communication links and satellite-based laser range finders, besides several reconnaissance satellites. Anticipating contests in space, the plans spell out satellite servicing, on orbit refuelling, modular and miniaturised sensors and multi constellation GNSS receivers.The plans also lay out requirements of tactical high energy laser systems for the Army and Air Force, with the potential of anti-satellite operations as well. The armed forces also plan to induct high-power electromagnetic weapon systems in the coming years.Acknowledging the potential of hypersonic weapons, the armed forces will also acquire not less than 500 hypersonic missiles for high-speed strikes. It also needs detection systems for incoming hypersonic weapons.

For operations in the mountains, the Army will acquire at least 400 light tanks with advanced network and intelligence gathering capabilities, besides over 1,800 next-generation main battle tanks. The light tanks – required for borders like Ladakh – will have integration with loitering munition, drones and will be capable of advanced electronic warfare.