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A Monthly Bulletin of Defence Research nEWSLETTER and Development Organisation ISSN: 0971-4391 www.drdo.gov.in july 2020 | volume 40 | issue 07

-air launched Cruise gets Fleet Release Clearance

Innovation >> p06 societal activity >> p16 technology transfer >> p13 Drdo series >> p17 events >> p14 Personnel news >> p20 DRDO Newsletter

July 2020 Volume 40 | Issue 07 Contents ISSN: 0971-4391

Cover story 04 BrahMos ALCM gets Fleet Release Clearance

Innovation 06

DRDO Combats COVID-19

Technology transfer 13 Tejas FOC Handed Over to the IAF

2 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in DRDO newsletter

Events 14

Personnel news 20

40th Year of Publication

Editor-in-Chief: Dr Alka Suri Website: https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/ Associate Editor-in-Chief: B Nityanand newsletter/ Managing Editor: Manoj Kumar Please mail your feedback at: Editor: Dipti Arora [email protected] Editorial Assistance: Biak Tangpua, Raj Kumar Multimedia: RK Bhatnagar Contact: 011-23902403; 23902474 Printing: SK Gupta Fax: 011-23819151 Distribution: Tapesh Sinha, RP Singh

Local Correspondents Ambernath: Dr Susan Titus, Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL); Chandipur: Shri PN Panda, (ITR); Bengaluru: Shri Subbukutti S, Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE); Smt MR Bhuvaneswari, Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS); Smt Faheema AGJ, Centre for Artificial Intelligence & (CAIR); Ms Tripty Rani Bose, Centre for Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC); Smt Josephine Nirmala M, Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE); Smt Anuya Venkatesh, Defence Bioengineering & Electromedical Laboratory (DEBEL); Shri Venkatesh Prabhu, Electronics & Development Establishment (LRDE); Dr Vishal Kesari, Microwave Tube Research & Development Centre (MTRDC); Chandigarh: Dr HS Gusain, Snow & Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE); Dr Prince Sharma, Terminal Research Laboratory (TBRL); Chennai: Smt S Jayasudha, Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE); Dehradun: Shri Abhai Mishra, Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory (DEAL); Shri JP Singh, Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE); Delhi: Shri Ashutosh Bhatnagar, Centre for Personnel Talent Management (CEPTAM); Dr Dipti Prasad, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS); Dr Nidhi Maheshwari, Defence Institute of Psychological Research (DIPR); Shri Navin Soni, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS); Shri Anurag Pathak, Institute for Systems Studies & Analyses (ISSA); Dr Indu Gupta, Laser Science & Technology Centre (LASTEC); Ms Noopur Shrotriya, Scientific Analysis Group (SAG); Dr Rupesh Kumar Chaubey, Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL); Gwalior: Shri RK Srivastava, Defence R&D Establishment (DRDE); Haldwani: Dr Atul Grover, Defence Institute of Bio-Energy Research (DIBER); : Shri Hemant Kumar, Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL); Shri Pramod K Jha, Centre for Advanced Systems (CAS); Dr JK Rai, Advanced Numerical Research & Analysis Group (ANURAG); Ms Bidisha Lahiri, Centre for High Energy Systems & Sciences (CHESS); Shri ARC Murthy, Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL); Dr Manoj Kumar Jain, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL); Dr K Nageswara Rao, Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL); Shri Lalith Shankar, (RCI); Jagdalpur: Dr Gaurav Agnihotri, SF Complex (SFC); Jodhpur: Shri Ravindra Kumar, (DL); Kanpur: Shri AK Singh, Defence Materials & Stores Research & Development Establishment (DMSRDE); Kochi: Smt Letha MM, Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL); Leh: Dr Dorjey Angchok, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR); Mussoorie: Dr Gopa B Choudhury, Institute of Technology Management (ITM); Mysuru: Dr M Palmurugan, Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL); : Dr (Mrs) JA Kanetkar, Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE); Dr Vijay Pattar, Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT); Shri AM Devale, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL); Shri SS Arole, Research & Development Establishment (Engrs) [R&DE (E)]; Tezpur: Dr Jayshree Das, Defence Research Laboratory (DRL)

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 3 Cover story brahmos-air launched gets Fleet Release Clearance With the FRC, the can now be used in combat missions.

rahMos, a joint venture between The fastest supersonic cruise capable of annihilating high- ’s DRDO and Russian missile created history on 22 value land and sea-based enemy BNPO Mashinostroyeniya November 2017 after it was tested targets from longer ranges and safer reached another milestone when for the first time from IAF’s frontline distances. On 20 January 2020, its Air Launched version was given aircraft Su-30 MKI against a sea- Indian formally inducted ‘Fleet Release Clearance (FRC)’ by the based target. It was tested on 22 May Squadron of Su-30 MKI equipped Centre for Military Airworthiness & 2019 in users’ configuration with with BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Certification (CEMILAC) on 10 June launch point, target point, way point, Missile. 2020 through video conferencing. The launch altitude and range decided by Designed as a modified variant of conference was attended by members the IAF. its original anti- configuration from DRDO, BrahMos Aerospace, The airborne BrahMos was again BrahMos Air Launched Combat Aircraft and Systems Testing tested on 17 December 2019 Missile (ALCM)—featuring a lighter Establishment (ASTE), Software against a sea-based target successfully propulsion system, improved nose Development Institute (SDI), IAF hitting the target at bull’s eye. The cone and enhanced aerodynamic HQ and CEMILAC. This also led to successful test firings have established structure—has become the heaviest operationalization of the weapon on BrahMos as the world’s most powerful and most powerful weapon onboard Su-30 MKI of (IAF). conventional airborne precision strike the frontline super-manoeuvrable

BrahMos-A induction

4 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Cover story DRDO newsletter

BrahMos-A Su-30 combat aircraft of the IAF. challenging BrahMos-A programme air attack capability and has given With a strike range of 290 km and a became a marvellous engineering it a distinct strategic edge over its of up to 300 kg, the 2.5 ton and technological feat for India adversaries” added BrahMos Chief. missile promises to deliver a deadly wherein BrahMos Aerospace in close The incredible BrahMos Weapon blow to strategic enemy positions coordination with the IAF, HAL, System having excellent land across the land or sea. DRDO, ’s Sukhoi and all other attack and anti-ship capability has The air-launched BrahMos project major defence entities successfully established its multi-platform, multi- was fraught with innumerable modified, integrated and flight tested trajectory and multi-target features challenges as it involved the a weapon of such class and calibre for platforms based on land, sea, integration of a very powerful, from a fighter aircraft for the very first sub-sea and air. BrahMos missile has high-speed, manoeuvrable missile time in the world. emerged as a major ‘Force Multiplier’ on-board a heavy long-range air “The Su-30 MKI armed with in the modern day battlefield with superiority fighter platform. The formidable BrahMos is going to be impeccable capabilities furthering Russian-origin Su-30 combat aircraft India’s ultimate trump card against the confidence amongst all the three underwent structural modifications any kind of enemy aggression” said wings of the Armed Forces and to carry the BrahMos ALCM whose Dr Sudhir K Mishra, Director General has given them the much needed weight was reduced by 500 kg in BrahMos, DRDO. capability to undertake deep surgical order to fit it onto the heavy strike “BrahMos is a very heavy missile strikes. fighter. The missile underwent design and such a class of weapon has never In a rapidly evolving regional refinements for aerodynamic stability been deployed by a powerful frontline and global geostrategic order, a in the early stages of its flight from the air combat platform of any country in powerful weapon such as BrahMos supersonic air fighter platform. the world. The missile has enormously has undoubtedly changed the security The highly intricate and widened our Air Force’s stand-off dynamics for India.

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 5 Innovation

Drdo combats covid-19

Mobile BSL 3 Laboratory for COVID Sample Testing

Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL) Mysuru, has developed a quick response laboratory called Parakh to deal the situation arising due to contagious diseases including COVID-19 pandemic. The laboratory, stationed on mobile platform, provides for unidirectional airflow and gradient negative room pressure with class III Biosaftey Cabinet (BSC) for entry and safe processing of clinical samples. The viral inactivation and first two steps of viral analysis of RNA extraction are performed inside the BSC assuring staff protection. The fully autonomous containment laboratory is built on ISO 20 feet container and mounted on Ashok Leyland 1618-2C-4700 wb cabin Chassis. It adheres to Class ISO 7 and is operated with negative pressure to handle clinical, food and environmental samples during biological emergency without any risk to personal and environment. Complete Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC) is used to maintain desired unidirectional airflow and room pressure gradients of negative pressure as compared to the ambience. The ingress of the samples is done in a safe way through a specifically Clockwise from top left: Entrance and first air lock room with sterile PPE, gloves and designed dynamic pass box for direct mask storage; Second airlock with PPE change, emergency shower and eye wash and used delivery inside the Class III biosafety PPE disposal facility; Interior view of the lab showing Class III biosafety cabinet, real time 0 cabinet for safe sample processing. PCR, PCR work station, pass box, -20 C freezer, refrigerator and incubator Parakh comprises a clean air work Further provision for storing and The lab set-up has necessary station, cold chain for storing the donning PPE, storage for autoclave captive and raw power supply, reagents and samples, and provision and dynamic pass box facility have space for sufficient fuel and water for treatment of liquid effluents, safe been provided for sample entry used provisions and therefore can be easily storage of solid biohazard wastes aprons, emergency body shower and transported by road and deployed and decontamination by autoclaving. eye wash, etc., have been provided. at the site of emergency as per the

6 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Innovation DRDO newsletter

requirement. Air bellow suspension The system operates on 15 A, 220 facial features are saved in encoded and air compressor have been used to V, 50 Hz power supply. It has various form, the actual face images need not reduce the vibration during transport safety features such as emergency be saved, thereby ensuring privacy and for inflating tyres, respectively shut down, door interlocks, dual door, and security. Server for storing facial Parakh has Real-Time PCR delay cycle, and leak monitors, etc., feature database is placed within detection platform specifically to ensure safe operations for longer organisation premises. for COVID-19 testing. Medical duration. Dimensions of the Industrial AINA can be deployed with minimal professional can easily and safely Cabinet 7’ x 4’ x 3.25’ ensures that a upgradation to the legacy attendance handle and preserve samples large quantity can be disinfected at a infrastructure with RFID ( from disease outbreaks or during time. Cabinets of different sizes would Frequency Identification) readers. It surveillance. The laboratory has be available for the industry. has a lightweight installation process been handed over to Mysore Medical and can be installed on a normal College and Research Institute for desktop computer with a GPU-based testing COVID-19. display adapter. AINA comes with a Ultra Swachh for very intuitive and user-friendly GUI. Disinfection of PPE and Drone Surveillance System other Materials An has Institute of Nuclear Medicine been configured by Terminal Ballistics and Allied Sciences (INMAS), Delhi, Research Laboratory (TBRL), has developed a disinfection unit Chandigarh in collaboration with named Ultra Swachh to disinfect a industry partner for surveillance of wide range of materials, including COVID-19 hotspots and containment Personal Protective Equipment zones to ensure strict compliance (PPE), electronics items, fabrics, etc., of lockdown guidelines in densely with industry partner M/s Gel Craft populated areas, where streets are too Healthcare Private Ltd, Ghaziabad. Ultra Swachh narrow for motorised patrolling and police personnel are susceptible to The system uses an advanced AI-Based Attendance oxidative process comprising of Application infection in case of manual patrolling. multiple barrier disruption approach The 2.5 ft x 2.5 ft system weighs using Ozonated Space Technology COVID-19 pandemic has presently less than 3 kg and can be remotely for disinfection. Ultra Swachh is made it unsafe to use contact-based operated through a hand-held tablet. double layered with specialised Ozone biometric verification. An AI-based It can fly up to a height of 60 m and sealant technology assuring trapping Attendance Application (AINA) has has a range of 3 km with the capability of ozone for the necessary disinfection been developed, which allows contact of way point navigation. It is equipped cycle. It also has catalytic converter to less personnel verification using facial with a public announcement system ensure environment friendly exhaust, features of the person. Existing CCTV and an onboard video camera for i.e., only oxygen and water. cameras can be utilized for capturing recording and broadcasting real- The system is in compliance facial images. Thousand of facial time video feed to the control room. with International Standards of features can be stored in the computer; The controlling software of the drone Industrial, Occupational, Personal facial features of each employee are has built-in artificial intelligence and Environmental Safety. It comes in encoded in a small (less than 25 KB) tools for decision-making. The UAV two variants, namely, ozonated space file. The system is scalable as the time automatically returns to its home and Trinetra technology. Trinetra for identification and verification for location in case of any communication technology is the combination of each person remains constant even failure. ozonated space and radical dispenser. if number of registered personnel The system has been demonstrated Treatment is optimised with increases. The system is secure as it to the Chandigarh Police in a automation for quick disinfection works as a standalone system and does containment zone. It can act as a cycle. not requires Internet. Since only the force multiplier for law enforcement

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 7 Innovation

safety of the patient. A pilot light has Later the same recorded data is been provided to alert the people that subjected to acoustic analysis. For the device is in operation. It also has carrying out the analysis, signal a battery charge level indicator in the processing techniques such as interface console. Spectrum Analysis, Tonal Analysis, The trolley can be easily sanitized Modulation and Phase Analysis, (dry/wet) post operation without Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients removal of any of the components. Hot (MFCC) Analysis are carried out to swapping of the battery is possible for generate results for a person. continuous operation of the trolley. At any point of time, live voice UAV-base surveillance system samples of a person can be compared with data base and distortion in voice agencies fighting battle against the due to throat infection can be easily global pandemic. noticed. The technique has potential Medidoot - Medical Trolley for overall management of the pandemic. DRDO along with a start up JanYu Technologies, has developed a medical trolley named Medidoot for supply of essential items like food, clothes and medicines to a COVID patient in isolated wards for reducing exposure of doctors and other health

staff at the infected area. The design Medidoot of the trolley was reviewed by DRDO’s Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) Acoustic Throat Infection to improve and improvise the trolley Analyzer to comply the requirements of the Naval Physical and Oceanographic containment zone. Laboratory (NPOL) has developed Trolley is remotely operated by a an Acoustic Throat Infection trained person for delivering essential Analyser (ATIA) using acoustic data supplies to the designated patient in an processing techniques used in defence isolated ward. It has closed enclosures applications. The ATIA aims to detect to prevent cross contamination of upper respiratory tract infections the supplies and can only be opened by non-invasive means of acoustic remotely by the operator. There is scanning of word(s) spoken by a a provision of two-way audio visual person. interaction between the patient and COVID-19 infection develops the medical team through the screen initially in upper respiratory tract. and microphone either on WiFi or Detection of infection may give early standalone cellular network. information even before symptoms Trolley has the capability to sense develops and would be helpful in non- obstacles and stop automatically in contact screening of a person entering Acoustic Throat Infection Analyser order to take care of operational errors any office/establishment. Voice samples of a healthy person Crowd Temperature and has provision to alert the patient Monitoring System by way of an once it reaches in are first recorded as per SOP using a his/her vicinity. It has an in-built short microphone connected to computer/ A crowd temperature monitoring circuit protection mechanism for the mobile, etc., and added in a data base. system has been developed using

8 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Innovation DRDO newsletter

expertise in infrared imaging for resources has already been deployed The prototype has been realized missile applications. DRDO in at Hyderabad-based laboratories. and US-FDA requirement of “viricidal collaboration with industry partner Test results show that the system can activity of atleast 3 log reduction” has has innovated and developed be used in indoor environments as been met. The face masks treated in algorithms for thermography in well as in areas where a large number this system can be reused for many outdoor conditions. Advanced face of people gather/move regularly. The cycles. detection techniques have been used two camera and lens options have TM over thermal images. been worked out as: (i) 320 x 240, Protecton Bio-Suit & Mask The system consists of a thermal 17 µ, 7 mm (2-3 m) 25 mm (10-12 m ProtectonTM is a protection camera and a desktop/laptop typical standoff) and (ii) 640 x 480, technology developed initially as computer. Artificial Neural Network, 17 µ, 50 mm (25-30 m typical protective clothing for medical trained with a very large in-house standoff). responders who deal with patients thermal database, allows face Estimated unit cost of the system contaminated with radiological recognition directly on the running would be about 2 to 2.5 lakhs for agents during CBRN scenario. The video from the IR thermal camera. the basic configuration (camera, technology was transferred to M/s A large number of people can be computer) with about 0.5 lakh for Frontier Protective Wear (P) Limited thermally profiled outdoors without accessories (tripod, reference). and since then it has made headway disturbing their movements. Persons Automated System For in many applications, based on state- showing more than pre-set thermal Decontamination of N95 of-the-art technologies, by integration threshold can be earmarked, recorded Face Masks and optimization processes. and real time inputs can be given to Spread of Corona Virus An Automated System for authorities. necessitated the need of PPE for the Decontamination of face masks has The system developed by DRDO frontline warriors against Corona. been developed based on ultraviolet using its hardware and software ProtectonTM was further modified, (UV–C) germicidal irradiation for tested and validated as Bio-Suit for killing the bacteria and virus. The prevention of risk of infectious agents system comprises two sub-systems; like Corona Virus. The technology the Air Sterilization Unit (ASU) and complies with ASTM 1671 Tested the Automated Feeder for supplying using Phi X 174 Bacteriophage), which face masks configured as per time prevents entry of biological organisms required for sterilization of every four times smaller then the size of mask. Very high intensity radiation is Corona Virus, and NFPA 1999:2018 achieved inside the ASU to the tune standard that allows it to use multiple of 69.07 J/s/cm2 that ensures the times (25 cycles certified) after every high Sterility Assurance Level (SAL). work cycle in open field and isolated Further studies are being carried out wards, making it useful for both in Bio Safety Cabinet (BSC) class II-b health and non-health care workers. in a contained environment. Salient Features TT Re-usable (as per NFPA 1999: 2018 compliance) PPEs that can be reprocessed for complete month TT Laundry Washable (as per EN ISO 6330: 2012 6N Procedure)-25 Certified tested for Water Crowd Temperature Monitoring System Automated Mask Decontamination System Absorption Resistance Test [NFPA

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 9 Innovation

1999-2018 modified test (section 8.13) as per standard of AATCC 42]. TT Complied with ISO 4920:1981 (liquid integrity); ASTM D 5034- 09 (2013)/ D3787-07 (2011): (high tensile & burst strength); ASTM D 2582/5587 (extremely resistant to tears); ASTM E 96-00 method BW /F 1868 (part C)/para 8.42 of NFPA 1999 (comfortable for long term wear & breathable) & ASTM D 1230-10 (2016) e1 (fire resistant for open field operations) TT Fits into the category of compliance of protective clothing for emergency medical operations as per NFPS 1999: 2018 certification

ProtectonTM India 365 Mask ProtectonTM India 365 Mask, has been designed and developed for long term protection. Re-washable (100 times) mask would replace the existing three-ply disposable mask at a cost less than a rupee per day. Benefits

TT Per day utility cost is less than 240 ProtectonTM Biosuit and Mask INR with enhanced protection other countries especially SAARC, confidence and reduce probability of level; saving utilization month cy- BRICS association) occurrence of infection. cle for 1000 Health Care Workers TM (w.r.t. Rs 1500 INR per PPE kit At present, multiple manufacturers Protection Disinfection/ of export quality; single day use) are developing/trying multiple Decontamination (pair of Suits = > 80 % (approximately mini- fabrics with varying level of design with India 365 Mask) for Sanitation mum saving of Rs 3 crore 50 lakhs issues not complying with breathable Workers and ProtectonTM Disaster per 1000 HCWs requirement) standards faulty seam tapes. Quality Management (for urban flooding to control is major challenge as only TT Biological waste reduction by 30 Dirty attacks/Covid-19) are “Synthetic Blood Penetration Test” is times (as well associated cost and also available. ProtectonTM CBRN considered as primary criterion. The labor) Combat+ (lightweight strategic supply of such high quality DRDO TT Export potential with economic PPE to healthcare workers—uniform force suits for surgical strikes, NSG earning of DRDO (@ 2% royal- protection for all (no discrepancies and ATFs of various states) are ty) = > 50 crore per supply of 50 between various workers at reception being in process of integration and lakh suits (containerized supply to or isolated wards)—will boost their optimization.

10 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Innovation DRDO newsletter

Combat against COVID-19: Testing facility established at DRDo labs

Molecular investigation facility established at dipas A new facility for detection of severe acute respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), commonly known as COVID-19 has been established at Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), Delhi. This facility was inaugurated by Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary DDR&D and Chairman, DRDO on 29 May 2020 in the presence of Dr AK Singh, DS, Director General (Life Sciences) and Dr Bhuvnesh Kumar, OS, Director, DIPAS. This is Inauguration of Molecular Investigation Facility at DIPAS an enhanced Biosafety Level (BSL)- 2 containment facility for detection equipped DRL Centre for COVID officials from local administration and and research with viral vectors, Testing (DCCT) with Biosafety Health Department were also present arboviruses, and other emerging Level 2 (BSL-2) and other essential on the occasion. Dr Sanjai K Dwivedi, infectious diseases. The facility infrastructure, as per ICMR and WHO Director, DRL, Dr Vanlalhmuaka, contains separate sample collection guidelines on 29 May 2020. Shri Pijush Sc ‘E’ and Dr SN Datta, Sc ‘D’ briefed area, personal protective equipment Hazarika, Minister of State, Health the dignitaries about the facility. donning room, virus inactivation & Family Welfare, Govt of Assam, The testing centre has started full- room maintained at negative pressure Shri Pallab Lochan Das, Member fledged testing of COVID from 8 June containing biosafety cabinet (Type of Parliament, Lok Sabha, MLAs 2020. B2) and virus burnout unit, RNA from local constituencies, and senior isolation room, Pre-PCR room, PCR and reporting room, doffing area and bio-waste management area as per ICMR guidelines. The facility is equipped with QuantStudio 5 Real- Time PCR System (ThermoFisher, USA) and CFX96 real-time PCR detection system (Bio-Rad Laboratories) and compatible with all the available approved COVID-19 RT- PCR detection kits. Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma Inaugurates DRL Centre for COVID Testing Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Hon’ble Minister, Health and Family Welfare, Govt of Assam, inaugurated a well- Dr SK Dwivedi, Director, DRL (left), briefing Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma about the facility

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 11 Innovation

DIBER DEMONSTRATES COMBINED HEAT & POWER PRODUCTION FROM WASTE PINE NEEDLES

ine needles are a problematic biomass in Uttarakhand PHills. As per the Uttarakhand Renewable Energy Developmental Agency (UREDA), nearly 20.58 lakh ton of dry pine needles are produced in Uttarakhand forests. Dried pine needles on the forest bed eventually become a reason of forest fires with 1000-3000 incidences every year. As per Forest Department of Uttarakhand, the state has lost 44,519 hectare of forests due to fire since 2000. As a part of the R&D project “BEST”, Defence Institute of Bio- Energy Research (DIBER), Haldwani has developed gasification technology for converting waste biomass to energy using dried pine needles as the feedstock. Pine needles have high Calorific Value (CV: 19.6 MJ/kg), and are excellent source of energy. Gasification of pine needles pose enormous challenge because of their low volumetric energy density (<100 kg/m3) and high Lignin content (up to 40 per cent), as compared to wood chips (CV of 16 MJ/kg, volumetric energy density 250 kg/m3 and Lignin content 25 per cent), which are easily amenable to gasification. DIBER has developed a process and designed a gasifier for gasification of pine needles DG Life Sciences, DRDO Dr AK Singh being demonstrated generation of electricity (above) and heat from dry pine needles for co-generation of heat and power (combine heat and power, CHP), CHPs are utilized in distributed modes capacity of 10 kg/hr has been as a first initiative in Uttarakhand of power generation. The present installed at DIBER Haldwani. There state. CHP refers to the concurrent technology is quickly deployable, are vast possibilities of its potential production of electricity and/or cost-effective and can be used in applications in army units in mechanical power and useful thermal isolated and remote areas. Uttarakhand, besides being useful for energy (heating and/or cooling) from A prototype of pine needles-based small household or cottage industry a single source of energy. Typically, CHP with biomass consumption in the state.

12 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Technology transfer DRDO newsletter

TEJAS FOC AIRCRAFT HANDED OVER TO THE IAF

Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria handing over ceremonial key of FOC Mk-1 to Group Captain Manish Tolani, CO, 18 Squadron he Indian Air Force (IAF) Southern Air Command, Air Marshal Group Captain Manish Tolani, along inducted Tejas Mk-1 FOC Amit Tiwari, and the Commodore with the ceremonial keys to the unit. Taircraft on 27 May 2020 into Commandant of 18 Sqn, Air Marshal The event commenced with a fly past the recently resurrected No 18 Sqn, TD Joseph, Mr R Madhavan, CMD, comprising of a helicopter formation the “Flying Bullets” at Air Force HAL, Dr Girish S Deodhare, PGD of the Mi 17 V5 and the ALH, An-32 Station Sulur, marking yet another (CA) and Director, Aeronautical transport aircraft and Tejas Mk-1 important step towards enhancing Development Agency were also fighters. the operational capability of the Air present during the ceremony. While No 18 Sqn was raised at Ambala Force. The Squadron is the first in addressing the personnel at AF on 15 April 1965 with the Folland the IAF to induct this platform. This Station Sulur, the CAS congratulated Gnat Aircraft. Flying Officer Nirmal is also an important milestone in the them and lauded the efforts put in Jit Singh Sekhon, the only Param country’s indigenous fighter aircraft by Southern Air Command and AF Vir Chakra recipient of the Indian programme and a significant boost Station Sulur towards the induction Air Force was a part of the Squadron to the ‘’ initiative. of the new airborne platform. He during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Tejas Mk-1 FOC is a single engine, complimented Chairman HAL, ADA, The Squadron also has the unique lightweight, highly agile, all weather DRDO labs, DPSUs, MSMEs and all distinction of having operated two multi-role fighter aircraft capable of agencies involved in the production of HAL made aircraft, the Tejas and air-to-air refueling thus making it a LCA for achievement of this historic the Ajeet which it also operated from truly versatile platform. milestone. the same station. The Squadron was The Squadron was operationalised The occasion was marked by the number plated in April 2016. The by Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air presentation of aircraft documents Squadron falls under the operational Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, of the Tejas FOC version by the control of Southern Air Command PVSM AVSM VM ADC who also HAL, CMD, to the CAS. The CAS which is responsible for integrating flew a sortie in the Tejas Mk-I. Air further handed these over to the the Squadron into the IAF Concept of Officer Commanding in Chief of the Commanding Officer of 18 Squadron Operations.

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 13 EVENTS

DRDO Celebrates International Day of yoga he International Day of Yoga is celebrated annually on 21 June Tfollowing its inception in the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice, which originated in India. The idea of an International Day of Yoga was first proposed by the Prime Minister , during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), on 27 September 2014. Following the adoption of the UN resolution, the first International Day of Yoga was observed around the world on 21 June 2015. DRDO also celebrated International Dr G Satheesh Reddy sharing his thoughts in Web Sanghosti on the occasion of IDY Day of Yoga by organising a Web sciences laboratory of DRDO, has also Laboratory (NPOL), organised the Sanghosti “COVID-19 Prabhandan formulated special yoga packages to event according to the United Nations may Yoga ki Bhumika.” Acharya optimise our soldiers’ performance theme for this year’s IDY “Yoga for Balkrishna of Patanjali Ayurved was under different climatic extremes. Health-Yoga at Home” to maintain the Guest Speaker on the occasion. Adding further Dr Reddy said, in last social distancing. The lab displayed Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary few months we have seen pandemic posters prominently for encouraging Department of Defence R&D and effecting a large number of people employees to practice yoga at their Chairman DRDO presided over the psychologically and physiologically home along with the entire family. Sangohsti. Dr AK Singh, DG Life and I think yoga can help a lot in Yoga classes were restarted by NPOL Sciences, DRDO, Dr Bhuvanesh increasing the resistance of the people Women’s Welfare Association with Kumar, Director, Defence Institute in fight against the pandemic. all precautionary measures against of Physiology and Allied Sciences Speaking on the occasion Acharya corona. (DIPAS) and Dr Alka Suri, Director, Balkrishna congratulated everybody Defence Scientific Information and on International Yoga Day and Documentation Centre (DESIDOC) said that our sages had suggested were also present on the occasion. prevention as the first and foremost In his welcome address, Dr AK cure from any disease. And the Singh briefed about the significance practise of yoga and ayurveda can of the IDY. Speaking about the theme act as deterrent against any disease. of the Sanghosti, Dr Singh said that In context of COVID-19, Acharya there is no medicine to cure COVID-19 Balkrishna said persons with better but as prevention is better than cure, immunity have been able to cope the yoga can play an important role in pandemic better, and practicing yoga fighting the viral. daily would be beneficial in increasing In his address, Dr Satheesh Reddy the immunity. said, around 5000 years ago our The Sanghosti was organised great rishis identified the techniques jointly by DIPAS and DESIDOC. to hone the mind and the body. Yoga is a big gift India has given to NPOL, Kochi humankind. DIPAS, one of the life Naval Physical and Oceanographic

14 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Events DRDO newsletter

Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar’s Jayanti

efence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), DHyderabad organized 129th Birth Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar on 29 April 2020. Dr G Madhusudhan Reddy, Director, DMRL was the the Chief Guest on the occasion. Dr G Appa Rao, Sc ‘G’ highlighted the contributions of Dr Ambedkar with special emphasis on constitutional provisions made by Dr Ambedkar to bring social justice and economic/political empowerment to the Indian society. Dr G Madhusudhan Reddy, in his address brought out various aspects of Dr Ambedkar’s life including his academic achievements despite drafting Indian Constitution referred Shri K Srikanth Goud, President, several hardships. He also elaborated time and again to lead the nation and DEFMETLAB Employees Union the eminent leadership qualities and maintain the equal rights of every & JCM-III Member, Shri Vishnu political career of Dr Ambedkar. citizen. Dr G Jagan Reddy, Sc ‘G’ Kumar, Shri Raju also spoke about He brought out his contributions in and Chairman Works Committee, Dr Ambedkar and his contributions. International Women’s Day he International Women’s Day-2020 was celebrated by TDMRL on 13 March 2020 at Tamhankar Auditorium with great enthusiasm. Ms Anjali Kumari, Sc ‘C’ and Convenor, DMRL Women’s Cell, presented annual report on the activities of Women’s Cell during 2019. She elaborated the achievements of women employees of DMRL. Dr G Madhusudhan Reddy, Director, DMRL appreciated all the women employees for their efforts made in the field of material science and encouraged them for their future endeavours. Chief Guest for gave an informative speech on women safety at work place in building the programme Prof. K Laxmi, Ex “Innovate for Change: Empowering vibrant and successful women who Principal, University College of Arts & Women in Different Dimensions.” can take the country forward. Social Sciences, Osmania University, She emphasized on the importance of

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 15 Events

National technology Day National Technology Day (NTD) is celebrated on 11 May every year to commemorate India’s successful nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998. Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), Bengaluru, celebrated the day by organising scientific events. Shri Siddhartha Banerjee, Sc ‘F’, delivered NTD oration on “Enterprise Artificial Intelligence System Development for Defence.” He was presented NTD Medal and Certificate by Dr Upendra Kumar Singh, Director, CAIR. National Science Day National Science Day (NSD) was celebrated at Advanced Numerical Research & Analysis Group (ANURAG), Hyderabad on 28 February 2020. The program began with Science Day address by Dr Manuj Sharma, Officiating Director, ANURAG. Smt J Nalini Vidyulatha, Sc ’E’ presented NSD Oration on “Microwave Photonics Using Silicon Photonic Technology.” Smt Nalini was presented the National Science Day Medal and Certificate.

Societal Activity DRDO Mahila Kalyan Manch (MKM) proffered help to the needy persons in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. Smt A Padmavathi, President MKM, distributed food packets daily to the indigent for more than a month. Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), also distributed food to the poor and needy people at various places in Visakhapatnam.

Smt A Padmavathi, President MKM, F helping the needy persons.

16 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in DRDO SERIES DRDO newsletter

DRDO Harnessing Science for Peace & Security Chapter 4: marching forward The article is 52nd in the Series of extracts of the monograph, “Defence Research & Development Organisation: 1958-1982”, by Shri RP Shenoy, former Director of Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE).

NAVAL SYSTEMS scientific support and consultancy to the hulls of naval from corrosion. LABORATORIES the Naval fleet. In the field of services to the , the Right from the early 1950s, it was Laboratory carried out assessment Three laboratories in the DRDO recognised that the twin problems, on the serviceability of paints, quality namely, Naval Materials Research namely, marine corrosion and marine assurance of paint samples and Laboratory (NMRL) at Ambernath bio-fouling were very severe in Indian supply of marine paints developed by (earlier at Mumbai), the Naval tropical waters and that the protective it, till the formal production base was Physical and Oceanographic coatings which were imported from established. Laboratory (NPOL) at Kochi, and abroad were not fully meeting Navy’s Marine Corrosion and Bio-fouling the Naval Science and Technological requirements. The development of – In the early 1970s, with the expansion Laboratory (NSTL) at Vishakapatnam, anti-corrosive, anti-fouling coatings, of the fleet and with the limitations of work exclusively on science and therefore, received top priority, the dry-docking and shore facilities technology solutions for the problems and by mid 1960s, the laboratory which remained almost unchanged, encountered by the . The had successfully developed paints the Laboratory recognised the need Indian Navy is amongst one of the based on oleo resins. These were for developing coatings that would most conscious users of the sea who immediately introduced in service offer longer protective life. The second fully recognise and understand the by the Navy in 1966. These coatings generation effort in this direction difficulties and problems associated offered, corrosion-and fouling-free led to the development of coatings with this environment and has life of 9 months, which was better than based on synthetic (vinyl) resins. therefore been working very closely the performance of those imported These coatings helped to enhance the with the three laboratories. NMRL from abroad. The know-how was inter-docking period from 9 months (as Naval Chemical & Laboratory) transferred to the industry and the to 18 months to the great advantage antedate DRDO whereas NSTL came maintenance of seagoing vessels was of the users. NMRL also successfully into existence in 1969. considerably eased. developed the next generation marine Naval Materials Research Antifouling paints based on anti-fouling ship-hull paint based on Laboratory organic toxins instead of conventional tributyl tin methacrylate copolymers cuprous oxide and anti-corrosion which made it possible to extend the The main objectives of NMRL are paints containing magnesium were fouling-free life to three years and providing protective measures against also developed. These contributions thus reduce frequent dry-dockings. marine corrosion and bio-fouling led to the Navy designating the NMRL These paints were self-polishing, growth, conducting investigations as the agency for formulating national have low toxicity and are compatible related to pollution of both marine specifications for paints to be used with other paints. The Laboratory and atmospheric environments, by the Navy. It greatly helped the transferred the know-how to industry developing marine materials with industry in meeting the requirements so that commercial production and reference to piezoelectric transducer of the Navy. Another significant supply to Navy would be possible. (PZT) materials, acoustic polymers contribution was the development of To provide better and longer and welding technology of exotic a cathodic protection system based on protection against corrosion and metals like titanium and rendering aluminium alloy anodes for protecting fouling, the Laboratory carried out

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 17 DRDO SERIES investigations and developed paints were widely used, not only by the by the ICCP systems. The ICCP system based on chlorinated rubber resin Indian Navy but also by the shipping found wide use in the vessels of the and coal tar. These were found to and aviation industries in the public Indian Navy, including the Leander have good adhesion over chipped sector. constructed at Mazagaon and wire-brushed surfaces and after For the protection of submerged Docks, Bombay. Efforts were launched evaluation, were accepted by the Navy surfaces of seagoing vessels coated to get the industry to fabricate the for introduction into service. with anti-corrosive paints, the ICCP system and to install it on the NMRL also developed a solvent- Laboratory developed the cathodic vessels. Interest was also shown by a less epoxy two-pack trowelling protection system using galvanic foreign Navy in getting the ICCP fitted compound for application to wet steel systems and the impressed current to its fleet. substrates against corrosion. For systems. The structure to be protected The variety of paints and ICCP example, the steel sheet pilings, which would act as a cathode and the material system for protection of ships’ hulls extend from below the mudline of used for protecting the surface would and other underwater structures harbour to above the intertidal zone, undergo dissolution by galvanic successfully developed by the exhibited greatest corrosion in the action. Generally, commercial laboratory resulted in operational splash zone and maintenance by means magnesium, zinc, or aluminium in benefits to the Navy. The spin off from of in-situ application of protective alloy form would constitute the anode. these technologies were also utilised coatings was not satisfactory due to The cathodic protection of NMRL was by Oil and Natural Gas Commission, intermittent splash and wetting by based on aluminium alloy anodes Shipping Corporation of India and the the tidal movements. NMRL’s coating from indigenously available high Coast Guard. has been found to withstand most purity aluminium. The advantage of Use of Chlorine as an Anti-foulant rigorous conditions of splash at the aluminium over other metals arose out – In some marine applications such pilings, where the assessed corrosion of its high energy capability, long life, as coolant water intakes of thermal was as high as 25 mils per year. The lightweight and low cost. The cathodic or nuclear power stations, where the most important characteristic of the method using aluminium anodes use of marine coatings to prevent the NMRL coating was its firm adhesion provided protection to the underwater growth of marine fouling organisms on wet surfaces due to the curing hull and sea water systems of patrol was not possible, the Laboratory agent developed at the Laboratory. boats and other vessels from marine found the use of chlorine as more Other characteristics included, fast attack and increased their active life appropriate. Whereas, chlorine is drying (4 hr drying time), higher dry by preventing corrosion. In general, a effective as an anti-foulant, it may, film thickness per single coat (about galvanic anode would be economical when released in large quantities 10 to 12 mils per average), corrosion when used in conjunction with paints, in the marine environment, could resistance to alkaline and acidic since a painted surface by itself would adversely affect the life of economic solutions, resistance to diesel, fuel not afford complete protection. The value in the marine biota. The oil and common organic solvents, impressed current cathodic protection introduction of chlorine in the sea, resistance to sea water splash, good (ICCP) system was a sophisticated therefore, needed to be executed very flexibility, impact resistance and technique and as developed by NMRL judiciously. Based on experiments, scratch resistance. consisted of inert anodes, reference NMRL generated a good deal of During the two decades, NCML electrodes, dielectric shield, and information on the chlorination in developed a variety of coatings based automatic control system. It would the marine environment, particularly on indigenous raw materials. Some provide optimal protection against with relevance to the life of economic of the paints were ship primers, anti- corrosion even under deteriorated value. condensation paints, anti-skid paints, paint conditions. Underwater hulls, -based fire- retardant paints and inlet systems and sea water systems chemical-milling primers used in of missile boats, and the aviation industry. All these coatings supply ship would be protected better To be continued...

18 July 2020 www.drdo.gov.in Visits DRDO newsletter

www.drdo.gov.in July 2020 19 Personnel news

Personnel News Appointment for . As Team Leader, Indian Air Force, Revathi for Indian he has been the driving force in Navy, 3-D Tactical Control Radar for Shri P Radhakrishna, establishing a family of 3-D Medium , all of them have been Scientist ‘H’ has Range Surveillance with DSP- productionised and deployed. assumed the based Parallel and Programmable He headed the Airborne Radars charge of Director, Signal Processor and Digital Receiver Division responsible for development Electronics & Radar Technologies. of Primary Radar for AEW&C, Development Estab- He functioned as Group Head Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) lishment (LRDE), of Radar Signal Processing Group for UAV and Active Electronically Bengaluru, w.e.f. 1 April 2020. providing signal processing solutions Scanned Array (AESA) Radar for LCA. He received his B.E in Electronics for various radar systems. He played He has been Associate Director & Communications Engineering from a nodal role in the Radar Signal (Systems) with additional charge Andhra University and obtained Processing, Processor Technologies as Associate Director (HR) prior to his M.Tech in E&ECE (Computer and Radar Systems Engineering assuming charge as Director, LRDE. Engineering) from IIT, Kharagpur. activities in the organization. He is recipient of various awards He joined LRDE in 1988 as Sc ’B’. He He contributed for various Radar including IETE-IRSI Award and started his career in the field of Radar Development Projects including DRDO Scientist of the Year Award. His Signal Processing and over a period Rajendra Multifunction Phased Array areas of interest include Radar Signal of time graduated himself into Radar Radar of Weapon System, Processing & Processor Architectures, Systems. Weapon Locating Radar, a family Radar Systems Engineering, He played a major role and made of 3-D Surveillance Radars namely Active Phased Array Technologies, significant contributions in the design 3-D Central Acquisition Radar for Multistatic Radar Technologies and and development of Signal Processor Akash Weapon System, Rohini for Very Long Range Radar Technologies.

AWARDS awarded “National Award for Women award. Dr Harsh Vardhan, Minister Development through Application of of Science & Technology, Health and National Award for Women S&T-2019” for Individual Category Family Welfare and Earth Sciences Development through for young woman showing excellence also graced the occasion. Application of S&T through application of technology on Best Oral Presentation National Science Day celebrated at Dr Shweta Rawat, Sc ‘E’, Award Defence Institute of Physiology Vigyan Bhawan. Hon’ble President Dr U Ravi Kiran, and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), was Ram Nath Kovind presented the Sc ‘E’, DMRL has been awarded the “Best Oral Presentation Award” for his paper titled ‘Investigation on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of W-Cu Composite prepared by Sintering and Infiltration’ presented at the International Conference on Multifunctional Materials (ICCM) held at Hyderabad.

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