The project aims at making the soldier independent with an increased decision-making capacity. "Such a soldier will be a unit by himself. He will able to see, constantly communicate with the unit and fight," ARDE's Director A.S. Rajagopal told The Hindu here. Quite a few other countries also have begun similar projects to have "smart and intelligent" soldiers for future battlefield situations. While part of the system is expected to be delivered in three to four years, the project is likely to be completed in seven years.
ARDE has also developed a unique canopy severance system for the multi-role Light Combat Aircraft under which the roof gets fragmented and enables the pilot to parachute to safety during emergencies. Its distinct advantage is that the canopy breaks open without injuring the pilot, just at the pull of a handle.
The pilot can be rescued even if he is unconscious during a crash-landing by the pull of a similar external handle. The system was mounted, tested and cleared by the United Kingdom-based Martin Bakers firm that developed the seat for the LCA.
