The Indian Army has unveiled two groundbreaking events, HIM-DRONE-A-THON-2 and HIMTECH-2024, aimed at harnessing military technologies for operations in high altitude areas. These events will showcase the capabilities of indigenous drone solutions and promote the development of tailored solutions for the Indian Army’s unique operational requirements.The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), will conduct two landmark events—HIMTECH-2024 and HIM-DRONE-A-THON-2 in Leh, Ladakh.
HIM-DRONE-A-THON-2: Showcasing Drone Capabilities
HIM-DRONE-A-THON-2 will take place on September 17-18, 2024, at Wari La, near Leh, and will focus on drone solutions for high altitude areas. The event will be conducted under actual terrain and environmental conditions at an altitude of 4000-5000 meters. Over 25 indigenous drone manufacturers have registered to participate, competing to demonstrate their suitability and capabilities in surveillance, loitering munitions, logistics, swarm drones, and more.
HIMTECH-2024: Harnessing Technology for High Altitude Operations
HIMTECH-2024, scheduled for September 20-21, 2024, will discuss, demonstrate, and discover new avenues for development and incorporation of technology, ideas, and innovations. The event will focus on harnessing military technologies for high altitude areas and provide a platform for Indian industries to showcase equipment and technologies, including modern unmanned systems, all-terrain mobility solutions, autonomous systems, and advanced soldier systems.
Maj Gen C.S Mann of Indian Army underlined the significance of the event in enhancing the efficiency of the Indian Army through the adoption of cutting-edge indigenous products. Gen Mann emphasised that the induction of drones has been a significant focus for the Indian Army as part of its broader modernisation program to prepare for future operations, operational readiness, agility, and adaptability, especially in high-altitude operations in Ladakh.
Empowering Indigenous Industry and Civilian Applications
The success of indigenous drone manufacturers in these events can establish India as a credible drone manufacturing hub, opening up international opportunities. Additionally, the technology demonstrated can be harnessed for civilian use in high altitude areas, such as the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Maj Gen P.S.Bhatti, Northern Command introduced the theme of HIMTECH 2024 as ‘Harnessing Military Technology for High Altitude Areas.’ Gen Bhatti highlighted the goal of promoting Leh, Ladakh, as a new business destination for modern technology developers, industries, and academic institutions during the exposition and drone-a-thon.
Asish Kansal, Co-Chair of FICCI Defence and Homeland Security stressed the importance of HIMTECH 2024 as a critical juncture for the Indian industry to innovate and collaborate with the armed forces.