Indian Startups iDEX ADITI Challenge to Upgrade Legacy Bombs into Smart Weapons

Defense News ,India :-  The Indian Ministry of Defence is breaking new ground in innovation through its iDEX ADITI initiative, issuing a bold challenge that beckons startups across the country to transform traditional 'dumb' bombs into intelligent, long-range weapons for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Challenge Overview: Modernizing Legacy Weapon Systems​

Central to this initiative is the imperative to cost-effectively modernize the IAF's inventory of 250 kg High-Speed Low Drag (HSLD) bombs.

The challenge is to devise a Range Extension Kit (REK) capable of significantly enhancing range and precision, converting existing bombs into guided weapons. Successful solutions must adhere to the following criteria:

1. Extended Range: Utilizing rocket or engine assistance, the REK should propel the bomb beyond 150 km under specific conditions (5 km altitude, Mach 0.8).

2. Precision Guidance: Incorporating electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) seekers and scene-matching technology to ensure accuracy in areas where GPS signals may be unreliable.

3. Operational Compatibility: Seamless integration with IAF aircraft and their bomb racks is a prerequisite.

4. Exceptional Accuracy: Achieving a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 5 meters, with an ideal target of less than 3 meters.

5. Mission Versatility: Allowing planners to select the bomb's impact angle and attack direction before launch.

6. Practical Considerations: Prioritizing user-friendliness and low maintenance requirements.

Beyond the Prototype Phase​

The Ministry of Defence's challenge entails the development and delivery of five REK prototypes, along with the necessary integration, certification, maintenance, and storage capabilities.

Yet, the potential of this technology extends far beyond the initial prototypes. The Ministry envisions adapting this technology in the future to enhance the capabilities of even heavier weapon systems.

Seizing the Strategic Opportunity​

The iDEX ADITI challenge unfolds as an exceptional opportunity for Indian startups in the defence and aerospace sectors.

Successful entrants into this challenge will directly contribute to the IAF's power projection and emerge as pivotal players in the modernization of India's indigenous defence industry.

This initiative holds the promise of transforming air-to-ground warfare, allowing the IAF to execute long-range, high-precision strikes with heightened accuracy and flexibility.