Team Blitz India
GIVEN the changing nature of the future wars, the Army has raised an elite unit that will undertake research and evaluation of futuristic communication technologies like 6G, artificial intelligence, machine learning and quantum computing for military use.
The Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group or STEAG is mandated to nurture technologies spanning the complete spectrum of wired and wireless systems, officials said.
The setting up of STEAG is part of the Army’s efforts to develop technologies considering the future battlefield, they said.
“It will be a premier organisation, the first of its kind equipped with the capability to harness niche technology, leverage cutting-edge solutions and identify suitable cases for defence applications by fostering collaboration with academia and industry,” according to one of the officials.
The elite unit will focus on all upcoming critical technology domains, including electronic exchanges, mobile communications, softwaredefined radios, electronic warfare systems, 5G and 6G networks, quantum technologies, AI, machine learning, etc., he said.
The hi-tech unit will carry out technical scouting, evaluation, development, and management of core ICT solutions, and provide user interface support by maintenance and upgradation of contemporary technologies available in the environment, the official added.
The new Centre of Excellence is expected to be a game changer in fostering self-reliance in high-end communication technologies, which have thus far been a monopoly of select countries with advanced economies and research ecosystems, he said. The Army believes communications are going to be an important component of military operations.