New Delhi: The Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group (STEAG), an elite technology unit established by the Indian Army, will conduct research and evaluation of cutting-edge communication technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, 5G and 6G, and quantum technologies, among others, for use in defence applications.
An essential part of military operations is communication. The side with superior communication technology and the capacity to establish connections with other stakeholders for the exchange of information will have a competitive advantage over its rivals in the rapidly developing field of military technology.
To ensure that units and formations have uninterrupted communication support during operations, modern warfare demands the introduction of new equipment. The Indian Army established the ground-breaking STEAG unit, which will improve its digital capabilities, to absorb these technological breakthroughs.
- The full range of wired and wireless systems, such as electronic exchanges, mobile communications, Software Radios (SDR), Electronic Warfare Systems (EWS), 5G and 6G networks, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning, will be nurtured and developed at STEAG.
- It will be a top-tier organization—the first of its kind—capable of utilizing niche technology, utilizing state-of-the-art solutions, and locating appropriate use cases for defence applications through partnerships and collaboration with academia and industry.
- In addition to performing technical reconnaissance, evaluation, development, and management of the core ICT solutions, the high-tech unit will support user interfaces through maintenance and upgrades of current environmental technologies.
- STEAG will assist in bridging the gap between the armed services and business and academics by aligning with the principles of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Start-Up India.
- About promoting self-reliance in high-end communication technologies—which have hitherto been the exclusive domain of a few chosen nations with developed economies and research ecosystems—the new centre of excellence is predicted to be a game changer.
