The inaugural edition of the Tri Services Academia Technology Symposium (T-SATS) began at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, aiming to enhance collaboration between the military and academic institutions to foster the development of innovative technologies for the Indian Armed Forces. The event was officially inaugurated by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan.
The symposium brought together directors and department heads from leading academic and R&D institutions, as well as students from 62 institutes, which included renowned entities such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), and Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), in addition to various private technology colleges.
In his keynote address, the CDS underscored the shifting landscape of modern warfare characterized by the integration of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. He stressed the necessity for advanced technological solutions and the importance of collaboration among academia, startups, and industries. He further pointed out that developing indigenous capabilities across diverse platforms, weaponry, and networks is essential to align with future operational needs. By advocating for a comprehensive national approach, he encouraged academic institutions to accelerate innovation in hopes of positioning India as a leader in next-generation defense technologies.
The event included a Technology Exhibition, showcasing 43 innovative projects selected by academia, which were evaluated by experts from the three branches of the Services for potential military applications. Several promising projects identified during this exhibition will be eligible for R&D collaboration and financial support.
A notable aspect of the symposium was its facilitation of structured one-on-one meetings—95 in total—between academic innovators and representatives from the military services. These meetings provided an invaluable platform for individuals to propose R&D ideas and receive strategic insights on how to transition their concepts into applicable military implementations.
Throughout the day, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were finalized with various academic institutions, including Ajeenkya DY Patil University, IIT Madras, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and MS Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, among others.
Themed “Vivek va Anusandhan se Vijay” (Victory through Wisdom and Research), T-SATS signifies a pivotal move towards a more integrated partnership between academia and the Armed Forces. This initiative aims to cultivate sustainable collaboration that will yield future-ready solutions for the nation’s security needs.
