Why in the news? 

The Indian Army is observing the year 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’.

• The Indian military is moving in the right direction, but the challenge lies in sustaining technology absorption with a nuanced understanding of the requirements

What is Technology absorption in terms of disruptive technology (DT)?

It comprises Artificial intelligence, Autonomous Weapon Systems such as drones, sensors, robotics, space technology, and hypersonic weapon systems (also called Legacy Systems)

Challenges in Technology absorption:

• Compatibility issues: Incorporating new technologies into existing structures or systems, known as legacy systems, can be challenging due to compatibility issues and the need for adaptation.
• More time in Training and Skills Development: Ensuring that personnel are adequately trained to operate and maintain new technologies is crucial. The acquisition of technical skills and knowledge may require significant investment and time.
• Lack of Resource: Limited resources, both financial and human, may constrain the absorption of technologies because need to require more funds to maintain preexisting military hardware. Due to this military has left very less amount of money to the absorption of technologies
• Cybersecurity Concerns: With the integration of advanced technologies comes the risk of cyber threats and vulnerabilities. Safeguarding systems and networks against cyber-attacks becomes paramount.
• Supply Chain Management: Dependence on external suppliers for critical components or technologies can introduce risks related to reliability, availability, and security of supply chains like fighter jet engine import from the USA

Technological Absorption needs to be governed organically:

• Acknowledge the Sensitivity: Recognize existing vulnerabilities and sensitivities within the military structure and operations. Identify gaps between current capabilities and future needs.
• Need to Understand Latest Technologies:  Understanding the latest advancements in technology and their potential applications in military operations. Understand the context in which these technologies can be effectively utilized.
• Integrating at Unit-Level: Ensure that technology absorption is not limited to higher levels of command but is visibly manifested at the unit level. Democratize the use of technology to empower frontline personnel.
• Macro-Level Aspects: Address macro-level aspects such as organizational restructuring, human resource management, cultivation of specialists at various levels, civil-military fusion, data integrity management, and procurement policies tailored for Defense Technologies (DTs).
• Learn from Recent Wars: Analyze lessons learned from recent and ongoing conflicts to inform future planning and decision-making like the Russia Conflict

Mains question for practice 

Q Discuss the Challenges in Technology absorption in terms of disruptive technology (DT).And give suggestive measures to resolve the challenges

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