Rs7,796-cr project to strengthen telecom network along LAC

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, October 1

Just days after reports emerged about China setting up a high-speed communication network on its side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Cabinet Committee on Security led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has okayed a technological upgrade for Indian military communication systems.

The move will make the network technology more robust, extending its reach to the furthest areas along the LAC, Line of Control (LoC) and international borders.

The Rs 7,796-crore project, given to Indian Telephone Industries (ITI), a public sector undertaking, will be completed in 36 months from the date of signing of the contract.

It will focus on strategic and theatre area communication network to upgrade the existing system.

The project will be based on Internet protocol and will use optical fibre cable, and microwave radio and satellite data to communicate.

The Ministry of Defence said the project would provide better survivability, responsiveness and high bandwidth in any operational scenario and enhance the communication coverage.

The network would provide high bandwidth communication to remote operational areas in central and eastern sectors. In the western sector, where high bandwidth already exists, the new system will further strengthen the network.

“The project will provide a boost to the operational preparedness of the Indian Army, especially keeping in view of the current operational situation at the Line of Actual Control,” the Ministry of Defence said.

The project, which will have approximately 80 per cent indigenous content, will utilise local resources and manpower.

It will generate employment opportunities, especially for people in remote border areas.