The first-ever micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) defence expo in Pimpri-Chinchwad city of the Pune district in Maharashtra kicked off on Saturday.
The expo is being organised by state government and was inaugurated by state chief Eknath Shinde.
According to media reports, more than 500 MSMEs working in defence sector will be showcasing their niche products developed or being developed for the Indian Armed Forces.
Earlier on Friday, Maharashtra state Industry Minister Uday Sawant told media that at least 50,000 college and school students are likely to attend the expo.
“We have encouraged engineering colleges to take advantage of the platform to understand the requirements of defence industries. It will help engineering students to pursue a career in defence sector,” Sawant stated.
Calling the expo a “great initiative” of the Maharashtra state government, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral R Hari Kumar said that “MSMEs will play a crucial role in the Indian Navy’s commitment to become self-reliant by 2047. Through this expo, the companies will come to know our requirements.”
The first-of-its-kind expo is crucial for the MSME sector as it plays a key role in ‘Make in India’ initiative in terms of manufacturing of defence equipment.
Mounted Gun System Unveiled
Artillery plays a pivotal role in ground warfare, providing crucial support through indirect fire and accurate targeting. To enhance the capabilities of the Indian Army, DRDO developed a 155 mm/52 calibre Towed Artillery Gun, now successfully put into service. To ensure mobility for mobile warfare challenges, VRDE created the Mounted Gun System (MGS), utilizing an 8x8 high-mobility vehicle with stabilization features for firing stability.
After design and development, mobility trials were conducted at VRDE on desert and cross-country tracks. Firing trials at the Pokhran Field firing ranges included range firing, consistency tests, arc of fire and direct fire covering various firing angles and zones.