The Indian Army is moving ahead with a plan to procure about 350 portable explosive detection systems for counter-IED operations. The devices are meant to identify threats from a safe distance without direct physical contact, a step aimed at bomb disposal and counter-terror work.
The Army’s Combat Engineers Directorate has issued a Request For Information for hand-held explosive detection systems. The equipment is expected to give clear detection results in less than 30 seconds and to identify explosive threats and other specified traces across different forms.
Combat Engineers Directorate
Recent security operations across different parts of India have led to the recovery and neutralisation of multiple explosive devices. Against that backdrop, the planned purchase places a premium on speed and mobility, because teams handling suspicious objects need a tool that can give a reading quickly and without direct contact.
The procurement is being processed under categories that prioritize Indian industry participation. Manufacturers are expected to demonstrate substantial indigenous content, tying the request to Make In India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Counter-IED operations
Improvised Explosive Devices remain one of the most dangerous weapons used by terrorists and insurgent groups because they can be hidden easily and triggered remotely. The Army’s request is built around that threat, with detectors intended to work across different forms and give teams a safer way to check suspicious material before anyone moves closer.
The immediate question now is which Indian manufacturers can meet the Army’s requirements for portability, quick results and indigenous content. Until that procurement advances, the request itself sets the standard the equipment will have to clear: fast detection, safe-distance use and enough flexibility to handle the threats the Army is seeing on the ground.
