Pune/New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed an indigenous signal star naval flare for the Indian Navy’s Kalvari-class submarines. The system, designed by DRDO’s High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune, was formally handed over to the Directorate General – Naval Armament Inspection (DG-NAI) in a ceremony marking its official induction.
Boosting Submarine Communication and Survivability
The signal star naval flare is a specialised underwater pyrotechnic device engineered for tactical communication. Deployed through the submarine’s signal ejector, it rises through the water column before activating at the surface via a hydrostatic mechanism.
On ignition, the flare produces an intense star-like light visible over long distances. Its brightness ensures effective communication during adverse weather and night operations, enhancing submarine survivability and operational coordination.
Dual-Colour Tactical Capability
A defining feature of the flare is its dual-colour signalling system. The red flare is designated for distress alerts, emergencies, and urgent tactical communication. The green flare serves as a recognition and identification tool, particularly useful during coordinated fleet manoeuvres.
This flexibility enables submarines to maintain reliable communication with surface vessels and aircraft. It also strengthens coherence during joint naval exercises and operational missions.
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Engineered for Reliability in Harsh Environments
The system’s pressure-resistant casing ensures reliability under high hydrostatic pressures encountered during submarine operations. Designed for long shelf-life and durability, the flare reflects India’s advancements in pyrotechnics, structural engineering, and naval materials science.
Its applications extend beyond wartime operations. The flare can mark emergency locations, identify friendly vessels, and support training exercises, providing both tactical and peacetime utility.
Strengthening Atmanirbhar Bharat in Naval Technology
The indigenisation of the naval flare eliminates dependence on foreign suppliers for a critical underwater communication system. This strengthens India’s naval logistics while directly contributing to defence self-reliance.
Officials highlighted that the achievement enhances the operational readiness of the Navy while establishing DRDO’s leadership in areas historically dominated by foreign technology. It underscores India’s growing expertise in high-energy materials and naval warfare innovation.
Strategic Impact
The induction of the signal star naval flare marks a milestone in India’s underwater warfare capabilities. It ensures greater tactical effectiveness for Kalvari-class submarines while reinforcing the strategic goal of technological sovereignty under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
By combining operational functionality with indigenous design, the flare demonstrates India’s progress toward a robust, self-reliant defence ecosystem capable of equipping the armed forces with advanced, tailored solutions.
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