Indian Army displays Xploder Kamikaze Drone and MRMS System at Aero India: BENGALURU – The Indian Army showcased its commitment to indigenous innovation and technological advancement at Aero India 2025, unveiling two remarkable systems developed by Major Rajprasad RS of the Corps of Engineers. The “Xploder-Kamikaze and IED Disposal RoV” and the “MRMS- Mobile Reactive Munition System” were presented at the India Pavilion, drawing the attention of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the Service Chiefs, and other senior military and civilian dignitaries.
Major Rajprasad’s innovations, developed in-house by the officer of 7 Engineer Regiment, highlight the Indian Army’s push for self-reliance in defense technology. These systems offer significant advancements in robotic warfare, counter-IED capabilities, and mine warfare, promising to enhance the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness.
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Xploder UGV: A Versatile Robotic Platform
The Xploder Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) is a versatile, all-terrain platform designed for a multitude of combat roles. Its capabilities include unmanned reconnaissance and surveillance, delivery of explosive payloads, remote disposal of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and even a kamikaze role during hideout clearance operations. The Xploder’s adaptability also extends to disaster relief operations, making it a valuable asset in various scenarios.
The Xploder UGV has already been cleared for mass procurement and induction into the Indian Army, a testament to its promising capabilities. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi formally launched the innovation for induction in December 2024.
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Indian Army’s MRMS.
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MRMS: Revolutionizing Mine Warfare
The Mobile Reactive Munition System (MRMS) represents a significant leap forward in mine warfare technology. This advanced mobile anti-tank mine is designed for remote deployment via aerial platforms, such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or Vehicle-Based Mine Delivery Systems (VBMS).
Once deployed, the MRMS utilizes sophisticated targeting algorithms to detect and track enemy assets. Its unique “spider-like” mobility allows it to stealthily maneuver towards its target, even crawling beneath armored vehicles for optimal engagement. Upon contact, the MRMS is designed to detonate, effectively neutralizing enemy armor. Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), a Nagpur-based Solar Group company, will be the explosive partner for the munition.
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A Trail of Innovation
Major Rajprasad’s contributions to the Indian Army’s technological modernization are noteworthy. Within just six months, three of his innovations – the “Vidyut Rakshak- IoT enabled Generator Monitoring Protection and Control System,” the “Agniastra- Multi Target Portable Remote Detonation System,” and the Xploder – have been launched for induction. Previously, his “WEDC- Wireless Electronic Detonation System” was also inducted.
Importantly, these innovations have not only been developed in-house but also successfully transitioned to mass production through Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreements. The Army Design Bureau (ADB), facilitated by the Foundation of Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), granted ToTs to private defense companies, fostering a robust manufacturing ecosystem and contributing to the “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) initiative.
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The capabilities of Major Rajprasad’s innovations have been showcased at various national events, garnering attention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. This recognition underscores the significance of these technologies for the Indian Army.
The Indian Army’s active pursuit of indigenous innovation, particularly during this “Year of Tech Absorption,” highlights its commitment to becoming a modernized, tech-infused, and transformative force. The unveiling of the Xploder and MRMS systems at Aero India 2025 serves as a powerful demonstration of this commitment. These advancements not only enhance the Indian Army’s combat capabilities but also strengthen India’s self-reliance in critical defense technologies.
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