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26th June 2024 (15 Topics)

Miniaturised Satellite

Context

The Defence Ministry has signed its 350th contract under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative with SpacePixxel Technologies for developing a miniaturised satellite.

What is a miniaturized satellite?

  • A miniaturized satellite, often referred to as a "CubeSat," is a type of small satellite characterized by its compact size and standardized design.
  • These satellites are typically built using cubic units known as "U" which measure 10x10x10 centimeters (1U).
  • CubeSats can be scaled up to larger sizes such as 2U, 3U, 6U, or even 12U, depending on mission requirements.
  • Strategic Advantages
  • Faster deployment: Miniaturised satellites allow for quicker and more economical deployment of space assets.
  • Scalability and adaptability: The modular design enables easy customization and scaling of capabilities as per mission requirements.
  • Reduced environmental impact: Smaller satellites generally have a lower environmental footprint compared to larger counterparts.

iDEX

  • iDEX was launched by the Department of Defence Production in 2018.
  • The Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) oversees the implementation of iDEX.
  • It aims at engaging Industries including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes & academia for defence technology to be made and fostered in India.
  • It will provide them grants/funding and other support to carry out R&D which has good potential for future adoption for Indian defence and aerospace needs.
  • iDEX aims to create an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in defence and aerospace.

Defence Innovation Organization (DIO)

  • DIO is a ‘not for profit’ company registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013.
  • Its two founding members are Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) & Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs). 
  • HAL and BEL are navratna companies.
Mains Practice Question

Q. Evaluate the role of initiatives like iDEX in promoting indigenous defence technology development. How can such programs contribute to India's strategic autonomy and defence preparedness?

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