Military Combat Parachute System Maximum 32,000-Foot Combat Jump

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed the Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) which has successfully made a combat freefall jump of 32,000 feet the highest ever recorded by an indigenous parachute system. This is the first feat to be performed by Indian Air Force test jumpers and the feat has brought significant progress to the airborne operational capabilities of India.

Key Development

• Under DRDO, it is designed by ADRDE (Agra) and DEBEL (Bengaluru).
• Constructed to carry out high-altitude special missions and airborne missions.
• Characterized by low rate of descent, accurate steering and safer canopy deployment.

Technological Highlights

• Combined with the satellite navigation system of India, the NavIC, to perform proper navigation without relying on foreign GPS.
• Immunity to interference with signals and electronic interference, important when on hostile missions.
• Provides HAHO (High Altitude High Opening), as well as HALO (High Altitude Low Opening) jumps.

Operational Significance

• The Indian Armed Forces the first and only system of parachute that can be deployed to an altitude of more than 25,000 feet.
• Less dependence on imported systems, which is similar to Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
• Allows the quick insertion of the special forces behind enemy lines and in tougher terrain.

Strategic Benefits

• Reduces the turn around time of maintenance because it is designed locally.
• Increases mission preparedness in times of war and emergency missions.
• Provides the future prospects of indigenous air delivery and combat equipment.

Official Response

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO and the Armed Forces saying it was a milestone in the defence preparedness of India.
• According to Dr Samir V. Kamat, DRDO Chairman, it was a giant step towards self-sufficiency in high-altitude operation systems.

Future Outlook

• MCPS shall be inducted to be used in special operations units.
• More developments can be made such as incorporation of oxygen systems and night operation equipment.
• Signified the beginning of a new age of native warfare agility as well as flying technology.