New Delhi, India: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully demonstrated hydrogen fuel-cell technology to power its air defence radars in collaboration with NTPC and the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The initiative aims to provide cleaner and more reliable electricity for critical defence operations, particularly in remote locations where conventional power supplies can be difficult to maintain.
The demonstration was highlighted during the 50th anniversary celebrations of the IAF's 13 Base Repair Depot (13 BRD) at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. The event featured a seminar titled Air Defence 2040: Sensors, Networks & Sovereign Sustainment.
How Hydrogen Fuel Cells Work
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through an electrochemical reaction rather than burning fuel. Hydrogen is supplied to the anode, where a catalyst separates it into protons and electrons. The electrons travel through an external circuit, generating electricity, while the protons pass through an electrolyte membrane.
At the cathode, hydrogen protons combine with electrons and oxygen from the air to produce water and heat. The electricity generated can then be supplied to radar equipment and its supporting systems. Multiple individual cells are connected in a stack to produce the required power.
For military applications, this technology can provide an alternative to conventional diesel generators, potentially reducing fuel transportation requirements, local emissions and dependence on regular fuel deliveries.
Countries Developing Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology
Japan, South Korea, the United States, China and Germany are among the countries with established hydrogen fuel-cell research, manufacturing or deployment programmes. Japan has a strong position in fuel-cell research, while South Korea and China have expanded fuel-cell vehicle manufacturing and deployment. The United States and Germany also have established fuel-cell industries.
13 BRD's Role in Air Defence Support
Established in 1976, 13 BRD specialises in the repair, overhaul and life-cycle support of critical radar and communication equipment. During the seminar, Air Marshal Yalla Umesh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Maintenance Command, stressed the importance of sovereign sustainment and developing domestic capabilities to diagnose, repair and restore sophisticated defence systems.
The seminar also covered quantum sensing, radar modernisation, life-cycle management and network-centric air defence systems. The hydrogen fuel-cell demonstration adds clean-energy technology to the IAF's efforts to improve the reliability and availability of its air defence infrastructure.
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