India MoD to Procure 12,056 Multi-Spectral Camouflage Nets: Advancing Battlefield Stealth and ‘Make in India’ Vision

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is taking a significant step toward bolstering the Indian Army's operational capabilities and promoting domestic manufacturing. The planned procurement of over 12,000 Multi-Spectral Camouflage Nets (MSCNs) aligns with the government's 'Make in India' initiative, aiming to enhance battlefield survivability and reduce dependence on foreign technology.

The MSCNs are cutting-edge camouflage solutions designed to provide comprehensive concealment across multiple electromagnetic (EM) spectrums. These nets are capable of masking critical military assets—such as tanks, radars, and command posts—from detection by modern surveillance systems. Their advanced design ensures signature suppression in visible, infrared (IR), thermal infrared (TIR), and radar frequency ranges, offering robust protection across diverse terrains and weather conditions.

Advanced Multi-Spectral Capabilities

The MSCNs are engineered to operate effectively in regions with varying terrains, from the fertile plains of Punjab to the dense forests of Northeast India. Their functionality is tailored to specific operational wavelengths:

• Visual Range (380–780 nm): These nets incorporate patterns that adhere to Indian Standard Colour (ISC) codes, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the local environment. Vendors have the flexibility to modify color ratios within specified parameters to ensure maximum camouflage effectiveness.

• Infrared and Thermal Infrared (TIR): The nets suppress heat emissions, reducing the chances of detection by thermal imaging equipment widely used in modern warfare.

• Radar Spectrum: Advanced materials and design features help reduce radar cross-section, minimizing electromagnetic signatures that could reveal equipment locations.

Indigenous Manufacturing and 'Make in India'

In line with India's self-reliance goals, the MoD has mandated that at least 63% of the MSCNs’ components must be sourced locally. This ensures active participation from Indian manufacturers and boosts the domestic defence supply chain. Vendors are required to provide thorough documentation demonstrating compliance with this indigenous content requirement, promoting accountability and transparency in the procurement process.

The project is expected to invigorate local manufacturing industries, encouraging innovation in materials science and production techniques. It also reduces dependency on foreign suppliers, which is critical in maintaining the security of India’s defence ecosystem.

Operational Significance

The MSCNs are vital for modern warfare, where detection technology has advanced significantly. Their ability to obscure equipment and personnel from visual and electronic surveillance provides a strategic advantage. By enhancing camouflage, the nets contribute to the survivability of high-value assets on the battlefield.

Vendor Selection Process

To facilitate this procurement, the MoD has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) inviting potential vendors to showcase their capability to meet stringent technical and indigenous content requirements. The selected vendor will not only supply the nets but also play a critical role in ensuring their deployment and operational success in the field.

Building a Self-Reliant Defence Future

This initiative underscores India's commitment to modernizing its armed forces while fostering self-reliance in defence production. By combining advanced technology with indigenous manufacturing, the procurement of MSCNs marks a critical step forward in both operational readiness and economic development. As the Indian Army embraces these innovative camouflage solutions, it not only strengthens its defences but also reinforces the nation's vision of achieving technological independence.