~ By Jyotiprakash

The Instrument Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), Government of India, Ministry of Defence, and DRDO awarded the contract for Realisation of Optronic Periscopes for ICS dated 15th June 2023 to Paras Defence and Space Technologies Limited ('Paras').


The contract is for the realisation of optical periscopes, together with installation support totaling around 53 crores (excluding of any taxes).


Traditional submarines are vulnerable to detection when the periscope is used. The Optronic periscopes will provide improved surface visibility while allowing the submarine to remain hidden from sonar detection.

However, the optronic periscope uses a non-hull breaching design, in which the Sensor Head Unit extends from the submarine fin and quickly captures a 360-degree scan, sending the image to the console screens in the submarine’s operation centre. The commander can then analyse the photograph at their convenience with a lower danger of being discovered. Multi-function antenna & camera arrays are also a part of optronics periscopes; these arrays monitor the radar environment, offer command and situational awareness of other radar-equipped platforms, and allow a submarine to take immediate evasive action.

Optronic periscopes, thus increases the survival of the Submarine in Hostile enemy waters & will increase capabilities of Indian Submarines to a whole new level.

Optronic Periscopes, In addition to being used in the Royal Navy, is also being used by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force who has ordered its Optronic Periscope from Thales.

~Jyotiprakash, is a observer of Defence capabilities across the world & Writes passionately about Make in INDIA defence products