Deletedid1 Posted October 1, 2010 Report Posted October 1, 2010 The Madras Engineer Group (MEG) of the Indian army is gearing up in the fight against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially radio-controlled IEDs.The MEG, which is also known as the Madras Sappers, has crafted a blueprint that is supposed to help boost preparedness for asymmetric warfare, as well as for upgrading equipment.“Training a scholar warrior of [the] 21st century will be now our priority,” says Maj. Gen. Brajesh Kumar of army headquarters.He says the MEG is committed to be more effective in meeting the needs of today’s warfighting environment. “As the combat engineering support [arm] of the Indian army, we have a huge role to play,” he says. “Be it the conventional war or the asymmetric one, we have realized that the innovation in training using cutting-edge technology can outsmart the enemy.”Brig. Gen. Gurdip Singh, MEG commandant, tells AVIATION WEEK that as part of the army headquarters’ Project Kshamata information technology (IT) initiative with Microsoft, many army personnel are being trained in improving their IT and English skills. “Microsoft gives exposure to our master trainers in various skill sets, and they in turn train our men. The Sappers are known for their strong interpersonal bonding abilities, and we would want to turn this to the advantage of [the] army. This program is a huge confidence booster to our forces,” the commander says.MEG’s ability to innovate made headlines recently for the use of eco-friendly improvised firing targets at its ranges. “Out-of-the-box thinking is the key and the Indian army has always backed MEG’s new initiatives, which is an eye-opener for many,” Gurdip says.
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