Army seeks "Lego-like" modular bunkers to protect against enemy fire
What's the story
The Indian Army is reportedly looking to induct "Lego-like modular portable, bullet and blast-proof bunkers" to guard the nation's borders against China and Pakistan's assertiveness, the Economic Times has reported. These would replace the Army's current stone-mud-log and steel bunkers. The move is part of an Army security revamp that seeks to standardize bulletproof armor for various uses, including jackets and vehicles.
Problems
Army's current bunkers vulnerable or logistically unviable
One type of Army bunkers are made of stones, muds, and logs which are vulnerable to enemy fire or inclement weather. The second type of bunkers are made of steel which requires transporting heavy materials to high-altitude areas. The steel bunkers also require huge manpower to construct and maintain and aren't flexible in providing outlets to fire weapons.
Requirement
What the new bunkers should contain
The Army has raised the issues related to the bunkers in its Compendium of Problem Statements. It's seeking solutions for lightweight composite materials that can resist enemy fire, inclement weather and needs the least manpower to construct. The material should comprise of panels which are lightweight and can be easily transported. It should resemble Lego blocks which can be assembled easily, an official said.
Information
Why the new bunkers are needed
Improving border infrastructure has become a major priority for the Indian Army especially after the Doklam Standoff with China. Meanwhile, continued ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the Line of Control and terrorist attacks targeting military installations in J&K highlight the need for more secure bunkers.