SAMBHAV: Indian Armys Secure Mobile Ecosystem Revolutionizes Communication

The Indian Army unveils SAMBHAV, an indigenous secure mobile ecosystem powered by 5G technology, ensuring instant and encrypted communication for enhanced defence capabilities.

In a significant stride towards self-reliance and technological advancement, the Indian Army has indigenously developed a secure mobile ecosystem named SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version). This end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem operates on cutting-edge 5G technology and aims to provide secure communication with instant connectivity on the move.

Collaboration and Innovation

The SAMBHAV ecosystem has been developed in close collaboration with national centres of excellence from academia and industry. Recognizing the vulnerability of mobile networks to eavesdropping, the ecosystem employs a network-agnostic approach to ensure information security. It leverages the potential of indigenous public cellular networks and incorporates 5G-ready handsets with multi-tier encryption.

Dual-Use Infrastructure and Civil-Military Fusion

The development of the SAMBHAV ecosystem aligns with the Government of India's efforts towards dual-use infrastructure and civil-military fusion in the field of emerging technology. This initiative showcases the synergy between the defence sector and the civilian technology industry, fostering innovation and self-reliance.

Phased Implementation and Secure Applications

The Indian Army plans to configure 35,000 sets of the SAMBHAV ecosystem in two phases. The initial phase will involve configuring 2,500 sets by January 15, 2023, followed by the remaining sets by May 31, 2023. The ecosystem features indigenously developed secure applications and an operating system, marking a significant step towards achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

Multi-Layered Encryption and Commercial Network Integration

SAMBHAV incorporates multi-layered encryption to ensure secure communication across a pan-India secure ecosystem. It operates on a commercial network with inherent security, providing a reliable and protected platform for communication.

Transformation and Cyber Defence

The Indian Army is undergoing a transformative phase, aiming to achieve significant capabilities in cyberspace. Recognizing the evolving nature of warfare, the Army has established a robust cyber defence triad encompassing people, process, and technology. This approach ensures a comprehensive defence against cyber threats.

Hybrid Warfare and Cyber Operations

In the modern era, conventional capabilities alone are no longer sufficient to measure military prowess. State and non-state actors are developing means to bridge conventional asymmetries. Cyberspace has emerged as a principal domain of hybrid warfare, and the proliferation of networks and IT infrastructure in the Indian Army presents both opportunities and threats.

Command Cyber Operations Support Wings

To enhance cyber capabilities, the Indian Army is establishing Command Cyber Operations Support Wings (CCOSWs) as specialized sub-units. These CCOSWs will augment cyber capabilities and integrate them at all levels, from strategic to operational and tactical. Six CCOSWs are being established for all commands, with personnel undergoing specialist training and validation exercises.

The Indian Army's development of the SAMBHAV secure mobile ecosystem represents a major milestone in the country's defence capabilities. By leveraging indigenous technology and fostering collaboration, the Army is enhancing its communication infrastructure and ensuring secure connectivity on the move. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and demonstrates the Army's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.