We can do an Abbottabad, says defence research chief

“We have the technological capability to undertake an Abbottabad-style surgical attack,” a confident Defence Research and Development Organisation chief and security advisor to the Union defence minister Dr VK Saraswat told DNA on the sidelines of his special talk on innovation and technology on Wednesday, National Technology Day, at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

“As a policy, we do not believe in hot pursuit. But if the policy makers take a call, we have what it takes,” he said. When reminded that the clamour to emulate the US killing of Osama bin Laden in his hideout was on the rise, the man behind the 3,000-km-range Agni missile series said: “We are a functioning democracy with all powers vested in the government. It is ultimately they who have to take a call.”

He also allayed fears of Pakistan’s nuclear armament falling into the hands of rogue elements. “The international community and India are keeping a close watch on this. There are mechanisms in place to ensure this does not happen. We also have a treaty in place between India and Pakistan to the effect that both countries will keep each other abreast of any untoward development, at and with their nuclear facility, which could have an impact on each other or the region,” he said.

He also spoke of the impact of recent developments on research. “Our main challenge is developing technology for sustained low intensity conflicts. After the Mumbai attack, we are factoring in the presence of dense population in urban scenarios,” he said.
When asked about the light combat aircraft (LCA) or the Tejas project, he said: “The order for the first batch of 40 LCAs has already been placed at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Final tests for the naval version are on. The navy is looking at procuring at least 50 of them.”