DRDO’s Radiation Monitoring Systems Boost Naval Preparedness
- vidyarthee2021
- Jul 17
- 2 min read
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently handed over six indigenously developed Radiation Monitoring Systems (RMS) to the Indian Navy. These include:
Gamma Radiation Aerial Surveillance System
Environmental Surveillance Vehicle
Vehicle Radiological Contamination Monitoring System, among others.
What is a Radiation Monitoring System (RMS)?
Purpose: RMS is used for detecting and measuring radiation levels around a source, including surface contamination and airborne radioactivity.
Measurement Tools:
Traditional: Geiger-Mueller (GM) meters (Geiger counters) – detect mainly gamma radiation, not effective for alpha or beta.
Advanced: Compact digital radiation monitors capable of detecting alpha, beta, and gamma radiation with built-in alarm systems.
Applications of RMS
Military: Early detection of radiological threats during naval and strategic operations.
Civilian Use:
Nuclear power plants – safety monitoring
Medical facilities – radiation dosage control
Environmental monitoring
National security – preventing radiological terrorism
UPSC-Relevant Pointers
Indigenisation push: RMS is part of India’s broader effort under Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense technology.
Disaster Management: RMS plays a key role in the CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) disaster response framework.
Digital Advancements: Use of smart sensors, compact form factors, and alarm-triggering systems aligns with modern battlefield tech needs.
UPSC Prelims MCQ
Q. With reference to Radiation Monitoring Systems (RMS), consider the following statements:
Geiger-Mueller meters can detect all forms of ionizing radiation.
RMS can be used in both civilian and military contexts.
RMS is useful for airborne radiation monitoring.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect: Traditional Geiger-Mueller meters are mostly suited for gamma radiation, not alpha or beta.
Statements 2 and 3 are correct: RMS is widely applicable in military and civilian domains, including for airborne radiation detection.
UPSC Mains Question (GS3 – Internal Security / S&T)
Q. Discuss the role of indigenous technologies like Radiation Monitoring Systems (RMS) in strengthening India’s CBRN defense preparedness. How can such technologies aid both military and civilian sectors?
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