An aerospace and defence expert, Vivek Lall is global chief executive for international commercial strategic development at General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems, a US-based defence and nuclear giant. Lall, who has held key positions in Boeing and Reliance and was recognised as one of the top scientists of the 20th century by Cambridge, spoke to Huma Siddiqui on the company’s plans and how he feels the two countries can engage. Excerpts
During PM Narendra Modi’s US visit, you had a one-on-one with him on strategic technology engagement.
There is renewed vigour in the corporate world regarding Indo-US engagement in technology and innovation.
Several us companies have niche technologies for applications in various industries, including defence. The key, then, is building a partnership where technology can be absorbed by India’s corporate sector and defence. The other aspect would be bringing in innovation and taking it to the next level.
What’s your take on Modi’s ‘Make in India’ programme?
A laudable effort, it will attract a lot of players from the US who are keen on co-manfacturing and co-developing products for Indian and other markets across the world, making India the base.
What’s needed to convert the ‘Make in India’ dream into a success? how do you see things evolving in the defence and nuclear space?
Most technologies and manufacturing plans in the defence and nuclear space can take years to unfold. In the next 2-3 years, seeds can be put into the ground and incubated. Results won’t be immediate — there’s a need to identify projects that can be executed jointly by governments and companies both in India and the US. When PM Modi was in Washington, there was a lot of talk on Defence Technology Initiative (DTI). If we sow the seeds now, a competitive industry will be created — whether or not you have an offset policy, companies will come and set up base in India.
What are the problems in the way of a full nuclear technology partnership? How do you see the nuclear liability bill, which has been a thorn in the flesh?
Lots of progress has been made in the last several years. The corporate perspective of risk-reward is not an obstacle that cannot be overcome. At the end of the day, it’s about managing risk. True progress will be made once risk-related issues are resolved. They can be taken out of balance sheets and spread out. In terms of nuclear liability or even liability clauses related to defence, it is about how to frame the clauses — some sort of shared collective responsibility will take one on the right path. The benefits for India are manifold, and so are they for the rest of the world.
As head of GA Electromagnetic
Systems Group, could you give us a brief profile of your organisation?
GA Electromagnetic Systems Group (GA-EMS) is a recognised leader in the research, development and manufacture of electromagnetic and electric power components and systems. We offer electric power generation, propulsion, distribution and monitoring products to support a wide variety of defence, oil & gas, chemical, energy, mining, nuclear power, research, and training requirements worldwide.
What sets apart your technology and product offerings?
Our products push the boundaries of energy and fuel efficiency, can work in harsh operational environments and come with high reliability. An example is our work under contract with the US Navy for installation of an electromagnetic aircraft launch and recovery system on the new US aircraft carrier Gerald R Ford (CVN 78). We have leveraged our experience in thermonuclear fusion research and linear motor and electromagnetic launcher development to create this state-of-the-art system.
Can the electromagnetic aircraft launch system be implemented for the Indian Navy?
Yes, with concurrence from the US Navy and the permission to export, the system could provide key benefits for the Indian Navy. The system’s flexible architecture allows for integration into a range of platforms with differing catapult configurations, enabling the launch and
recovery of a wide variety of aircraft, including unmanned aerial vehicles, to enhance situational awareness. It also requires fewer personnel.
What other products do you have to offer?
We’re currently applying our highly efficient motors, generators, drives, high-energy capacitors and integrated systems for use in power generation, integrated propulsion, and electric distribution applications for mining, solar energy, smart electric power grids, water and wastewater treatment, maritime, and oil/gas applications. We specialise in first-of-a-kind systems and product customisation to suit industry-specific requirements. For instance, our Gulftronic electrostatic separators are helping produce better yields at oil refineries through a unique, patented automated electrochemical process.
India can also benefit from GA’s high-quality, reliable radiation monitoring systems for nuclear power. GA is also a recognised leader in design, development and support of environmentally and seismically qualified radiation monitoring systems.
How are you positioned for the future?
We will continue to leverage our unique electromagnetic and electric technologies, unmatched technical and design expertise and R&D commitment to create customised solutions. And we look forward to exploring opportunities with India.