New Delhi, Feb. 4 -- As India accelerates military modernisation and indigenisation, defence training is undergoing a quiet but profound transformation. Hyderabad-headquartered Zen Technologies Limited-a key supplier of combat training simulators and anti-drone solutions to the armed forces, paramilitary and police-has emerged as a central player in this shift. With steady order inflows from the Ministry of Defence and a growing portfolio of AI-enabled platforms, Zen is moving defence training from static drills to intelligent, data-driven simulation ecosystems.
In a conversation focused on the technology backbone of this evolution, Col Aravind Mulimani (Retd), Vice President - Projects, Air Defence, Zen Technologies, explains how software architecture, artificial intelligence and immersive technologies are reshaping how India prepares for modern combat.
Modernising training through software, AI and analytics
According to Mulimani, Zen's approach begins with robust software architecture. "We design our platforms to be modular, integrated and scalable, allowing systems to evolve without complete replacement," he says. This architecture enables different simulators-air defence, armour, naval or infantry-to interoperate while remaining adaptable to future requirements.
AI sits at the core of Zen's newer systems. Embedded intelligence dynamically alters scenarios based on trainee actions, introducing variability that mirrors real-world operational uncertainty. "AI enables adaptive training, real-time threat behaviour and intelligent instructor support," Mulimani notes. Complementing this is data analytics, which converts training sessions into quantifiable metrics. Performance data, decision timelines and error patterns feed into after-action reviews, creating objective training standards rather than subjective assessments.
Platforms driving scale and adoption
Several recent platform upgrades have significantly improved performance and customer adoption. Among them is the Integrated Air Defence Combat Simulator (IADCS), which replicates complex, multi-layered air defence scenarios. Equally strategic is India's first Combat Training Node (CTN)-a network-centric platform that allows multiple simulators and units to train together in a shared virtual battlespace.
Zen has also advanced tank crew gunnery simulators, an AI-enabled Fast Attack Craft simulator for naval forces, and continuously upgraded its anti-drone systems, enhancing radar sensitivity, thermal imaging and RF jamming algorithms. "What's driving acceptance is indigenous R&D, ownership of IP, AI-led adaptive training and modular design," Mulimani says, adding that these strengths are reflected in recent MoD contracts.
Built for interoperability and longevity
Ensuring long-term relevance is a key design principle. Zen relies on common data standards, open interfaces and upgradeable modules, allowing platforms to integrate new sensors, AI models or operational doctrines. "Operational feedback loops are critical," Mulimani says. "We continuously refine systems based on how forces actually train and operate." This approach extends system lifespan while protecting customer investment-a crucial consideration in capital-intensive defence environments.
Immersive tech as a core enabler
AR, VR and digital simulations are no longer peripheral tools. "They replicate operational context closely, improve skill retention and allow personnel to train decision-making under pressure-without real-world risk," Mulimani explains. Immersive systems also improve accessibility and scale. Units can train repeatedly, safely and cost-effectively, while analytics provide objective insight into readiness levels. "The value lies in realism, retention, safety and adaptability," he says.
AI-driven personalisation without compromising readiness
Zen deploys AI to personalise training paths, automatically adjusting difficulty based on individual performance. Objective metrics enable automated assessments, detailed after-action reviews and faster feedback loops. "This shortens training cycles without diluting combat readiness," Mulimani says, noting that AI also enhances realism by generating intelligent adversary behaviour and context-aware scenarios.
Securing networked training ecosystems
With live, virtual and constructive training increasingly networked, cyber security is non-negotiable. Zen operates a certified Information Security Management System (ISMS), embeds security at the design stage and follows secure software development practices. Measures include AI/data integrity controls, incident management frameworks, lifecycle risk assessments and stringent third-party governance. "User cyber policies, SOPs and regular audits further strengthen resilience," Mulimani adds.
What lies ahead for India's simulation landscape?
Looking ahead, Mulimani sees India's defence training ecosystem becoming AI-centric, immersive and deeply networked by the early 2030s. Digital twins, joint-force training environments, analytics-rich platforms and indigenously developed secure systems will define the next phase. "These trends will ensure India prepares for future conflicts with self-reliant, technology-driven training systems," he says-signalling a future where simulation is not just a training aid, but a strategic capability in itself.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from TechCircle.