Lessons learnt during the Mumbai terror attacks are finding their way into the training programme of the National Security Guard (NSG) which is now equipping Black Cats with hands-free communication devices, the absence of which was said to have resulted in the death of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan during the 26/11 operations at the Taj Hotel.

The VOX or Voice Operated Switch equipment is being made available in large numbers and NSG men are being trained in its use. The VOX allows commandos to speak, listen to messages without physically releasing the pressel switch (push to talk switch) on a radio set.

“In a conflict situation, given the kind of weaponry a Black Cat is carrying, it doesn’t help if the commando has to keep pressing a switch whenever he has to listen or talk,” an NSG official said. The VOX with the NSG has throat microphones that pick up the faintest of sounds. “Not only do throat microphones cut down on unwanted background noise, they pick up and transmit even whispers,” the official said.

Leading a “hit team” to flush out terrorists from the Taj Hotel, Major Unnikrishnan was believed to have compromised his position after he was forced to audibly communicate with his team members who were not wired with communication devices. While the Major himself was carrying VOX, his men weren’t. This left him with no choice but to call out instructions aloud.

Ever since, the NSG had been thinking on equipping all members of a “hit team” with VOX for “uninterrupted, stealthy communication”. In addition to use of VOX during counter-terrorism and anti-hijacking operations, the NSG is looking at the possibility of providing it to its men engaged in VIP protection duties.