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Army and IAF to Deploy 16 Indigenous Anti-Drone Systems
The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force have approved the procurement of 16 new indigenous drone detection and interdiction systems capable of neutralising hostile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at ranges up to 2 kilometres. These systems utilise laser-based technology developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and aim to enhance the country’s aerial defence against evolving drone threats.
Features and Technology
Each unit is designed to detect, track and disable hostile drones deploying a high-power laser beam. The new generation systems are said to push engagement ranges to 2 km—twice as far as prior models which typically had a 1 km capability. The induction of these systems forms part of broader efforts by DRDO to deliver next-generation weapons and support indigenous defence manufacturing. The move aligns with India’s push for “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) in defence technology.
Significance and Strategic Impact
The enhancements come at a time when drones and unmanned systems pose growing threats along border regions and in complex aerial environments. By bolstering both hard-kill and detection capabilities, the armed forces aim to improve response to drone incursions, surveillance attempts and swarm attacks. Analysts say that wider deployment of such systems will strengthen multi-layered defence architecture and signal deterrence against adversarial unmanned threats.
