Indian Army Deploys Anti-Drone Systems Along China Border

In a strategic initiative to strengthen its defence infrastructure along the northern borders adjacent to China, the Indian Army has introduced an initial batch of seven new homegrown Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDD&IS). These vehicle-mounted systems offer both ‘soft kill’ capabilities to disrupt hostile drones via jamming and ‘hard kill’ functionalities using lasers. Conceived by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Bharat Electronics, these Mark-1 variant systems supplement the current counter-drone apparatus. A deploying officer stated that these systems furnish an integrated ability to spot low radar cross-section drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and facilitate their neutralisation through combined soft and hard kill techniques.

The escalating use of drones and swarm drones in conflicts like those between Armenia-Azerbaijan and Russia-Ukraine underscores the critical necessity for formidable defence solutions. Consequently, the Armed Forces are prioritising the procurement of diverse UAVs from both domestic and international origins. A strong focus is also placed on developing and deploying efficient counter-drone technologies, encompassing jamming, spoofing, blinding mechanisms, and laser-based Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs).

The officer added that the IDD&ISs, produced by DRDO and Bharat Electronics, are the Mark-1 variants adopted by the Army Air Defence (AAD). They will complement the existing counter-drone systems. Advanced versions of IDD&IS with extended interception ranges are in the pipeline.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated measures to fortify its defences against drone threats. Initial tenders have been issued for various anti-swarm drone systems, including those based on kamikaze drones and mobile micro-munitions. Furthermore, the IAF seeks to procure 100-200 vehicle-mounted Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) to shield its assets and air bases from drone-based assaults.

Despite recent strides, India has been trailing behind other nations in drone and counter-drone system advancements. Nonetheless, with DRDO's initiatives in anti-drone technology and its plans for potent DEW systems, concerted efforts are underway to narrow this technological disparity. DRDO is presently engaged in developing DEWs with power capacities ranging from 30-50 kilowatts, with aspirations to roll out higher-power systems within the forthcoming three to five years.

The objective is to produce DEWs with augmented power capacities in the next three to five years, targeting operational ranges spanning tens of kilometres. Also, the enhanced laser capabilities will allow for extended range and precision. Furthermore, progress in beam-steering and adaptive optics is anticipated to bolster the weapon's precision and focus over extended distances.

Given the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, there's a burgeoning consensus on the imperative need for a dedicated national program focusing on DEWs to bolster India's defence prowess.