The Indian Army has taken decisive steps to reinforce its air defence capabilities along the volatile northern borders with China. This strategic move includes the deployment of new, domestically developed integrated drone detection and interdiction systems (IDD&IS).
The product of collaborative efforts between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Electronics, these Mark-1 variant IDD&IS mark a significant advancement in India's indigenous defence technology.
They offer a multi-layered approach to combating the growing threat of hostile drones. The IDD&IS systems can initially employ jamming technology to disrupt drones within a 2 to 5-kilometer radius.
If necessary, the system can escalate to "hard kill" measures, utilizing lasers to destroy drones from over 800 meters away. The ample 5 to 8-kilometer detection range ensures an early warning for effective countermeasures.
An initial deployment of seven IDD&IS units bolsters the Army Air Defence (AAD) existing network of anti-drone systems. These new systems are the first phase in a wider rollout, with the promise of future iterations featuring even longer interception ranges for increased border security.
Looking beyond the IDD&IS, DRDO underscores its steadfast commitment to enhancing India's defence capabilities. The organization is actively pursuing even more formidable directed energy weapon systems. These include high-powered microwaves and high-energy lasers, designed to provide robust protection against future drone threats, including potential drone swarms.
