The Indian Army is actively seeking to procure an advanced version of the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction system (MK IIA), responding to escalating threats from unmanned aerial systems (UAS) along the western and northern borders.
The envisioned MK IIA system is designed to offer superior surveillance, detection, and tracking capabilities, backed by a microprocessor for precise targeting solutions.
The system is also expected to incorporate both hard-kill (destruction) and soft-kill (denial) measures, featuring a LASER weapon for hard-kill and jamming capabilities for soft-kill operations. A Request for Information (RFI) has been issued to potential vendors, seeking detailed technical proposals.
This move comes on the heels of the recent induction of indigenous integrated drone detection and interdiction systems along the China border, marking a decisive step in the Indian Army's proactive approach to counter the rising UAS threat.
These indigenous systems, developed collaboratively by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Electronics, boast both soft and hard kill options.
Apart from these domestically developed systems, the Armed Forces have deployed various other improvised and procured counter-UAS capabilities. These include prototypes of indigenous laser-based systems, modified ZU-23 and L/70 guns, ad-hoc handled jammers, low-level lightweight radars, and anti-drone systems sourced from Indian private firms and the Israeli SMASH 2000 plus systems.
While specific technical parameters like range of detection will be defined by vendor bids, the RFI mandates a radar system capable of detecting and tracking low RCS targets and designating hostile targets for weapon engagement.
It is anticipated that the MK IIA system will offer an extended range beyond the 800 meters of its predecessor (MK 1) and an expanded bandwidth of frequencies for enhanced tracking and takedown capabilities.
