India Successfully Tests Advanced Indigenous Counter-Drone System
In a significant stride towards bolstering its aerial defence capabilities, India successfully conducted tests of an indigenous counter-drone system named "Bhargavastra" on Wednesday. This development marks a major advancement in the nation's ability to tackle emerging threats, particularly those posed by drone swarms, and comes shortly after a period of heightened tensions with Pakistan where drones were reportedly used.
The Bhargavastra system, developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), is designed as a low-cost solution to neutralize large-scale drone incursions. It notably features a "Hard Kill Mode." The tests were carried out at the Seaward Firing Range in Gopalpur, Odisha. According to sources cited by ANI, the system's micro-rockets achieved all their mission objectives during three separate trials on May 13th. These trials were observed by senior officials from the Army Air Defence. Two of these trials involved single rocket firings, while a third tested the system's salvo mode, launching two rockets in quick succession. All four rockets reportedly met the necessary launch parameters, confirming the system's capacity for a swift and powerful response.
Bhargavastra offers a multi-layered defence approach to counter unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) threats. Its first layer employs unguided micro-rockets capable of eliminating drone swarms within a 20-metre lethal radius, engaging targets up to 2.5 kilometers away. A second, previously tested layer consists of a guided micro-missile designed for high-precision targeting. SDAL has emphasized the system's modularity and adaptability to various terrains, including high-altitude regions exceeding 5,000 meters, making it well-suited for the operational requirements of the Indian armed forces.
Beyond its hard-kill capabilities, Bhargavastra can be augmented with an optional soft-kill layer. This includes jamming and spoofing technologies, providing a more comprehensive and integrated shield against drone threats. The system incorporates configurable sensors such as Radar, Electro-Optical (EO), and RF Receivers, allowing it to be tailored to specific user needs. These components work in concert to provide layered air defence coverage and can engage aerial targets at extended ranges.
Integrated with a modern Command-and-Control Centre utilizing C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence) infrastructure, Bhargavastra's radar can detect aerial targets with a low radar cross-section from 6 to 10 kilometers. An EO/IR sensor suite further aids in precise visual tracking and threat assessment. This comprehensive setup offers operators a clear situational overview, enabling effective evaluation and countermeasures against individual drones or entire swarms.
Developers claim that while several countries are working on micro-missile-based counter-drone systems, Bhargavastra is potentially unique in its multi-layered, cost-effective, and modular design, especially in its ability to neutralize swarm drone attacks. Its open-source architecture also allows for seamless integration with existing network-centric warfare systems. SDAL described the successful test as a "feather in the cap" for the 'Make in India' initiative, viewing it as a progressive step in strengthening India's air defence capabilities. This indigenous development is a clear indicator of India's commitment to self-reliance in critical defence technologies.
Picture source: Nagpur today
