The future of warfare is no longer limited to the battlefield—it now extends to the skies. With the rapid rise of drone technology, nations worldwide are investing heavily in both drone warfare and counter-drone systems. India is no exception. Recognizing the potential and risks of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), India is strengthening its drone capabilities while also building a robust defense against potential aerial threats.
From advanced micro-missile systems to AI-powered anti-drone domes, the country is making significant strides in aerial warfare. Here's a closer look at India's journey toward mastering drone technology and ensuring national security in the era of modern combat.
The Rise of India's Indigenous Drone Systems
At the forefront of India’s drone defense strategy is the Bhargavastra Micro-Missile System, an advanced counter-drone solution. Successfully tested in early 2025, this system is designed to neutralize swarm drone threats—a growing challenge in modern warfare. Developed by Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), a subsidiary of the Solar Group, Bhargavastra is a major step toward self-reliance in defense technology under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Mounted on a mobile 4x4 platform, this system is built for diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions up to 5,000 meters. Its radar detects medium-to-large UAVs at 10 kilometers and micro-drones at 6 kilometers, engaging them with guided micro-missiles. Capable of launching 64 missiles at once, Bhargavastra provides a strong shield against drone swarms.
Another breakthrough is the Indrajaal Autonomous Drone Defence Dome, a fully automated, AI-powered anti-drone system developed by Grene Robotics. Designed to provide 360-degree aerial security, Indrajaal covers an impressive 4,000 square kilometers.
Using twelve modular technologies, including greneOS autonomous resource planning and HiveMind AI mission execution, Indrajaal ensures real-time detection and elimination of hostile UAVs, making it a game-changer for India's defense infrastructure.
Countering Drone Threats with Advanced Tech
India’s defense research agency, DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation), has been at the forefront of counter-drone technology. One of its key innovations is the D-4 System (D4S), developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE).
This system features a 360-degree radar capable of detecting micro-drones within a 4-km radius. Once a threat is identified, it deploys a two-fold attack:
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Soft-kill method – Uses radio frequency (RF) jamming to disrupt enemy drones.
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Hard-kill method – Uses laser-based technology to physically destroy them.
Deployed during major national events, the D-4 system has already proven its effectiveness in securing Indian airspace.
Additionally, DRDO’s Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE) is working on an electro-optical drone detection system. This system integrates thermal cameras, high-resolution video feeds, laser range finders, and illuminators to track and neutralize enemy drones in various operational environments.
India’s Bet on Directed Energy Weapons
Taking drone warfare to the next level, DRDO has initiated the National Directed Energy Weapons Programme. The goal is to develop laser-based weapons and high-powered electromagnetic systems that can disable enemy drones and electronic systems from a distance.
A major highlight of this initiative is Project KALI (Kilo Ampere Linear Injector)—a high-energy electron accelerator that could disrupt enemy electronics using electromagnetic radiation.
This program is being rolled out in multiple phases:
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Phase 1: Develops short-range directed energy weapons to neutralize drones and radar systems within a 6-8 km range.
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Phase 2: Expands the range to 15-20 km, targeting troops and vehicles from ground or airborne platforms.
By investing in energy-based weapons, India is preparing for a future where laser and electromagnetic attacks replace traditional missiles and bullets.
Manned and Unmanned Teaming: The Future of Aerial Combat
A new approach to aerial warfare is emerging: Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is leading this initiative with its Combat Air Teaming System (CATS).
Under this system, manned fighter jets will serve as mother ships, controlling a fleet of AI-powered drones and Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs). These autonomous drones will conduct surveillance, electronic warfare, and even precision strikes—all while staying ahead of enemy defenses.
The CATS program includes:
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CATS Warrior – A combat drone capable of launching up to 24 Alpha-S drones for attack missions.
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CATS ALFA (Air Launched Flexible Asset) – Designed for high-altitude surveillance and air-to-ground strikes.
With this technology, Indian fighter pilots will be able to command a swarm of drones in real-time, giving them a significant tactical advantage in future battles.
Strengthening India’s Short-Range Air Defense
Drones aren’t the only aerial threats on the battlefield—low-flying helicopters, missiles, and enemy aircraft also pose significant risks. To counter these threats, India has developed the Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD).
This shoulder-fired missile system is built to intercept and destroy targets at low altitudes. Featuring advanced avionics and miniaturized reaction control systems (RCS), VSHORAD is a critical addition to India’s multi-layered defense strategy.
With multiple successful test flights under its belt, this missile system will provide the Indian Army with a portable, high-precision tool for neutralizing enemy aerial threats.
The Road Ahead: Securing India’s Skies
India’s rapid advancements in drone technology and counter-drone warfare signal a major shift in modern defense strategy. With a combination of:
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Indigenous drone systems like Bhargavastra and Indrajaal
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AI-powered air defense solutions
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Directed energy weapons for futuristic combat
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Advanced manned-unmanned teaming strategies
…the nation is strengthening its military capabilities for the future of aerial combat.
As the world enters an era where drones dominate the battlefield, India is making sure it stays ahead—not just in launching UAVs, but in protecting its airspace from evolving threats. This is not just about building high-tech defense systems; it's about securing the nation's future, ensuring air superiority, and preparing for the next generation of warfare.
