New Delhi, Oct 9: The Indian Army has approved the procurement of an indigenous counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) grid, aimed at strengthening its ability to detect, track, and neutralise hostile drones over operational areas. The specialised system, named ‘Saksham’ and developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), will secure airspace up to 10,000 feet, sources familiar with the matter said.
The grid combines a network of radars and sensors with artificial intelligence-driven technologies designed to keep pace with evolving aerial threats. “Saksham will provide a real-time integrated picture of the battlefield, enabling commanders to make faster, informed decisions and engage threats efficiently,” a senior Army official noted.
The system offers multiple options to counter enemy UAVs, including lethal engagement or the use of high-power radio waves to disable drones. Military planners see this as a critical capability in ensuring complete airspace security for ground forces.
The need for a dedicated counter-UAS network became evident during Operation Sindoor, when hostile drones required rapid detection and coordinated response. The Army intends to roll out the system to all field formations within the next year under the fast-track procurement route.
Functioning over the Army’s secure data network, Saksham is designed as a high-end command-and-control solution. It will consolidate data from both friendly and adversary UAVs, offering automated decision-support and real-time visualisation for field commanders. The AI-driven architecture allows scalability and upgradability, ensuring the system remains effective as drone technology evolves.
“Once operational, Saksham will form the backbone of our counter-UAS capabilities, giving commanders a unified view of aerial and ground threats,” said another defence source. “It ensures that troops, infrastructure, and critical assets are protected from aerial incursions, while allowing freedom of movement for our own forces.”
The Army’s approach reflects a recognition that modern conflict increasingly spans both land and air. By maintaining continuous control over airspace immediately above the battlefield, commanders can detect, track, and neutralise hostile drones or aircraft swiftly, while securing operational freedom for their own units.
The induction of Saksham is part of the Indian Army’s Decade of Transformation (2023-2032), a broader initiative to modernise combat systems and enhance operational readiness. Officials emphasised that the system’s integration will provide a robust, scalable, and future-ready solution to aerial threats in multiple combat scenarios.
