On May 27, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) of the Indian Army revealed that General Upendra Dwivdei, Chief of the Army Staff, visited the Babina Field Firing Ranges to witness UAS, Gegen-UAS and Loitering Munition systems.
The ADGPI stated that:
“These capabilities will significantly enhance operational efficiency, force protection and precision engagement across varied terrains.”
The demonstration highlights India’s push towards the indigenous development of cutting-edge military systems as it seeks to expand capabilities and ensure superiority over neighbouring Pakistan. A video released alongside the statement shows a number of systems in action during battlefield simulations.
The UAS showcased feature significant ISR capability, along with in-built target acquisition designed for operational use. There was specific emphasis on loitering munitions which featured prominently in the recent conflict with Pakistan as part of Operation Sindoor. The Indian Army claims the systems were responsible for the destruction of nine hostile bases in Pakistan & Kashmir.
The specific demonstration of C-UAS systems further demonstrates the Indian Army’s push to enhance capabilities in the field following last month’s Request for Information (RFI) for new solutions. While that RFI specifically sought C-UAS solutions able to be mounted on armoured vehicles, the Indian Army has not released details of the specific capabilities demonstrated during the recent exercise.
It is clear that amidst growing geopolitical tensions and the prospect of further conflict with Pakistan has catalysed efforts to foster defence innovation in India. The systems prioritised clearly reflect lessons learned from the War in Ukraine.
What remains to be seen is whether India will be able to develop and field these capabilities at the pace and scale required while simultaneously reducing reliance on Russian & Western arm imports to bolster their arsenal. The demo day suggests that regardless of future challenges, that is a challenge they are meeting head on.
Post Image Credit: Indian Army
