As reported by the Indian Defence Research Wing (IDRW) on June 6, Taiwan has formally requested the purchase of India’s Drone Detect, Deter and Destroy (D4) C-UAS system.

The system was developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Taiwan’s interest follows the system’s reported success in defeating drones and loitering munitions launched by Pakistan during the recent conflict.

The D4 system currently forms the central part of India’s C-UAS capabilities and according to BEL’s website consists of the following components:

  • RADAR System – Drone detection and tracking
  • EO System – CCD, IR camera with LRF for detection and tracking of Drone target
  • DF Counter Drone System- Drone communication channel RF Detection & Jamming, GPS Jamming / Spoofing System (Soft Kill)
  • Laser Directed Energy Weapon System (Hard Kill)
  • Command & Control Centre (C3) with Power Source for complete System

Responding to the reports, an official from DRDO commented that:

“The system’s 360-degree coverage and dual-kill capabilities have attraceted significant interest from nations facing similar drone threats”

Whether India permits the transfer of the D4 system to Taiwan remains to be seen, but regardless the request demonstrates that any battle-proven C-UAS solution will immediately generate international interest as nations seek to enhance their capabilities.

There are few nations with a more acute need for this than Taiwan, with the prospect of a Chinese invasion continuing to loom large. The prospect of an Indian C-UAS system defending against Chinese drones would represent an escalation in already tense relations between two nations seeking to assert themselves on the global stage.

In comments to IDRW, a defence analyst placed the request in the context of continuing Chinese support to Pakistan, stating:

“India’s reluctance to supply arms to Taiwan has been a missed opportunity. China’s unabashed support for Pakistan’s military, including drones and missiles used against India, justifies a reciprocal approach. Supplying Taiwan with advanced systems like the D4 could not only counterbalance China’s influence but also position India as a key player in the global defence market.”

As nations rapidly seek to enhance their C-UAS capabilities, it seems both India and the D4 system specifically could play an integral role.

Post Image Credit: Bharat Electronics Limited