Description

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Context

Bhargavastra is India’s first indigenously developed micro-missile-based counter-drone system.

It is a significant technological step to address emerging threats from low-cost drone swarms especially amid rising border tensions.

Developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited in collaboration with Economic Explosives Ltd.

Recent Trials

Trials conducted at Seaward Firing Range Gopalpur on May 13 under Army observation.

All trials met the launch performance criteria validating the system’s reliability.

Features of Bhargavastra

Feature	Description
Type	Micro-missile-based counter-drone air defence system
Range (Detection)	Capable of detecting small drones beyond 6 km
Range (Engagement)	Effective engagement beyond 2.5 km
Firing Capability	Simultaneous launch of over 64 micro missiles
Deployment	Mobile platform-mounted, allowing rapid deployment
Versatility	Operable across various terrains including high-altitude regions
Salvo Firing Mode	Proven ability to fire multiple missiles within seconds
Guidance	Uses guided micro munitions to neutralize targets precisely

Strategic Importance

Addresses a Crucial Capability Gap

First such system for Army Air Defence.

Fulfills long-standing need for affordable, scalable and mobile counter-drone systems.

Cost-Effectiveness

Offers economical deterrence against frequent low-cost drone threats.

Allows preservation of high-value air defence systems like S-400 for major threats.

Multi-Service Interest

The Indian Air Force has expressed interest signaling cross-service applicability.

Offers indigenous alternative in a domain with limited global competition.

Bhargavastra in the Larger Air Defence Ecosystem

Complementary to Systems Like:

System	Role
S-400	Long-range, high-value air defence for ballistic missiles and aircraft
Akash	Medium-range surface-to-air missile system
Barak-8	Naval and land-based air defence system

Relevance to India’s Defence Preparedness

Proliferation of drones including weaponized commercial drones necessitates diversified air defence strategies.

Rising tensions and border skirmishes with Pakistan and China make rapid, indigenous solutions essential.

Bhargavastra showcases India’s defence innovation ecosystem meeting niche and evolving requirements.

Sources:

TIMESOFINDIA

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Examine the strategic significance of India’s indigenous counter-drone system ‘Bhargavastra’ in modern warfare. How does it complement existing air defence mechanisms and address emerging security challenges? 250 words