The Indian Army is making strides in defense technology with the launch of the indigenous ‘SAKSHAM’ Counter Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Grid. This innovative system, developed with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Ghaziabad, aims to boost self-sufficiency in defense.
SAKSHAM stands for Situational Awareness for Kinetic Soft and Hard Kill Assets Management. It’s designed to detect, track, identify, and neutralize enemy drones in real-time. This system can provide a detailed “Recognised UAS Picture” up to 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) in the Tactical Battlefield Space (TBS), a new area of operation.
The idea for TBS emerged after Operation Sindoor, which followed a terror attack in Pahalgam. The need for real-time airspace control became clear as drone threats increased. A senior officer emphasized that modern warfare isn’t just about land; controlling the airspace above troops is critical for winning battles.
SAKSHAM features a modular design that links various counter-drone weapons and sensors. It pulls data from radar and optical systems to deliver quick threat alerts. Its use of AI enhances threat analysis, allowing for faster and more accurate decision-making when responding to aerial risks.
This system falls under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in local defense production. It is set to become operational within a year through the Fast Track Procurement route.
A defense expert noted that this project is about more than just drones. It focuses on autonomy, speed, and gaining full control over the battlefield.
Once deployed, SAKSHAM will be crucial to India’s Counter-UAS grid, working seamlessly with existing air defense systems. It will empower military leaders to maintain awareness and respond swiftly to threats, especially in sensitive border regions.
This aligns with the Indian Army’s vision for a digital and technologically advanced force between 2023 and 2032, ready for future hybrid warfare. An officer involved in the program stated, “The future battlefield is multidimensional — and SAKSHAM ensures India stays ahead of the threat curve.”
In recent times, drone technology has become a hot topic, with countries around the world investing heavily in counter-drone systems. According to a report by ResearchAndMarkets, the global counter-drone market is expected to grow significantly, reaching $2.5 billion by 2026. This indicates a growing recognition of aerial threats in modern warfare and a shared push for effective solutions.
As nation-states compete for technological superiority, India’s advancements like SAKSHAM reflect a broader trend in military modernization, focusing on indigenous capabilities and self-reliance.
