Indian Army's Indigenous SAKSHAM: Revolutionary Anti-Drone Defense System Enhancing National Security

Once deployed, SAKSHAM will establish itself as the foundation of India's Counter-UAS defense infrastructure.

New Delhi:

The Indian Army has begun the acquisition process for the domestically developed 'SAKSHAM' Counter Unmanned Aerial System Grid, an advanced command and control network engineered to detect, monitor, identify, and neutralize enemy drones with real-time capabilities.

Army sources reveal that SAKSHAM (Situational Awareness for Kinetic Soft and Hard Kill Assets Management) represents a significant advancement in comprehensive airspace control technology.

Created in partnership with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Ghaziabad, this system operates on the secure Army Data Network (ADN) and delivers a consolidated "Recognised UAS Picture" across the newly established Tactical Battlefield Space (TBS) - a domain that extends up to 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) above ground level.

A Revolutionary Approach to Combat

The TBS concept evolved following Operation Sindoor, India's cross-border response after the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, when increased drone intrusions highlighted the necessity for immediate airspace management capabilities.

"Modern warfare extends beyond ground operations," noted a senior officer. "Control of the Air Littoral - the airspace directly above deployed troops - has become essential for tactical superiority," the officer further explained.

SAKSHAM's flexible grid architecture will connect multiple counter-drone weapons and sensors, integrating data from radar systems, electro-optical devices, and various sources to provide immediate threat alerts and response options. The system utilizes AI-powered threat analysis, automating decision processes and improving precision when neutralizing aerial targets.

Domestic Innovation Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat

Officials confirmed that this entirely indigenous platform demonstrates the army's dedication to the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative within defense technology development. With approval under the Fast Track Procurement (FTP) pathway, SAKSHAM is scheduled for field implementation within twelve months. "This technology transcends drone defense - it encompasses autonomy, rapid response, and control of our operational environment," added a defense source.

Strategic Significance

Upon deployment, SAKSHAM will serve as the central framework of India's Counter-UAS infrastructure, providing commanders with uninterrupted situational awareness across both land and air domains. It will integrate with current air defense and surveillance networks, ensuring swift responses to drone threats in vulnerable areas.

This initiative aligns with the Indian Army's Decade of Transformation (2023-2032) - a strategic blueprint toward developing a digitally connected, technology-driven military prepared for future hybrid warfare scenarios.

"Tomorrow's battlefield is multidimensional - and SAKSHAM ensures India maintains its advantage over emerging threats," stated an officer involved with the program.