Why is it in the News?

The counter-drone system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is ready for production and has already been demonstrated to armed services and other internal security agencies with some orders already placed.

Key Highlights from the Report:

• The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has successfully engineered an indigenous counter-drone technology designed to counter various types of drone attacks, encompassing both soft and hard kill capabilities, particularly effective against micro drones.
• Significance: This cutting-edge system employs a laser-based kill mechanism for the detection and destruction of drones in the airspace.
  • Notably, it can proficiently detect and disrupt micro drones within a range of 3 kilometres, employing laser signals to neutralize targets situated at distances between 1 to 2.5 kilometres.
• The technology has been seamlessly transferred to private industries, including Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Adani, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), and Icom.
  • This strategic transfer enhances collaboration between the public and private sectors for the continued advancement and deployment of this crucial anti-drone technology.

What are Counter-Drone Systems?

• Counter-drone systems serve as defensive mechanisms designed to thwart potential drone attacks through the processes of detection, identification, and neutralization.
• These systems are broadly categorized as kinetic or non-kinetic.
• Kinetic Systems: Kinetic counter-drone systems employ projectiles, such as bullets or missiles, to destroy an intruding drone.
  • They integrate advanced sensors like radar for drone detection, coupled with a motorized platform to precisely aim and fire the weapon.
• Non-Kinetic Systems: Non-kinetic counter-drone systems focus on disrupting flight capabilities or corrupting signals crucial for control and navigation.
  • This is achieved by emitting noise signals at specific frequencies, rendering the drone incapable of receiving command signals.
  • Additionally, non-kinetic systems may transmit false GPS signals, creating confusion in the drone's navigation system.