Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: India has successfully tested its indigenous anti-drone swarm system, Bhargavastra, marking a significant step forward in modern warfare preparedness. Developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), this weapon system is tailored to neutralise coordinated drone swarm attacks, which are increasingly being used in global conflict zones.
Tested in Odisha, capable of hard and soft kills
The Bhargavastra system was test-fired on Wednesday at the Seaward Firing Range in Gopalpur, Odisha. The trial featured hard-kill capability, where micro-rockets were used to destroy multiple incoming drones mid-air. The system uses two distinct kinetic layers:
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Unguided micro rockets with a 20-meter lethal radius, targeting drone swarms up to 2.5 km
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Guided micro-missiles for precision targeting against high-threat targets
In addition to kinetic action, the system is equipped with soft-kill methods such as jamming and spoofing to divert or disable enemy drones before they reach sensitive zones.
Advanced detection and adaptable configuration
The Bhargavastra system is supported by EO/IR sensors and radar coverage of 6–10 km, enabling early detection of low radar cross-section drones often missed by conventional systems. Its modular design means sensors and launchers can be configured based on terrain and mission needs — from plains to high-altitude environments.
Strategic significance amid cross-border threats
The test comes in the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, India’s counter-offensive against Pakistan-based terror infrastructure. In retaliation, Pakistan reportedly used Turkish-origin Kamikaze drones, including the Byker YIHA III model. Fragments of these drones were recovered near India’s border zones, making Bhargavastra’s success both timely and crucial.
Fully compatible with network-centric warfare systems, Bhargavastra allows simultaneous engagement of multiple drone targets, enhancing India’s ability to respond to emerging aerial threats.
