Context:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved notable progress in the development of an extensive counter-drone system and is concurrently emphasizing the advancement of high-endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Recent Advances in Counter-Drone Technology and UAV Development
- Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO): A Overview
Recent Advances in Counter-Drone Technology and UAV Development
Counter-Drone Technology:
DRDO’s Comprehensive Anti-Drone System:
- Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- Encompasses detection, identification, and neutralization of drones.
- Capable of countering various drone types, including micro drones.
- Addresses soft kill and hard kill scenarios for effective countermeasures.
- Technology transferred to private companies like BEL, L&T, and Icom for mass production.
UAV Development:
Tapas Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV:
- Developed for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) applications.
- In an advanced stage of developmental trials.
- Features a Lithium Ion-based battery with an indigenous battery management system.
- Collaborative effort between DRDO and a private vendor.
Archer UAV:
- Short-range armed UAV designed for reconnaissance, surveillance, and low-intensity conflict scenarios.
- Currently undergoing developmental flight trials.
Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO): A Overview
Mission and Vision:
- DRDO is the Research and Development (R&D) wing of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
- Vision: Empower India with cutting-edge defense technologies.
- Mission: Achieve self-reliance in critical defense technologies.
Core Principle:
- “Balasya Mulam Vigyanam” (Science is the source of strength).
Foundation:
- Established in 1958 through the amalgamation of existing establishments from the Indian Army and Directorate of Technical Development & Production.
Significant Contributions:
Strategic Systems and Platforms:
- Developed key strategic systems and platforms:
- Agni and Prithvi series of missiles.
- Tejas (Light Combat Aircraft).
- Pinaka (Multi-barrel Rocket Launcher).
- Akash (Air Defence System).
- Radars and electronic warfare systems.
-Source: The Hindu
