SOURCE: AFI
In a significant stride towards self-reliant defense capabilities, the Solar Group, through its subsidiary Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL), has successfully tested a new counter-drone system named Bhargavastra. This innovative micro-missile-based system, designed to neutralize the threat of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drone swarms, might just be India’s answer to the much-acclaimed Iron Dome of Israel.
Bhargavastra can detect small incoming drones from over 6 kilometers away and neutralize them with guided micro-munitions. This capability is crucial in an era where drones, both commercial and militarized, pose significant security risks.
Each micro-missile is designed for precision targeting, hitting virtual and moving electronic targets at distances exceeding 2.5 kilometers, showcasing its potential in combat scenarios against fast-moving or swarming drones.
The system offers a multi-layered approach, capable of engaging multiple targets simultaneously. With the ability to fire more than 64 micro-missiles at once, it provides a robust defense against large-scale drone attacks, something akin to what the Iron Dome does for Israel.
While the Iron Dome is tailored for intercepting short-range rockets, artillery, and mortars, Bhargavastra focuses on countering the drone threat, which has become more prevalent in modern warfare.
- Iron Dome: Uses Tamir interceptor missiles to engage threats at a range of 4 to 70 kilometers. It’s expensive, with each interceptor costing around $50,000 to $100,000, making it less feasible for mass engagement of less costly drone threats.
- Bhargavastra: Employs micro-missiles which are presumably more cost-effective for drone engagements, given the lower cost per unit and the high volume of launches possible. This attribute could make Bhargavastra a more economical choice for continuous defense against drone swarms.
By adding a layer to India’s existing air defense systems, Bhargavastra could significantly reduce vulnerabilities to aerial threats, especially along sensitive border areas where drone incursions have been observed.
If the cost of Bhargavastra’s micro-missiles remains low compared to traditional missile interceptors, it could allow for widespread deployment, enhancing security over a larger territorial expanse. This development aligns with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) initiative, reducing dependency on foreign technology and fostering indigenous innovation in defense technology.
Like the BrahMos missile, if Bhargavastra proves reliable and cost-effective, it could become a product for export, enhancing India’s standing in the global defense market.
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