SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is taking a multi-pronged approach to strengthen India’s tank defenses. While actively developing an Active Protection System (APS) for tanks, DRDO is also exploring its potential to counter the growing threat of swarm and FPV (First-Person View) armed drones.
An APS is a crucial defensive suite designed to detect, track, and intercept incoming threats before they can damage a tank. Traditionally, these systems focus on neutralizing ATGMs, tank rounds, and other infantry anti-armor weapons. However, the recent war in Ukraine has highlighted the vulnerability of Armoured vehicles to drone attacks, particularly highly maneuverable first-person view (FPV) kamikaze drones.
The existing APS system is primarily designed to counter high-velocity threats like missiles. However, the rapid advancements in drone technology, particularly the emergence of swarm and FPV-armed drones, necessitate exploring additional functionalities.
Unlike slow-moving missiles, FPV drones are highly manoeuvrable and can fly at relatively high speeds. This presents a significant challenge for APS systems, requiring faster detection, tracking, and interception capabilities. The current sensors of the APS might need modifications to effectively detect and track smaller drone targets compared to traditional threats like missiles.
Advanced drone defence might require the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve reaction time and decision-making for precise countermeasures against fast-moving drones. DRDO is exploring the possibility of modifying the existing APS system with additional sensors and AI-powered software to enhance its effectiveness against drone threats. While initial versions of the APS might not have this functionality, future variants are likely to incorporate these advancements.
The development of an APS system capable of countering drone threats is a complex undertaking. DRDO’s initiative demonstrates India’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in military technology. By successfully adapting the APS system for drone defence, DRDO can equip Indian tanks with a comprehensive defence suite against a wider range of battlefield threats.
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