SOURCE: AFI
India’s premier defense research agency, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is making a strong impression at the ongoing Eurosatory 2024, a leading global defense and security exhibition held in Paris, France. From June 17-21, DRDO is showcasing a range of its most advanced technologies, underlining India’s commitment to “Make in India and Make for the World” in the defense sector.
DRDO’s presence at Eurosatory is centered around its cutting-edge weapon systems and platforms designed to address contemporary battlefield requirements.
- AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control System): This potent force multiplier provides comprehensive surveillance, communication, and electronic warfare capabilities, enabling early detection and tracking of enemy aircraft and drones.
- LCA Mk1A Tejas: The latest iteration of India’s indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft boasts significant advancements over its predecessor. The Mk1A features an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar for superior target acquisition, an enhanced electronic warfare suite for better situational awareness, and advanced air-to-air refuelling capabilities for extended range.
- Arjun MBT Mk-1A: This indigenously developed Main Battle Tank strengthens India’s self-reliance in armored fighting vehicles. The Arjun Mk-1A incorporates modern battle tank technologies, making it a dependable war machine.
- Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket System (MBRS): This highly effective system offers a range of up to 38 km and can be equipped with different warheads for diverse operational scenarios.
Land and Naval Dominance
DRDO’s showcase also features innovative land and naval platforms:
- WhAP (Wheeled Armoured Platform): This game-changing 8×8 wheeled vehicle provides a versatile and highly mobile platform for various land operations. Its modular armor design allows for mission-specific protection.
- Varunastra: This ship-launched, heavy-weight, electrically propelled anti-submarine torpedo is designed to effectively target quiet submarines in various water depths.
- LFDS-X (Low Frequency Dunking Sonar): This deployable sonar system from helicopters significantly enhances the detection range of submerged submarines, offering a critical advantage in anti-submarine warfare.
Air Power and Missile Defense
DRDO’s aerial and missile defense systems are also on display:
- Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (AAM): This high-performance missile boasts a range of 100 km and a speed of Mach 4.5, enabling fighter aircraft to destroy enemy jets at long distances.
- Helina Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM): This third-generation fire-and-forget missile system, mounted on the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), effectively neutralizes enemy tanks with various armor configurations.
- AKASH Short Range Surface to Air Missile System: This system safeguards vulnerable areas from air attacks by engaging multiple targets simultaneously.