Context:
The Indian Army has begun procuring SAKSHAM — a domestically developed Counter Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Grid — to strengthen its defences against evolving drone threats. Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), SAKSHAM is designed to detect, track, identify, and neutralise hostile unmanned aerial systems in real time.
Background:
- The need for a robust counter‑drone framework became particularly evident in Operation Sindoor, when drone swarms crossed borders and exposed gaps in detection, response speed, and airspace control. Traditional notions of the battlefield (limited to land plus low‑altitude air) are being rethought. The Army has shifted from the concept of Tactical Battle Area (TBA) to a broader Tactical Battlefield Space (TBS), which includes the Air Littoral — airspace up to 3,000 metres (≈10,000 feet) above the ground. SAKSHAM is intended to secure this domain.
Key Features of SAKSHAM:
|
Feature |
Description |
|
Full Situational Awareness (“Recognised UAS Picture”) |
SAKSHAM will unify inputs from various sensors (radar, radio‑frequency, electro‑optical/infrared etc.), mapping friendly, neutral, and hostile aerial entities. |
|
Soft and Hard Kill Options |
The system supports both non‑kinetic disruption (jamming/spoofing) and kinetic neutralisation (destruction) of enemy drones depending on threat type and proximity. |
|
Command & Control Networked Grid |
It’s a grid system: integrating multiple detection, tracking, and neutralisation nodes across areas of deployment. It runs over the secure Army Data Network (ADN) so that different formations and arms can share the air picture in real time. |
|
AI / Automated Decision‑Support |
Uses AI/ML tools to assist operators: classifying threats, prioritising response, and helping speed up decision making. Also designed to be upgradable/scalable as threats evolve. |
|
GIS‑based Common Operating Picture |
Uses geospatial information systems to visualise battlefield air space, including aerial threats and friendly assets. |
|
Integration with Existing Systems |
Will interface with Akashteer, India’s automated Air Defence Control & Reporting System, to map all airspace users and coordinate responses. |
Strategic Implications of SAKSHAM:
1. Enhanced Airspace Control (up to 3,000 m):
o Provides ground forces greater control over low to medium altitude airspace.
o Crucial for countering UAVs and drone swarms in modern warfare.
2. Faster Reaction, Lower Vulnerability:
o Integrates detection, tracking, decision-making, and neutralisation.
o Minimises response time and reduces the threat posed by hostile drones.
3. Boost to Indigenous R&D and Manufacturing:
o Fully developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
o Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the Army’s Decade of Transformation (2023–2032).
4. Strengthened Deterrence and Border Security:
o Enhances India’s ability to deter and disrupt drone incursions, especially along the Pakistan border.
o Makes hostile UAV operations riskier and less effective.
Conclusion:
SAKSHAM marks a major step in modernising India’s air defence, offering real-time sensor fusion, AI support, and soft/hard kill options for drone threats up to 3,000m. If effectively deployed and maintained, it can protect frontline assets, deter hostile UAVs, and enhance India’s defence tech edge.
