India to Deploy First Indigenous Anti-Drone System: Indian Army Inducts AI-Driven ‘SAKSHAM’ Counter-UAS
In a landmark advancement for India’s defense capabilities, the Indian Army has announced the induction of ‘SAKSHAM’, its first fully indigenous AI-driven Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS), set for deployment across operational sectors within the next 12 months. Revealed on October 9, 2025, by the Ministry of Defence, SAKSHAM—developed in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Ghaziabad—marks a pivotal step toward self-reliance in counter-drone technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
This system addresses the rising threats of low-cost UAVs along borders, drawing lessons from recent operations like Operation Sindoor, and integrates detection, tracking, and neutralization over the Army Data Network (ADN). With Fast Track Procurement (FTP) approval expediting its rollout, SAKSHAM will create a “digital dome” for airspace protection up to 3,000 meters, enhancing situational awareness and multi-domain operations. This comprehensive guide delves into the system’s features, announcement details, historical context, strategic impacts, future deployment, and more, highlighting India’s strides in modern warfare innovation.
Why India’s ‘SAKSHAM’ Anti-Drone System Deployment Matters
The induction of SAKSHAM signifies India’s shift from import-dependent defense to homegrown solutions, countering the proliferation of affordable drones used in asymmetric warfare. Amid escalating border tensions with neighbors employing UAVs for surveillance and attacks, this AI-powered system provides real-time threat evaluation and coordinated responses, reducing reaction times from minutes to seconds. For the Indian Army, it operationalizes the Tactical Battlefield Space (TBS) doctrine, extending air defense to the “Air Littoral” domain. Economically, it bolsters the domestic defense industry, projected to reach $25 billion by 2025, while creating jobs in AI and electronics. Globally, it positions India as a leader in counter-UAS tech, potentially exporting systems worth Rs 10,000 crore by 2030 and inspiring allies in the Quad.
Key Features of the ‘SAKSHAM’ Counter-UAS System
- AI-Driven Detection and Tracking: Real-time identification of UAVs and aerial objects across the battlespace.
- Threat Evaluation: Predictive AI for faster decision-making and engagement planning.
- Soft- and Hard-Kill Integration: Coordinates jammers and kinetic interceptors for neutralization.
- GIS Visualization: Dynamic mapping for command visualization.
- Modular Architecture: Scalable and adaptable to evolving threats.
- Networked Operations: Fuses data from radars, sensors, and weapons over ADN, interoperable with systems like Akasheer.
Latest Events Surrounding the ‘SAKSHAM’ Induction
Ministry of Defence Announcement on October 9, 2025
On October 9, 2025, the Ministry of Defence confirmed the Army’s induction of SAKSHAM, emphasizing its role in strengthening low-altitude airspace security. The statement highlighted FTP approval for urgent deployment, with initial units rolling out in border areas within months.
BEL’s Development Spotlight (October 9, 2025)
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) showcased SAKSHAM’s capabilities in a virtual briefing on October 9, 2025, crediting indigenous R&D for its AI core. Officials noted successful trials in simulated drone swarms, proving 95% interception rates.
Industry and Media Reactions (October 9, 2025)
Defense portals like Bharat Shakti and MyInd reported the news on October 9, 2025, praising it as a “game-changer for air defense.” Shares of BEL rose 2% on the BSE, reflecting market optimism about indigenization.
India’s Evolution in Counter-Drone Technology
India’s defense journey has prioritized indigenization since the 1962 war, with DRDO leading UAV developments like Rustom in the 2010s. The 2019 Balakot airstrike exposed drone vulnerabilities, prompting the 2020 FTP for counter-UAS. Early imports from Israel (like Drone Dome) gave way to domestic efforts, with BEL’s 2023 prototypes evolving into SAKSHAM. This induction aligns with the 2024 Defence Production Policy, aiming for 70% self-reliance by 2027, building on successes like Akash missiles.
Timeline of India’s Counter-Drone Milestones
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2019 | Balakot exposes UAV threats; FTP initiated. |
| 2020 | First imports of Israeli counter-drone systems. |
| 2023 | BEL prototypes SAKSHAM for trials. |
| October 2025 | Army inducts SAKSHAM for deployment. |
Impacts of ‘SAKSHAM’ Deployment on Defense and Economy
Enhanced Security and Operational Edge
SAKSHAM’s AI dome protects against drone swarms, reducing losses in border skirmishes by 40% and enabling proactive engagements.
Economic Boost and Indigenization
It supports a $25 billion defense market, creating 5,000 jobs in electronics and AI, while cutting import costs by Rs 2,000 crore annually.
Global Standing and Exports
India could export SAKSHAM variants to Southeast Asia, generating Rs 10,000 crore by 2030 and strengthening Quad ties.
Challenges
Integration with legacy systems and cyber threats require ongoing upgrades.
Scaling Counter-UAS Capabilities
Phased Deployment and Upgrades
Initial rollout in 12 months to borders; full integration with Akasheer by 2027, evolving to counter-hypersonic threats.
R&D and International Collaborations
DRDO-BEL partnerships for AI enhancements; exports to allies by 2028.
Broader Defense Ecosystem
Contributes to 70% indigenization, supporting Viksit Bharat@2047.
Potential Scenarios for 2030
- Optimistic: SAKSHAM family leads exports, $5B market.
- Moderate: Domestic dominance, 50% self-reliance.
- Pessimistic: Tech gaps limit to border use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is ‘SAKSHAM’?
An AI-driven indigenous Counter-UAS for detecting, tracking, and neutralizing drones.
When is its deployment starting?
Within 12 months from October 9, 2025, under FTP.
Who developed SAKSHAM?
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Ghaziabad, in collaboration with the Indian Army.
How does it enhance air defense?
Provides real-time AI evaluation and networked soft/hard-kill options up to 3,000m.
What is its significance for Atmanirbhar Bharat?
Advances self-reliance, reducing imports and boosting domestic tech.
Will it be exported?
Yes, potential for variants in global markets by 2030.
India’s ‘SAKSHAM’ Shield: Safeguarding the Skies
The October 9, 2025, induction of SAKSHAM heralds a new era in India’s air defense, blending AI innovation with indigenous resolve for a secure future.
Key Takeaways
- Indigenous Milestone: First AI-driven counter-drone system.
- Rapid Deployment: FTP rollout in 12 months.
- AI Edge: Predictive threat neutralization.
- Economic Win: Jobs and self-reliance boost.
