India has recently tested its indigenous anti-drone system, Bhargavastra, marking a significant advancement in countering modern aerial threats.

What is Bhargavastra?

Bhargavastra is India's first homegrown micro-missile system designed to neutralize hostile drone swarms. Developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Ltd, it operates in a "hard kill" mode, physically destroying incoming drones rather than merely disrupting them electronically.

Key Features

1. Dual-Layered Defense: Layer 1: Unguided micro-rockets with a 20-meter lethal radius, effective against drone swarms within a 2.5 km range. Layer 2: Guided micro-missiles for precise targeting of individual drones.
2. Detection Capabilities: Equipped with radar systems capable of detecting small drones up to 6 km away and larger UAVs up to 10 km.
3. Rapid Response: The system can launch up to 64 micro-missiles simultaneously, ensuring swift neutralization of multiple threats.
4. Mobility: Mounted on a mobile platform, Bhargavastra can be deployed across various terrains, including high-altitude regions up to 5,000 meters.
5. Integration: Features advanced Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) systems, along with Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors for enhanced targeting accuracy.

Recent Trials

On May 13, 2025, Bhargavastra underwent successful testing at the Seaward Firing Range in Gopalpur, Odisha. The trials included two single-rocket firings. One salvo firing of two rockets within a two-second interval. All tests met the required performance parameters, demonstrating the system's effectiveness in neutralizing drone threats.

Strategic Significance

The development of Bhargavastra addresses the increasing threat posed by drone swarms, especially in the context of recent conflicts where adversaries have employed drone technologies. Its indigenous design aligns with the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" initiative, reducing reliance on foreign defense systems and enhancing India's self-reliance in defense technology.