India’s Ministry of Defence has approved contracts worth 2.89 billion rupees ($32.5 million) to Zen Technologies for upgrading its existing anti-drone systems, signaling a significant step in the nation’s effort to strengthen its counter-unmanned aerial capabilities. The company is expected to complete the upgrades within a year, implementing key insights gained from Operation Sindoor, a major counterterrorism offensive conducted in Jammu and Kashmir in May 2025.
The upgrade program focuses on improving both hardware resilience and software adaptability, addressing challenges such as system tampering and malware infiltration. Officials emphasized that the domestic initiative ensures greater autonomy and flexibility, avoiding dependency on foreign suppliers restricted by export controls and vendor-specific technologies.
The project aligns with India’s broader efforts to enhance its indigenous defense infrastructure through collaboration between Zen Technologies, DRDO, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). A notable example is the D4 anti-drone system, co-developed by DRDO and BEL, which integrates radar, radio frequency (RF) sensors, electro-optical/infrared cameras, jammers, and laser-based directed energy weapons. The platform supports both mobile and static variants, enabling rapid deployment across India’s armed forces.
Additionally, private defense firms are bolstering India’s counter-drone ecosystem. Adani Defence & Aerospace, in partnership with DRDO, unveiled a vehicle-mounted counter-drone system earlier this year that integrates radar, SIGINT/EO sensors, jammers, a 7.62mm gun, and a high-energy laser with a 10-kilometer operational range. Similarly, Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited is developing the Bhargavastra micro-missile system, capable of intercepting loitering munitions and autonomous drone swarms. Together, these developments highlight India’s growing self-reliance in combating evolving drone-based threats.
