New Delhi, — Indian defence technology company IG Defence has successfully test-fired two solid rocket motors for its JWALA micro-missile programme. Conducted at approximately 04:00 hours, the tests mark progress in developing an indigenous, cost-effective hard-kill Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) to neutralise hostile drones.
JWALA is described by the company as India’s first privately developed micro-missile programme. It aims to provide affordable interceptors that can be manufactured and deployed in large numbers to complement existing air defence systems against the growing use of low-cost unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The JWALA MK1 is a short-range surface-to-air interceptor designed to engage UAVs at ranges of 2–5 kilometres and altitudes of 50–5,000 metres. It features a dual-pulse solid rocket motor and aerodynamic fin control for rapid response and precision interception. The programme aims to address the need for scalable counter-drone solutions, particularly against attacks involving multiple drones.
Wing Commander Anoop Sharma (Retd.), Associate Vice President at IG Defence, said the successful propulsion test was an important milestone towards developing an indigenous hard-kill capability. He highlighted the growing need for affordable interceptors that can be produced and deployed in meaningful numbers.
Integration with AI-Powered GRID System
JWALA is being developed as part of IG Defence’s GRID ecosystem, rather than as a standalone missile. Its GRID Defend battle management system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to connect sensors, command units and effectors through a sensor-to-shooter architecture.
The system is designed to detect, identify and track threats, process information from multiple sensors, build a common operational picture and coordinate authorised engagements. In this architecture, JWALA provides the physical interception capability, while GRID manages intelligence and mission coordination.
IG Defence Founder and CEO Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya said the company aims to integrate sensors, AI, command systems and effectors to support authorised Counter-UAS missions from detection to engagement.
Further Testing and Development
IG Defence said further development would focus on system maturity, reliability, manufacturability and readiness for large-scale production. Additional testing and system-level integration will be required as the programme progresses.
Earlier in 2026, the company showcased the JWALA MK1 airframe to Indian Air Force officials during Dronathon 2026. IG Defence has also showcased its KAL long-range loitering munition as part of its wider portfolio of indigenous defence technologies.
The successful solid rocket motor tests mark a step forward in the JWALA programme, which is being developed to strengthen India's domestic counter-drone and defence technology capabilities.
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