BEL Upgrade Bofors 40mm L/70 with Drone Guard System to Counter Drone Swarm Threats

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has propelled India’s defence capabilities to a new level by integrating its cutting-edge Drone Guard System (DGS) into the iconic Bofors 40mm L/70 autocannon. This innovative upgrade transforms the decades-old weapon into a state-of-the-art countermeasure system, tailored to neutralize contemporary aerial threats, especially drones, which have become a critical concern for modern security frameworks.

Breathing New Life Into a Classic Weapon

The Bofors 40mm L/70, a trusted mainstay of air defence systems, has received a comprehensive technological overhaul to address the complexities of modern warfare. BEL has replaced the original hydraulic drives with advanced all-electric drives, significantly improving the gun’s efficiency and precision. This transition eliminates hydraulic fluid concerns, reduces maintenance demands, and allows for quieter operation, particularly when powered by batteries.

The integration includes an advanced Fire Control System (FCS) equipped with optronic sight capabilities. The FCS now features:

• Eye-safe Laser Range Finder (LRF) for accurate distance measurement.
• Day-Light Television (DLTV) and Thermal Imaging (TI) for enhanced target acquisition in varied conditions.
• Autonomous ballistic computation capabilities that include real-time muzzle velocity adjustments and tilt correction, ensuring pinpoint accuracy.

Additionally, the system interfaces seamlessly with Target Acquisition (TA) and Fire Control (FC) radars, enabling automated target tracking and engagement in coordinated defence networks.

BEL's Drone Guard System: A Shield Against Modern Threats

The highlight of this upgrade is the integration of BEL’s Drone Guard System. Designed to counter the growing menace of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), the DGS combines detection, tracking, and neutralization in one robust package.

• Detection and Tracking: Utilizing advanced Electro-Optical and Infrared (EO-IR) sensors, the system can identify and continuously track drones based on their radio frequencies and control signals.

• Neutralization: The system deploys a dual-layered defence strategy. While its jamming capabilities disrupt communication between drones and their operators, the L/70 cannon provides kinetic destruction, ensuring complete elimination of the threat.

The combined system is particularly effective against swarm drone attacks, a growing tactical challenge in both urban and battlefield scenarios. It also addresses traditional threats like helicopters and low-flying aircraft, offering unparalleled versatility.

A Game-Changer for Indian Defence

This enhanced Bofors L/70 is a testament to India's advancements in indigenous defence technology. It provides a cost-effective solution for safeguarding critical infrastructure, military installations, and sensitive urban zones. The gun's adaptability, combined with its ability to operate silently using batteries, ensures stealth and efficiency in diverse operational scenarios.

The upgrade also positions India as a potential exporter of this hybrid defence system. With several nations still relying on the Bofors L/70 for air defence, BEL’s modernized solution could cater to a global demand for effective counter-drone technologies.

Future Implications

As drones evolve into a dominant component of aerial warfare, the integration of systems like BEL’s DGS into proven platforms such as the Bofors 40mm L/70 highlights the importance of combining legacy systems with cutting-edge technology. This innovation not only strengthens India’s defence capabilities but also underscores its ability to develop globally competitive solutions for modern security challenges.