Indian Army Issue RFI for 45 AUHPM Mark-II System to Counter UAV & Swarm Drones

The Indian Army is ramping up its defenses against the increasingly sophisticated threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), including swarms of drones. To bolster its capabilities, the Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the procurement of 45 Anti-UAS High Power Microwave Mark-II (AUHPM Mk-II) systems. These advanced systems are designed to neutralize both individual UAVs and large drone swarms, reflecting the Army’s proactive approach to emerging security challenges.

The Rising Threat of UAVs and Swarm Drones

The threat from UAVs and drone swarms has escalated globally, with recent conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine showcasing the destructive potential of these aerial systems. UAVs have evolved from simple reconnaissance tools to sophisticated weapons capable of carrying out precision strikes. This evolution has made them a significant threat on the modern battlefield, requiring advanced countermeasures.

AUHPM Mk-II: A Dual-Mode Defense System

The AUHPM Mk-II systems that the Indian Army is looking to procure are equipped with cutting-edge technology to effectively counter UAV threats. These systems combine advanced surveillance, detection, and tracking capabilities with a powerful High Power Microwave (HPM) weapon system. The HPM system can execute both "hard kill" and "soft kill" operations, making it a versatile tool in the Army’s arsenal.

• Hard Kill : This involves the physical destruction of the target, typically through the directed emission of high-power microwave pulses that can fry the electronic circuits of the UAV, rendering it inoperable.

• Soft Kill : In contrast, this approach disrupts the UAV’s operations without destroying it. This could involve jamming the communication links between the UAV and its operator or spoofing its navigation systems, causing it to veer off course.

The AUHPM Mk-II’s microprocessor-based targeting system ensures precise engagement, which is crucial when dealing with small, fast-moving drones.

Emphasis on Indigenous Technology

A notable aspect of the RFI is the Indian Army's preference for systems with at least 50% indigenous content. This aligns with India's broader push towards self-reliance in defense technology, known as "Atmanirbhar Bharat." By encouraging the development and procurement of homegrown technologies, the Army aims to reduce dependency on foreign systems and foster innovation within the country’s defense sector.

Addressing the Unique Challenges of UAVs

Countering UAVs presents unique challenges, especially with the rise of smaller, more agile drones that are harder to detect and engage. Traditional air defense systems, designed to counter larger aircraft, often struggle with these smaller targets. The AUHPM Mk-II systems are designed to fill this gap by providing both the range and precision needed to neutralize these threats.

The RFI outlines the requirement for these systems to have a minimum effective range of 5 kilometers, ensuring they can operate effectively in diverse environments, from the high altitudes of the Himalayas to the coastal regions and deserts of India. This versatility is crucial given the varied terrains in which the Indian Army operates.

Future of Counter-UAV Operations in India

While India already possesses some counter-UAV capabilities, the issuance of this RFI signals a significant step forward in modernizing and enhancing its defenses. The Army is keen on integrating hybrid systems that combine both soft and hard kill solutions, providing a comprehensive defense against the evolving capabilities of modern drones. Additionally, there is a focus on developing a Common Air Defence Tracked Platform (CADET), which would offer a more unified and flexible approach to air defense.

As the threat from UAVs continues to grow, the Indian Army’s proactive efforts to acquire and deploy advanced countermeasures like the AUHPM Mk-II systems will be crucial in maintaining the security and operational effectiveness of its forces.