Indian Army Issues RFI for 90 Carrier Air Defence Tracked (CADET) Systems

In a move aimed at strengthening India's air defence capabilities, the Indian Army has released a Request for Information (RFI) seeking domestic solutions for the procurement of over 90 Carrier Air Defence Tracked (CADET) systems. This effort is part of a larger strategy to modernize the Army’s air defence network and address emerging aerial threats with enhanced agility and precision.

What are CADET Systems?

The CADET platforms are tracked vehicles designed to serve as versatile air defence systems. They can be configured for various roles, including missile-based air defence, anti-aircraft gun systems, or a hybrid of both. The flexibility of these platforms allows the Indian Army to customize the systems based on specific threat scenarios, ensuring effective protection against aerial threats ranging from low-flying helicopters to high-speed fighter jets.

Key Specifications and Requirements

One of the core requirements for the CADET systems is to ensure high power efficiency, particularly in challenging high-altitude regions like Ladakh and the northern borders. Operating in these mountainous terrains often leads to significant power loss for standard engines; hence, the CADET platforms must be equipped with engines that can maintain performance even in oxygen-deprived environments. This capability is essential to securing India’s strategically vital regions where air defence is a priority.

Additionally, the CADET systems are expected to have integrated sensor and fire control systems that offer real-time target tracking, high mobility to rapidly reposition in response to shifting threats, and an ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously. The platforms must also be able to work seamlessly with other air defence assets, ensuring a layered and integrated approach to air defence.

Supporting “Make in India” and Indigenous Manufacturing

In line with the government’s “Make in India” initiative, the RFI encourages domestic defence companies to participate without rigid restrictions. The open-ended nature of the RFI provides Indian industry players with the flexibility to propose innovative and diverse solutions, fostering domestic research, development, and production. By focusing on indigenous manufacturing, the Army aims to reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers and enhance self-reliance in critical defence technology.

Strategic Importance and Future Expansion

The initial requirement for over 90 CADET platforms is only the beginning. The Indian Army envisions these systems as the foundation for a broader air defence strategy, integrating them with Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems and other anti-aircraft solutions. The standardized CADET platforms simplify logistics, training, and maintenance, enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Given the growing complexity of aerial threats—ranging from drones to advanced fighter aircraft—the CADET systems are seen as vital to the Army’s ability to respond effectively. By developing a scalable and adaptable air defence infrastructure, the Army plans to gradually expand its inventory of CADET platforms as part of a phased modernization plan.

Conclusion

The Indian Army’s focus on acquiring over 90 Carrier Air Defence Tracked (CADET) systems underscores its commitment to bolstering air defence in both conventional and high-altitude environments. By promoting indigenous solutions, the Army is not only enhancing its defence capabilities but also supporting India’s broader goals of self-reliance and technological advancement. This initiative is a crucial step towards creating a robust and integrated air defence network that can effectively counter evolving aerial threats in the years to come.