Indian Army to Deploy "SANJAY" Real-Time Battlefield Surveillance System Nationwide by October 2025
In a groundbreaking move toward enhancing its operational capabilities, the Indian Army has announced the deployment of the indigenously developed Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS), codenamed "SANJAY," across its brigades, divisions, and corps. This advanced system, set to roll out in three phases by October 2025, is designed to revolutionize the Army's surveillance, reconnaissance, and situational awareness capabilities.
What is SANJAY?
"SANJAY" is a state-of-the-art automated battlefield surveillance system that integrates real-time data from multiple ground and aerial sensors. Its primary function is to provide a unified and accurate picture of the battlefield to commanders at all levels. This comprehensive data is transmitted via secure channels such as the Army Data Network and the Satellite Communication Network (SATCOM) to ensure seamless coordination across operational units.
Key features of SANJAY include:
- Real-Time Situational Awareness: The system offers instant updates on enemy movements, terrain details, and potential threats.
- Sensor Integration: It aggregates data from a wide array of sensors, including radar, electro-optical devices, thermal imagers, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
- Data Processing: Redundant or inaccurate information is filtered out, ensuring commanders receive only actionable intelligence.
- Border Monitoring: It is optimized to monitor India's extensive and varied land borders, detecting intrusions and enabling rapid response.
- Enhanced Decision-Making: With detailed battlefield transparency, commanders can make informed strategic and tactical decisions, improving operational outcomes.
Strategic Importance
The development of SANJAY is part of India’s broader focus on achieving network-centric warfare capabilities. It serves as a crucial force multiplier, enabling better coordination, faster decision-making, and enhanced effectiveness in both conventional and sub-conventional warfare scenarios.
SANJAY is expected to play a pivotal role in countering evolving threats along India's borders with adversaries, particularly in high-tension zones such as Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeastern states. The system will also bolster the Army's ability to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations during joint or standalone missions.
Indigenous Development Under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
The SANJAY system has been developed indigenously by the Indian Army in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a leading state-owned defense electronics company. The project aligns with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which emphasizes self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
With an investment of Rs 2,402 crore, SANJAY was procured under the Buy (Indian) category of defense acquisitions, reinforcing the government's commitment to promoting domestic defense capabilities. This milestone also highlights India’s growing expertise in designing and implementing cutting-edge military technologies.
Deployment Timeline
The rollout of SANJAY will take place in three phases:
- Phase 1: Initiating from March 2025, the system will be deployed in selected brigades and divisions for testing and integration.
- Phase 2: Expansion of deployment across additional operational units by July 2025.
- Phase 3: Completion of nationwide deployment across all brigades, divisions, and corps by October 2025.
The timing aligns with the Ministry of Defence’s designation of 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms,' symbolizing India’s ambition to modernize its armed forces and incorporate advanced technology into defense operations.
High-Profile Inauguration
The SANJAY system was officially inaugurated in New Delhi by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in the presence of other key dignitaries, including:
- Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth
- Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan
- Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi
- Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh
- BEL Chairman and Managing Director Manoj Jain
The event emphasized the government’s focus on transitioning to a modern and technologically equipped military.
A Game-Changer for the Indian Army
The introduction of SANJAY marks a significant leap toward network-centric warfare and will provide the Indian Army with a decisive operational edge. Its advanced surveillance capabilities will ensure that troops remain informed and prepared in real time, significantly boosting combat readiness and effectiveness.
With its deployment, India joins the ranks of nations that possess cutting-edge battlefield surveillance technology, ensuring the Army is equipped to face emerging challenges in modern warfare. By October 2025, SANJAY will not only redefine the Army's surveillance capabilities but also solidify India's position as a leader in indigenous defense innovation.
