India’s DRDO Developing ‘Optonic Shield’ — A Smart Laser-Equipped Defence Dome to Guard Critical Assets from Modern Threats
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on an advanced defence system named “Optonic Shield”, designed to safeguard the nation’s critical infrastructure and military installations from a range of modern aerial and ground-based threats. This futuristic system blends cutting-edge electro-optical technology, satellite-based communications, and non-lethal laser weaponry to offer a comprehensive, real-time protective cover for sensitive areas.
The Optonic Shield is essentially a smart hemispherical defence dome. It works by continuously scanning the airspace and ground around a vital asset using multi-spectral electro-optical sensors. These sensors can detect, track, and classify potential threats — like enemy drones, low-flying aircraft, loitering munitions, or guided missiles — both during the day and at night.
This real-time surveillance capability is integrated with advanced battlefield management software that helps commanders quickly assess situations, predict possible threat trajectories, and respond instantly with countermeasures.
At its core, the system operates through a networked tracking mechanism. It links multiple electro-optical payloads placed strategically around an installation to provide 360-degree hemispherical coverage. These sensors are capable of:
Detecting tiny drones or low radar-signature targets
Tracking fast-moving objects across multiple altitude levels
Operating efficiently in different weather and light conditions
Once a potential threat is identified, the system immediately triggers laser warning receivers and alerts defence personnel while simultaneously sharing data with command centres through secure satellite communication links.
A standout feature of the Optonic Shield is its integration of high-power laser dazzlers. These are non-lethal directed energy weapons that can:
Dazzle and temporarily blind optical sensors on drones, missiles, or enemy reconnaissance equipment
Disrupt the guidance systems of precision weapons
Neutralize potential threats without causing physical destruction
This allows for controlled, escalation-free engagements, especially in peacetime surveillance or no-fly zone enforcement operations.
The Optonic Shield is designed to work alongside existing radar, electronic warfare, and air defence systems. Its ability to integrate with broader networks means it contributes to a multi-layered protection strategy, where multiple systems work in unison to defend critical assets.
Key defensive layers include:
Early warning through radar and laser sensors
Optical tracking and threat classification
Non-lethal neutralization using laser dazzlers
Real-time communication with air defence command posts through satellites
Coverage Area: Hemispherical protection dome over selected zones
Sensors: Multi-spectral electro-optical sensors (visible, IR, UV)
Detection Range: Capable of tracking small drones up to 5–10 km, larger aircraft/missiles at longer distances
Laser Dazzler Power: High-power, variable intensity for scalable response
Satellite Links: Secure real-time data sharing with command centres and allied units
Integration: Compatible with radars, electronic warfare suites, and missile defence systems
The development of the Optonic Shield underlines DRDO’s commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in defence technology. As modern threats like drone swarms and precision munitions grow more sophisticated, India’s armed forces require advanced, indigenous solutions to protect military bases, nuclear facilities, airfields, and command centres.
Once operational, the Optonic Shield is expected to be deployed at strategic defence locations and critical national infrastructure to bolster India’s layered air defence capabilities.