BEL Indigenous Counter-Drone System has demonstrated its battlefield prowess and strategic significance in the face of increasing aerial threats from Pakistan. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Defence PSU, not only inked a big contract with the Indian Army for its Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS) but also demonstrated the battle-proven capability of its Akashteer air defence system.
These initiatives represent a significant step in India’s Make in India defence goals and air security complex.
BEL Signs Agreement with Army for IDDIS
BEL signed a significant agreement with the Indian Army’s Air Defence on Friday for the induction of the Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System. Jointly developed by BEL and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the system identifies, traces, and neutralizes enemy drones.
This contract contributes to BEL’s expanding defence portfolio. BEL has obtained additional orders worth ₹572 crore since April 7. They include systems such as IDDIS, Software Defined Radios (SDR), Data Communication Units (DCU) for attack guns, AI-based naval solutions, simulators, jammers, and spares.
Akashteer Neutralises Pakistan Drone Attacks
Meanwhile, BEL’s homegrown air defence system Akashteer has made incredible performance in the recent India–Pakistan conflict. After India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7 when Indian forces attacked nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK, Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile strikes.
Akashteer intercepted and neutralized threats with high accuracy. The system shot down drones, missiles, micro UAVs, and loitering munitions before they could harm anyone. It contributed to zero casualties and low material losses.
Beyond Expectations: A Game-Changer
BEL verified Akashteer’s field success on Wednesday. The system operated beyond user expectations and offered flawless air defence. Ground weapons systems, coupled with Akashteer, made the sky a hostile place for Pakistan’s air intrusions.
The system enables Indian Army Air Defence (AD) formations to see a common air picture in real time. It provides the lowest operating levels access to it, enhancing situational awareness and reaction time.
Designed Under a ₹1,982 Cr Contract
BEL built Akashteer on a ₹1,982 crore deal inked in March 2023. The system unifies surveillance assets, radar, and command systems into an immediate battlefield network. It tracks low-level airspace in battle zones and manages AD weapons efficiently.
With IDDIS being deployed and Akashteer battle-proven, BEL’s domestic systems are altering India’s defence posture.
