The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India is taking significant strides in enhancing the capabilities of the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program by planning to develop an Active Protection System (APS) that can also counter emerging drone threats. This initiative underscores the Indian military’s commitment to modernizing its armored forces and adapting to the rapidly evolving battlefield dynamics characterized by advancements in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
The FRCV program aims to replace the aging fleet of tanks and armored vehicles in the Indian Army with advanced combat platforms that can effectively operate in diverse terrains and combat scenarios. With the changing nature of warfare, especially in urban and asymmetric environments, the need for vehicles that can defend against a multitude of threats has become increasingly apparent. Drones have emerged as a significant concern for ground forces, capable of conducting reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strikes with minimal risk to operators.
To address these challenges, DRDO’s proposed APS is designed to provide a robust defense mechanism for the FRCV, enhancing its survivability against various anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), and, importantly, drone attacks. The APS will work by detecting incoming threats, assessing their trajectory, and neutralizing them before they can cause damage to the vehicle or its occupants.
The system will incorporate advanced sensor technologies and countermeasure systems that enable real-time threat assessment. By utilizing radar and electro-optical sensors, the APS will be capable of tracking multiple targets simultaneously, ensuring that both ground-based and aerial threats are effectively managed. The integration of soft and hard kill capabilities will further enhance the system’s effectiveness; soft kill measures might include electronic warfare techniques that disrupt drone communications, while hard kill measures would involve physical interception of incoming projectiles.
The growing use of drones in modern warfare has prompted many military forces around the world to develop counter-drone technologies. The DRDO’s proactive approach to include drone countermeasures within the FRCV program aligns with global trends, recognizing the need for integrated defense systems that can address multiple threats simultaneously. As adversaries increasingly employ drones for surveillance and precision strikes, the ability to counteract these threats becomes essential for maintaining operational superiority.
Moreover, the APS will contribute to the Indian Army’s overall combat effectiveness, providing commanders with increased situational awareness and operational flexibility. By enhancing the survivability of the FRCV, the APS will allow ground forces to engage in operations with greater confidence, knowing that they are equipped to deal with both traditional threats and newer challenges posed by drones.
In addition to its combat capabilities, the FRCV program also emphasizes mobility, firepower, and advanced communication systems. The inclusion of an APS that can counter drone threats will further solidify the vehicle’s role as a multi-domain combat platform, capable of operating in joint environments alongside air and ground forces. This integration is vital as future battlefields are expected to be increasingly joint in nature, with seamless coordination between various branches of the armed forces.
The development of the APS for the FRCV program is also aligned with India’s broader objectives of self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. By focusing on indigenous technologies and systems, DRDO aims to reduce reliance on foreign equipment and bolster India’s defense industrial base. This not only enhances national security but also stimulates local research and development, creating opportunities for domestic defense companies to collaborate with DRDO on cutting-edge technologies.
As the project progresses, DRDO will conduct extensive testing and validation of the APS to ensure its reliability and effectiveness in real-world scenarios. The successful integration of this system into the FRCV will mark a significant advancement in India’s armored capabilities, demonstrating the country’s commitment to staying at the forefront of military innovation.
In conclusion, DRDO’s plans to develop an APS capable of countering drone threats as part of the FRCV program represent a proactive and forward-thinking approach to modernizing the Indian Army’s armored forces. By addressing the dual challenges of traditional anti-tank threats and the growing menace of drones, the APS will significantly enhance the survivability and effectiveness of the FRCV, reinforcing India’s position as a robust and capable military power in an increasingly complex security environment.
