New Delhi: The Indian Army air defence training system is set for a major upgrade as the army moves to acquire advanced target systems that can simulate modern aerial threats such as drone swarms, helicopters, cruise missiles, and missile-like targets. The move comes after significant purchases of drones and air defence missiles over the past year and reflects India’s growing focus on preparing troops for future warfare.
The Army has issued multiple requests for information (RFIs) to industry partners for specialized training targets that will help soldiers practice against evolving air threats in realistic conditions.
Details of Upgraded Indian Army Air Defence Training
Modern warfare is changing rapidly. According to the Army, air threats are no longer limited to fighter aircraft and smart bombs. Today’s battlefield includes:
- Drone swarms
- Cruise missiles
- Loitering munitions
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
- Low-flying helicopters
- Precision-guided weapons
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These threats require soldiers to train against targets that closely resemble real enemy systems.
Indian Army Air Defence Training: Three New Target Systems Planned
The Army is looking to procure three different target systems for training.
| Target System | Purpose | Simulates |
| Intermediate Target System (Rocket) | Missile training | Missile-like aerial threats |
| Basic Target System (Swarm Drones) | Counter-drone training | Drone swarms |
| Basic Target System (Multirotor Copter) | Air defence practice | Slow-moving helicopters |
1. Intermediate Target System (Rocket)
This system will be used to train troops operating infrared-guided air defence missiles.
Key Features
- Ground-launched rocket target
- Creates an infrared signature similar to real aerial threats
- Easy to assemble and launch
- Modular design
- Safe operation with minimal ground infrastructure
The target will help missile operators practice engaging fast-moving aerial threats under realistic combat conditions.
2. Swarm Drone Target System
Drone swarms have emerged as one of the biggest challenges in modern warfare. The proposed target system will:
- Simulate coordinated drone attacks
- Allow practice with air defence weapons
- Support testing of directed energy weapons
- Use reusable drones wherever possible
Reports indicate the swarm could involve multiple drones operating together to mimic real battlefield attacks.
3. Multirotor Copter Target System
This target system will simulate slow-moving helicopter threats.
Training Benefits
- Unit-level air defence exercises
- Weapon testing
- Target acquisition drills
- Tracking and engagement practice
The system will help soldiers improve reaction time and accuracy against low-speed aerial targets.
What is the Importance of Indian Army Air Defence Training
Recent conflicts around the world have shown how drones and cruise missiles can significantly influence battlefield outcomes. The Indian Army has been rapidly modernizing its air defence network through:
- New air defence missile systems
- Counter-drone technologies
- Indigenous command-and-control networks
- Advanced surveillance systems
- Future drone warfare capabilities
The new training targets are intended to ensure that troops can effectively operate these systems under realistic conditions.
Indian Army’s Recent Air Defence Modernization
Key Developments
- Expansion of drone and counter-drone capabilities
- Development of AI-enabled air defence command systems
- Procurement of modern air defence weapons
- Focus on indigenous defence technologies
- Increased emphasis on anti-swarm drone warfare
These efforts align with India’s broader push toward military modernization and self-reliance in defence production.
What Happens Next?
After collecting responses from defence companies, the Army is expected to evaluate available technologies and move toward procurement. Once inducted, the new systems could become a key part of training for Army Air Defence units across the country, helping troops prepare for increasingly complex aerial threats.
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