Visakhapatnam: In a strategic move aimed at strengthening India’s maritime defence capabilities, Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pentagon Rugged Systems India Limited to jointly develop and integrate advanced Anti-Drone and Long-Range Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) Communication Systems for deployment on Indian Naval platforms.
The MoU was officially formalised on July 5, 2025, marking a significant step in India’s journey towards indigenous defence manufacturing under the Government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.
Enhancing Maritime Security with Advanced Anti-Drone Systems
One of the core objectives of this collaboration is the development of indigenous Anti-Drone Systems capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing hostile UAVs within a 30-kilometre radius. These systems will operate across a wide frequency spectrum ranging from 400 MHz to 6 GHz, utilizing advanced jamming technologies to neutralize drones without inflicting collateral damage.
This anti-drone capability is expected to address a rising threat from unmanned aerial systems, especially in sensitive maritime zones where the need for rapid threat identification and neutralization is critical.
Securing Communications Through Long-Range NLOS Technology
Another major focus area of the partnership is the development of secure and resilient Long-Range Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) Communication Systems. These systems are vital for naval platforms operating in challenging maritime and littoral environments, where conventional line-of-sight communications may be rendered ineffective.
By enabling robust, encrypted, and uninterrupted communication over long distances, this initiative aims to enhance the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and battlefield awareness.
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Leadership Speaks: Commitment to Innovation and Self-Reliance
Commenting on the significance of the collaboration, HSL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Cmde Hemant Khatri, stated:
“This MoU is a significant step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence technology. Our partnership with Pentagon Rugged Systems will not only enhance the combat readiness of our naval platforms but also foster indigenous innovation in maritime security.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Swaminathan Manikandan, Managing Director of Pentagon Rugged Systems India Limited, said:
“We are proud to collaborate with HSL to deliver indigenous, mission-critical, rugged, real-time, and scalable Anti-Drone technology tailored to address high-risk maritime threats.”
Deployment Timeline and Strategic Impact
The integration trials for these systems are scheduled to begin in the next quarter, with deployment on frontline Indian Naval vessels expected shortly thereafter.
This partnership represents a critical milestone in India’s quest for high-tech indigenous defence systems and underscores the country’s determination to enhance its naval deterrence against emerging asymmetric threats.
About Hindustan Shipyard Limited
Established in 1941, HSL is a premier public sector undertaking located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence, HSL specializes in shipbuilding, ship repair, and submarine construction. The shipyard has a rich legacy of delivering advanced maritime platforms, including the indigenously designed Fleet Support Ships and Diving Support Vessels. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a skilled workforce, HSL is at the forefront of India’s maritime defense sector, contributing significantly to the nation’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
