New Delhi: India is developing a next-generation integrated air defence system named ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, which will combine counter-drone, counter-UAV, and counter-hypersonic capabilities into a single, all-encompassing platform. The system, currently in its ideation phase, was described as the “mother of all air defence systems” by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), during a high-level conference on air defence and counter-UAV technologies held in the capital.
Speaking at the event titled “Counter UAVs & Air Defence Systems: Future of Modern Warfare”, Air Marshal Dixit highlighted the need for India to stay ahead in the evolving warfare landscape, calling for a proactive and innovative approach that anticipates future threats.
A Next-Gen Shield with Multiple Layers
Air Marshal Dixit revealed that Sudarshan Chakra will feature a multi-layered structure, with counter-drone systems forming the lowest layer, and advanced systems including counter-hypersonic and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies layered above. He hinted at other classified components that would be integrated but could not be publicly disclosed.
“We are still in the ideation phase, but Sudarshan Chakra will be all-encompassing… It will include technologies that haven’t been publicly discussed yet,” he said.
The project, which was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day address, is envisioned as a 10-year strategic initiative aimed at building India’s version of an Iron Dome-like defence shield, similar to Israel’s acclaimed air defence system.
Lessons from Global Conflicts and Operation Sindoor
Drawing lessons from recent global conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine war and the Azerbaijan–Armenia conflict, Air Marshal Dixit emphasized how low-cost drones have inflicted significant damage on expensive defence systems. These examples, he said, highlight the importance of cost-effective innovation and rapid adaptability.
He also referenced India’s own experience in Operation Sindoor, where sophisticated AI-powered drones were intercepted despite their ability to navigate through GPS jamming.
“They are also learning and adapting. So we must always stay two steps ahead,” he said.
“The success of our counter-drone systems in Operation Sindoor was notable, but the next time, the challenge will be tougher.”
‘Think in India’ – A Call to Innovate
Urging Indian defence stakeholders to adopt a mindset shift, Dixit stressed the need to move beyond just ‘Make in India’ to ‘Think in India’, encouraging homegrown ideation across industry, academia, and defence think tanks. He described the race in air defence as “a game of chess” where constant surprise and innovation are key.
He also spoke about the economic aspects of warfare, noting that while victory is important, it must be financially sustainable.
“I cannot go bankrupt while winning a war,” he remarked.
Role of AI and Hybrid Defence Strategy
Addressing the growing commercialisation of drones and their increasing role in modern warfare, the Air Marshal said that future counter-drone systems must integrate both “soft kill” (jamming, spoofing) and “hard kill” (physical destruction) techniques. He stressed the pivotal role of AI and automation in identifying and neutralizing threats in real-time.
Looking Ahead
With Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan previously describing Sudarshan Chakra as both a “shield and a sword”, India’s vision for a next-gen, all-weather, AI-powered air defence system is gaining momentum. The project will require massive integration of sensors, surveillance tools, missile systems, and artificial intelligence, potentially transforming India’s national security architecture.
As the development moves forward, Sudarshan Chakra is expected to become a strategic backbone for India’s defence readiness, offering both deterrence and response capabilities against evolving threats — from drones to hypersonic weapons.
Read also: INS Trikand Calls at Limassol, Cyprus, Strengthening India-Cyprus Maritime Ties
