The initiative is part of a nationwide armed forces mapping exercise to build protective shields against hostile surveillance and kamikaze drones.
The Ministry of Defence is strengthening security around key military installations in the national capital by adding a dedicated counter-drone layer within the larger Delhi Dome air defence grid. The move follows Pakistan’s failed attempt to target Delhi during the 88-hour long Operation Sindoor and reflects rising concerns over unmanned aerial threats.
Sources said the Indian Air Force, which provides tri services operational oversight of air defence, has already installed a counter-drone system at Vayu Sena Bhavan and is in the process of deploying a similar system at Nausena Bhavan. This initiative forms part of a nationwide mapping exercise by the armed forces to establish protective shields combining kinetic and non kinetic systems to counter hostile surveillance and kamikaze drones.
At Vayu Sena Bhavan, the Vajra Sentinel anti drone system has been deployed. Developed by Chennai-based Big Bang Boom Solutions, the system is designed to detect and neutralise commercially available drones. It can simultaneously track up to 15 drones, making it effective against swarm threats and enhancing situational awareness around sensitive locations. This complements the DRDO developed D-4 counter-drone system already used to secure the Kartavya Path, according to sources.
Officials noted that while plans for a layered air defence architecture have existed for years to prevent a 9/11-style aerial attack, the increasing global use of drones for sabotage has added urgency. The conflict in Ukraine, where drones have enabled sustained attacks deep inside adversary territory, has further sharpened focus.
Under the evolving Delhi Dome framework, the outer layer will guard against ballistic missile threats, while the inner layer will rely on surface to air missiles, guns and networked command systems. The effort aligns with the Sudarshan Chakra air defence initiative announced by the Prime Minister, with funding expected in an upcoming allocation.
