From groundbreaking electronic warfare by DRDO to the Pralay missile and SANJAY battlefield surveillance system, India’s defence innovations left a lasting impression at the 76th Republic Day at the Kartavya Path.
The 76th Republic Day Parade in New Delhi featured a spectacular showcase of India’s defence innovations, centred around the theme ‘Raksha Kavach – Multi-layer Protection against Multi-domain Threats.’
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased several technologies, including cutting-edge electronic warfare, in its tableau that graced the Kartavya Path. Among the highlights were the ‘Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile’ and the ‘Airborne Early Warning & Control System’, vital for improving air defence capabilities.
The 55mm/52 Cal Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, alongside the Medium Power Radar ‘Arudhra,’ represented advancements in artillery and radar technologies. Other key displays included the indigenous unmanned aerial system and the satellite-based surveillance system, which aim to bolster surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Notably, the electronic warfare system ‘Dharashakti’ was a significant feature of the parade. This system is designed to disrupt enemy communications and radar signals, offering critical protection in modern warfare.
The laser-based directed energy weapon also made an appearance, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in directed energy systems for countering a range of threats. The very short-range air defence system and the indigenous secure satellite phone further underline India’s focus on securing communication channels.
Additional technologies featured included advanced communication tools such as the V/UHF manpack software-defined radio.
DRDO also presented other 2024 milestones, such as the Long Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile and the ‘Zorawar’ Light Tank, alongside the upgraded Dornier aircraft fitted with an electronic warfare system and software-defined radio.
The tableau also highlighted the Pralay Weapon System, a surface-to-surface tactical missile, adding another layer to India’s strategic capabilities.
Moreover, missile systems like BrahMos, the upgraded Pinaka multi-rocket launch system, and the Pralay quasi-ballistic missile system were displayed in the Armed Forces contingents, underlining the evolving landscape of tactical strike options, especially for the Army.
For the first time, a new battlefield surveillance system (BSS), SANJAY, made its debut at the parade, too. On Friday, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off the Army’s new addition to its arsenal. This automated system, valued at ₹24.02 billion, integrates battlefield sensors to provide a comprehensive surveillance picture, enhancing operational transparency.
Developed by the Indian Army and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), it is set to transform the battlefield with its high-tech monitoring capabilities. It will be deployed across Army formations from March 2025.
According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the SANJAY system marks a significant leap towards network-centric warfare and data-centric operations within the Indian Army.
