Indian Army Acquires Target Systems to Counter Drones and Missile Threats

The Indian Army has launched an initiative to acquire three advanced target systems designed to simulate modern aerial threats, including drone swarms, helicopters, and cruise missiles. This procurement drive follows a series of emergency purchases of drones and air defence missiles made over the past year to fill critical capability gaps. The new systems are intended to provide soldiers with realistic practice for engaging sophisticated, fast-moving, and low-altitude threats on the battlefield.

Three Requests for Information (RFIs) have been issued to procure intermediate-level rocket target systems, basic target systems for swarm drones, and multirotor copter systems. These platforms will allow military personnel to train with authorized directed energy weapons and infrared-seeking air defence missiles. According to the Army, the target systems must be modular, easily transportable, and capable of being remotely controlled or programmed for autonomous waypoints to replicate the maneuvers of modern aerial weaponry.

The move underscores a strategic pivot toward preparing military units for the rapidly evolving landscape of aerial combat, where traditional aircraft are increasingly supplemented by unmanned systems and missile platforms. By deploying recoverable, reusable targets like the multirotor copters—which can be engaged at ranges between 1.5 and 15 kilometers—the Army aims to refine its defensive response protocols. This training infrastructure expansion is expected to enhance the operational readiness of air defence units tasked with protecting national assets from emerging global aerial threats.