Indian Army Reinvents Tank Warfare with Anti-Drone Shields
As drone warfare rises, the Indian Army equips T-90 and T-72 tanks with anti-drone systems to bolster battlefield survivability.
Indian Army Adapts to Drone Warfare with High-Tech Tank Shields
As battlefields across the world evolve, the Indian Army is making a calculated leap toward the future. Recognizing the rising dominance of drone warfare — witnessed most starkly in the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict — India’s defense forces are taking preemptive action. Their latest move? Equipping T-90 and T-72 main battle tanks with state-of-the-art anti-drone technology.
This modernization plan underscores a larger shift in global military strategy — from conventional face-offs to asymmetrical, technology-driven warfare. With unmanned aerial systems (UAS) transforming the dynamics of combat, India’s armored units are gearing up for a new age of threats from the skies.
Reinventing the Modern Tank: C-UAS Integration
In response to these challenges, India’s Ministry of Defence has initiated procurement for approximately 75 Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS), specifically tailored for integration into T-90 and T-72 platforms. A formal Request for Information (RFI) has been issued, inviting global and domestic defense manufacturers, private vendors, and government-backed firms to offer their solutions.
The aim is ambitious yet necessary — full system deployment within 36 months.
According to defense analysts, the very nature of threats has shifted. Unlike traditional anti-tank measures, which targeted the front and sides of armored vehicles, drones can strike from virtually any angle — and often from above, where tanks are most vulnerable.
Limitations of Traditional Armor and the Need for Innovation
The T-90 and T-72 tanks, staples of India’s armored regiments, are designed for a delicate balance of firepower, agility, and defense. But simply adding more armor is no longer an effective strategy. Not only does it compromise mobility, but it also does little to defend against aerial incursions from small, nimble drones.
Instead, integrating C-UAS platforms provides a smarter solution — one that doesn’t weigh down the tanks but enhances their survivability against a broad range of threats. These systems can include radar, jamming equipment, electro-optical sensors, and even directed-energy weapons capable of neutralizing drones mid-air.
From Desert to High Altitude: A Pan-Theater Solution
What makes India’s initiative especially notable is the demand for adaptability. The Army has made it clear: these anti-drone systems must operate seamlessly in varied terrains — from scorching deserts and expansive plains to the icy heights of Ladakh and Sikkim.
Currently, India maintains a formidable fleet of approximately 1,700 T-90s and 2,000 T-72s, many of which are deployed along sensitive borders with Pakistan and China. Since 2020, a considerable number of these tanks have been stationed in Ladakh — often at altitudes reaching 15,000 feet — where both terrain and temperature present additional operational challenges.
The ability to mount and maintain functional C-UAS on tanks in such extreme conditions is crucial. Not only must these systems work, but they must do so without compromising the tank’s combat readiness or maneuverability.
Learning from the Frontlines: Cage Armor and Beyond
In the wake of rising drone strikes, especially those involving cheap, explosive-laden quadcopters, the Indian Army has already experimented with cage armor — a makeshift protective frame installed around tank turrets. While effective in the short term, this solution comes at a cost. Added bulk can hinder performance, reduce visibility, and complicate maintenance.
By contrast, the platform-based C-UAS strategy offers a more elegant and future-proof answer. Instead of relying on physical deterrents alone, the Army is moving toward electronic and digital shields — a shift that aligns with military trends across NATO and other global forces.
A Global Shift and an Indian Response
As countries worldwide pivot toward unmanned warfare, India’s defense doctrine is catching up. The rise of drone technology has been called the “third revolution in warfare,” and armies that fail to adapt may find themselves outpaced on the battlefield.
The United States, Israel, and even Ukraine have begun developing dedicated anti-drone divisions and technologies, investing billions into research and deployment. India’s investment in tank-mounted C-UAS could place it among the frontrunners in this domain — provided the systems meet battlefield expectations and are rolled out without delays.
Final Thoughts: Preparing for a New Kind of War
India’s push to protect its tank fleet with anti-drone systems is more than just a defense upgrade — it’s a strategic pivot. In a world where low-cost drones can cripple million-dollar machines, adapting quickly isn’t just smart; it’s essential.
By combining traditional firepower with cutting-edge defense tech, the Indian Army is sending a clear signal: it’s ready for whatever the future battlefield holds — whether on the plains of Rajasthan or the peaks of the Himalayas.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information and official statements. It does not reflect classified military plans or confidential defense procurement details. All opinions and interpretations are journalistic and intended for informational purposes only.
source : India Today