DRDO prioritizes development of High-Power Microwave Technology to counter emerging drone threats
Source : The News Mil
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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is planning to develop a high-power microwave (HPM) system with a 1km range to counter drone threats, according to a report from The Indian Express.
This initiative follows the earlier development of a 1KW laser weapon, also with a range of 1km, integrated into the D4 Anti-Drone System, which is already in service. DRDO aims to further strengthen India’s directed-energy weapons arsenal to handle the increasing challenges posed by unmanned aerial systems.
What are high-power microwave weapons?
High-power microwave (HPM) weapons utilise concentrated electromagnetic radiation to disrupt or destroy the electronic systems of drones. These weapons generate intense microwave pulses that interfere with the internal electronics, effectively disabling the target’s ability to fly. Unlike conventional weapons that rely on physical impact, HPM systems focus on electronic warfare principles.
HPM systems emit microwave energy that penetrates various materials, impacting sensitive components like sensors and communication devices within the drone. This neutralises the drone without causing physical destruction, making HPM systems valuable in scenarios where drones depend on electronics for navigation and control.
Differences between high-power microwave and laser weapons
Although both high-power microwave (HPM) and laser systems are classified as directed-energy weapons, they operate on distinct principles. Laser weapons utilise focused light waves to inflict damage on drones by generating intense heat. This concentrated energy can burn through surfaces and disrupt critical components, such as cameras and control circuits. Laser systems primarily target specific parts of a drone, like wings or electronic housings, which can lead to loss of control and forced crashes. They are typically limited to engaging one drone at a time, and the speed at which the laser weapon neutralises the drone depends on its power output. The need for precise targeting and continuous tracking can limit their ability to handle saturation attacks.
In contrast, HPM systems operate by emitting microwave energy that can affect multiple drones simultaneously. The emitted microwaves can penetrate various materials, directly impacting the electronic systems within the drones, such as navigation and communication devices. This broad area of effect allows HPM systems to disrupt or neutralise several drones at once, making them particularly effective against swarm tactics, where multiple drones may be launched simultaneously. The rapid response capability of HPM systems means they can engage threats quickly without the need for precise tracking.
Overall, while laser systems excel in precision targeting, HPM systems provide a wider coverage area and faster engagement capabilities, making them complementary technologies in counter-drone operations.
Cost effectiveness against swarm drones
Both high-power microwave (HPM) and laser weapons are significantly more cost-effective than missile-based defence systems when addressing drone swarms. Missiles are expensive to manufacture and deploy, often costing several times more than the drones they target. For instance, US and NATO allies shot down Houthi drones, which cost only a few thousand dollars, using missiles worth more than $1 million each. Given that each missile typically engages a single drone, this leads to much higher costs during swarm attacks involving numerous drones.
In contrast, HPM and laser systems operate using electricity, significantly reducing operational costs. These systems can be used repeatedly without the expense of restocking ammunition. The low cost per engagement allows them to handle multiple threats without incurring substantial financial burdens.
Additionally, the maintenance costs of HPM and laser systems are generally much lower compared to traditional missile-based defences. Their cost efficiency, along with the ability to neutralise multiple drones, makes them a practical and sustainable choice for modern air defence. By introducing HPM systems in conjunction with existing laser weapons, DRDO aims to significantly enhance India’s capability to defend against swarm drone threats.
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