Unmanned aerial systems are transforming modern military operations. While drones offer significant advantages in surveillance, reconnaissance and tactical support, their increasing accessibility has also created new security challenges. Coordinated drone swarms, low-cost aerial platforms and autonomous systems are pushing conventional air-defence capabilities to evolve.
As these threats become more complex, defence forces need technologies that can detect, track and neutralise multiple aerial targets effectively.
Understanding High-Power Microwave Technology
High-power microwave (HPM) technology is an emerging directed-energy capability designed to disrupt or damage the electronic components of targeted systems using concentrated electromagnetic energy.
Unlike conventional interception methods that rely on physical projectiles, HPM systems can engage electronic threats without requiring a separate interceptor for every target. This makes the technology particularly relevant to counter-drone applications, where multiple unmanned platforms may operate together.
Its potential advantages include rapid engagement, reduced dependence on conventional ammunition and the possibility of addressing groups of electronic targets. However, effectiveness depends on factors such as range, power requirements, targeting precision and environmental conditions.
Strengthening India's Counter-Drone Ecosystem
For India, developing advanced counter-drone technologies is an important part of strengthening national security and defence preparedness. Indigenous research in directed-energy systems, radar technologies, electronic warfare and advanced electronics can contribute to a more integrated air-defence ecosystem.
The development of such capabilities also creates opportunities for defence startups, MSMEs, research institutions and established manufacturers. Expertise in power electronics, semiconductor devices, thermal management, control systems and electromagnetic engineering will be essential to translating research into deployable solutions.
From Research to Operational Capability
The next challenge is moving promising technologies beyond laboratory demonstrations. Testing, system integration, reliability, power management and compatibility with existing defence infrastructure will determine their operational value.
Collaboration between defence organisations, industry and academic institutions can accelerate this process by connecting specialised research with manufacturing expertise and practical requirements.
Shaping the Future of Defence Technology
High-power microwave systems represent one of several emerging approaches to addressing increasingly sophisticated aerial threats. As defence technology advances, the ability to develop indigenous, scalable and interoperable solutions will become increasingly important.
BDTS 2027 – Forging the Sovereign Battlespace aims to bring together defence stakeholders, technology developers, startups, researchers and industry leaders to explore the innovations shaping India's future defence capabilities.