To combat new aerial threats including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), swarm drones, rockets, artillery, and mortar (URAM), the Ministry of Defense has released a Request for Information to purchase a next-generation Air Defence Gun system for the Indian Army.
This program highlights the changing nature of aerial warfare by drawing on lessons learned from Operation Sindoor, in which adversaries on the western front used drones and swarm formations for observation and strikes against public and military infrastructure.
According to officials, the proposed technology is intended to close important gaps in short-range air defense by facilitating the quick identification, tracking, and neutralization of low-signature targets. Particular attention is paid to electrically driven drones, which are challenging to identify using traditional radar and infrared technologies.
In keeping with the larger defense indigenization movement, the Army has mandated that the system have at least 50% indigenous content, with a focus on domestic manufacture and knowledge transfer.
The ADG-NG is intended to be a mobile platform with an integrated Electro-Optical Fire Control System that may be towed or installed on a vehicle. This will enable 24/7 autonomous target identification, tracking, and engagement in all weather.
With the ability to combat a variety of threats, such as fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions, rocket, artillery, and mortar threats, the system is anticipated to offer terminal air defense for vulnerable areas and vital installations.
The gun must be able to engage targets moving at up to 500 meters per second and have a minimum firing range of 4 kilometers. It should be able to fire at least 300 rounds per minute and have an engagement ceiling of at least 2.5 kilometers.Sales of tactical equipment
The Army’s intention to combat a variety of low-cost aerial threats is reflected in the RFI’s inclusion of atypical airborne objects like paramotors, paragliders, and micro-light aircraft.
In terms of ammunition, the Army has looked into both traditional high-explosive rounds with tracers and programmable smart rounds with pre-fragmented and proximity-fused capabilities. Every ammunition must have a self-destruct mechanism and a minimum ten-year shelf life.
Along with variable power options including onboard generators, batteries, and mains supply with allowances for silent operation, the system must also have an autoloader that can be operated by no more than two individuals.
Future improvements and adaptability have been prioritized, and it is anticipated that the cannon will work flawlessly with current radar and navigation systems. The scope of threats the system must manage is indicated by the RFI, which specifies detection, recognition, and identification parameters against a variety of targets, from small commercial drones like the DJI Mavic-Pro-3 to platforms like the helicopters and frontline fighter aircraft like the Chinese JF-17.
As the Army adjusts to the realities of drone-dominated battlefields, vendors have been asked to submit technical specifics and product information by June 11, 2026. This is the first phase in what is expected to be a keenly followed procurement program.
