Mission Sudarshan Chakra

India is advancing its air defence capabilities through Mission Sudarshan Chakra. This ambitious project aims to create a nationwide, multilayered air defence shield by 2035. It will integrate thousands of radars, satellites, and directed energy weapons (DEWs) into a single, cohesive network. The system will protect strategic locations and population centres from aerial threats such as hostile aircraft, drones, and missiles.

Recent Developments and Strategic Context

Mission Sudarshan Chakra was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a comprehensive, networked defence system. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh brought into light its focus on indigenous technology to ensure self-reliance. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, described it as India’s version of the Iron Dome, capable of both defence and offensive operations. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently tested an integrated air defence weapon system combining missiles and lasers, marking a key milestone.

Components of the Defence Network

The shield will link 6,000 to 7,000 radars, including Over-the-Horizon (OTH) radars that detect threats far beyond the visible horizon. It will also incorporate 52 new surveillance satellites by 2030 under the Space-Based Surveillance programme. Directed energy weapons, primarily laser-based systems, will neutralise enemy targets swiftly. These components will be integrated with missile systems, anti-drone technologies, and air defence guns to create a layered defence.

Integration and Technology Use

Mission Sudarshan Chakra will unify assets from the armed forces, paramilitary, defence PSUs, private sector, and R&D bodies. Artificial intelligence, big data analytics, quantum computing, and large language models will be crucial for real-time threat analysis and decision-making. The system will manage colossal data streams to detect, identify, and neutralise threats efficiently.

Scope and Coverage Expansion

Currently, India’s air defence mainly protects military and strategic installations. Sudarshan Chakra will extend coverage to key urban centres and critical infrastructure nationwide. This expansion aims to shield India’s population and assets against modern aerial threats in a rapidly evolving warfare environment.

Indigenous Development and Global Integration

Most technologies and platforms will be developed domestically, supporting India’s push for self-reliance in defence. However, existing global systems will also be integrated to form a consolidated network. This hybrid approach ensures advanced capability while encouraging indigenous innovation.