DRDO's Active Protection System: A Game-Changer for Indian Armoured Vehicles

DRDO's Active Protection System: A Game-Changer for Indian Armoured Vehicles\n\nThe Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently unveiled new details of its domestically developed Active Protection System (APS) for armoured vehicles. This cutting-edge technology is designed to provide 360-degree coverage and detect incoming threats at a range of 20 to 50 metres.\n\nAccording to DRDO officials, the system features radar panels arranged around the turret, providing a clear view of the surroundings. The radar panels are designed to quickly detect and track incoming projectiles, allowing the system to determine the trajectory and decide whether an interception is necessary.\n\nThe system also includes two rotating interceptor launcher units mounted on the turret roof. Each launcher is equipped with two anti-threat munitions, offering 180-degree coverage with an elevation of up to 90 degrees.\n\nThe APS is designed to detect and engage a variety of incoming threats, including anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) projectiles, and high-explosive squash head (HESH) projectiles.\n\nThe system's capabilities are a significant upgrade for Indian armoured vehicles, providing enhanced protection for troops and reducing the risk of damage or loss.\n\nThe DRDO's APS technology exhibition has provided a clearer insight into the system's design and capabilities. The exhibition features a diagram of a tank equipped with the APS, showcasing the radar panels and interceptor launcher units.\n\nThe diagram suggests that the radar panels are arranged around the turret, rather than using a single radar. This setup is significant, as it allows for quick detection and tracking of incoming projectiles.\n\nThe DRDO's APS is also capable of detecting small and micro unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at a range of up to 2 km. However, it's essential to note that the system's capabilities are not limited to detecting drones, but also engaging incoming threats.\n\nThe tank depicted in the diagram is typical of a conventional main battle tank, with features that suggest it could be part of the T-90 family setup. However, the image does not specify the platform, and it's too early to say that this is the exact version of the T-90 Bhishma.\n\nThe Indian Army has been seeking an APS for its T-90 fleet, while the DRDO is developing its own system. The latest reports have connected the DRDO project to the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) and the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL).\n\nThe DRDO's APS is a significant development in the field of armoured vehicle protection, and its capabilities are expected to enhance the safety and effectiveness of Indian troops. The system's design and capabilities are a testament to the DRDO's commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies for the Indian military.\n\nAs the DRDO continues to develop and refine its APS, it's clear that this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way Indian armoured vehicles are protected. The DRDO's Active Protection System is a game-changer for Indian armoured vehicles, and its impact will be felt for years to come.