 In a strong and swift response, the Indian Army shot down over 600 drones sent by Pakistan during a four-day clash starting May 7, known as Operation Sindoor. Army Air Defence (AAD) units quickly moved into action along the western border, successfully stopping many more drones from causing any harm.
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To protect the country, the Army deployed more than 1,000 anti-aircraft guns and 750 surface-to-air missile systems. These systems, supported by a large network of radars, shifted from peacetime to full battle readiness in no time. This helped India build a multi-layered air defence system to stop drone attacks.
A senior officer said the operation not only protected important military and civilian areas but also proved that drones are not unbeatable. “Indian soldiers, supported by home-grown technology and intense training, showed they can defend our skies with great accuracy,” he said.
Pakistan’s plan was to send large groups of drones to test India’s air defence systems, gather information, and try to use up India’s missile and ammunition supplies. But India was well-prepared, having built up strong reserves of ammunition over the last five years due to tensions with China in Ladakh.
Another officer explained, “Pakistan tried to gather real-time data and target cities, military bases, and religious places. But they completely failed.”
India was smart in using its radar systems — not keeping all of them active at once — to avoid giving away electronic signals that Pakistan could track. Also, the Army did not waste high-end systems like the Russian S-400 or the Barak-8 missiles on small, low-cost drones.
Instead, older anti-aircraft guns such as the L-70, ZU-23mm twin-barrel guns, and upgraded Schilka systems were used. These were very effective against low-flying drone swarms and proved their worth in modern warfare.
India’s homegrown Akash missile systems were used to target bigger threats like aircraft, armed drones, and Turkish kamikaze drones. The Army also deployed six units of the new Akashteer air defence control system, which worked closely with the Indian Air Force’s control system to provide a real-time air picture to commanders on the ground.
“Akashteer gave us excellent situational awareness and helped commanders take fast decisions without risking our own aircraft,” an officer said. He called the operation a “turning point” in India’s air defence readiness due to the quick action, large-scale coordination, and use of both new and old technology.
