India advances drone defense and smart border security

India is advancing its defense capabilities through new manufacturing agreements and a comprehensive smart border security initiative. Paras Defence & Space Technologies has secured exclusive rights from US-based Powerus, via its subsidiary Tandem Defense LLC, to manufacture and commercialize Guardian interceptor technology within the Indian market. While this agreement does not guarantee immediate military procurement, it aligns with the Indian Army’s recent efforts to acquire kinetic counter-drone systems capable of physically destroying or capturing hostile unmanned aircraft.

Simultaneously, India is developing a technology-driven “smart border” architecture. This integrated network aims to link sensors, artificial intelligence, drones, and command centers to provide seamless monitoring from forward border areas to New Delhi. The program is designed to address diverse geographical challenges, including the mountainous stretches of the China border, the riverine areas near Bangladesh, and the drone-related smuggling threats along the Pakistan border. This shift toward AI-driven surveillance and integrated defense infrastructure is part of a broader national strategy to modernize border management and reduce reliance on constant physical patrolling.