The rise of low-cost drones and loitering munitions has forced militaries worldwide to rethink traditional air-defence strategies. India is responding by developing a layered counter-drone architecture that combines directed-energy weapons, micro-missile systems, upgraded anti-aircraft guns, and integrated command networks. DRDO’s laser weapon programmes, including the MK-II(A) and DURGA-II, aim to provide cost-effective protection against drone swarms while reducing reliance on expensive interceptor missiles.
