Dharashakti EW Triumph: ₹5,150 Cr Deal for Desert Battlefield Edge
In a strategic move to dominate desert and plains battlefields, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared a ₹5,150 crore deal on October 14, 2025, for the indigenous Dharashakti Electronic Warfare (EW) system. Designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by a consortium including Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and private firms like L&T, this advanced suite promises to revolutionize the Indian Army’s operational edge along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Western borders. With capabilities to jam enemy communications, radar, and drones, Dharashakti aligns with the 2025 indigenization push, boasting 64% local content. How will this system reshape multi-domain warfare, and what hurdles must be overcome?
Dharashakti Unveiled: A Desert Warfare Game-Changer
Dharashakti, meaning “power of the earth,” is tailored for arid terrains like Rajasthan and the Thar Desert, where electronic dominance can decide outcomes. Tested in June 2025 at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, it integrates signal intelligence (SIGINT), jamming, and anti-drone defenses. Key features include:
- Range: Jams signals up to 300 km with phased-array technology.
- Capabilities: Disrupts enemy radar, VHF/UHF communications, and UAV swarms.
- Compatibility: Links with Akash and S-400 systems for layered defense.
- Mobility: Mounted on BMP-2 vehicles for rapid deployment.
The system’s debut during a joint Army-Air Force exercise in September 2025 showcased its ability to neutralize Pakistani UAVs at 150 km, a feat celebrated on X with @DRDO_India’s test clip garnering 15K+ views. DRDO director general Dr. S. Guruprasad called it “a shield and sword for desert ops,” with initial deliveries expected by late 2026 from BEL’s Pune facility.
Strategic Impact: Multi-Domain Mastery
The ₹5,150 crore deal equips 12 Army divisions, enhancing electronic warfare along the 3,488 km LAC and 2,900 km Pakistan border. Dharashakti counters China’s advanced EW systems (e.g., Type 726-4) and Pakistan’s ELINT networks, providing real-time threat analysis and jamming. Its integration with theater commands, post-Operation Sindoor (August 2025), strengthens air-ground coordination.
Indigenization at 64%—up from 50% in earlier EW systems—reflects Atmanirbhar Bharat goals, with L&T contributing chassis and antennae. The deal saves ₹2,000 crore over imported alternatives like Israel’s EL/M-2084, per MoD estimates.
Compare its specs:
| System | Range (km) | Key Feature | Indigenization | Cost (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dharashakti | 300 | Anti-drone jamming | 64% | 5,150 |
| Samvahak (predecessor) | 150 | SIGINT | 50% | 3,000 |
| EL/M-2084 (Israel) | 250 | Multi-band jamming | 0% | 7,150 |
| Type 726-4 (China) | 200 | Radar jamming | N/A | ~4,500 (est.) |
| Source: DRDO/MoD 2025 | Dharashakti’s Edge | ||||
Challenges and the Path Forward
Production scaling poses challenges. BEL faces supply chain delays for gallium nitride (GaN) components, pushing full rollout to 2028. Integration with S-400 requires software alignment, while training 5,000 personnel by 2027 demands accelerated iDEX programs. Cost overruns—initial ₹4,800 crore estimates rose due to R&D—are offset by export potential to Middle East allies.
The Army plans to pair Dharashakti with Rudram-2 missiles for air EW, targeting 75% indigenization by 2030. With 2025 budget utilization at 51%, this deal aligns with ₹1.12 lakh crore capital outlay, per MoD data.
Conclusion: A New Desert Doctrine
Dharashakti’s deployment heralds a new era of electronic warfare for India, securing desert frontiers and boosting exports. As Dr. Guruprasad noted, “It’s a leap in multi-domain ops.” Overcoming production delays will be key. What’s your take on this desert shield? Share below!
