Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS): Future of Warfare

The history of war is replete with instances where a nation that has effectively, and innovatively harnessed technology has been victorious. From innovations stem revolutions in military warfare, and the current world order is witnessing a very profound and rapid revolution through the employment of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), be it in conventional conflicts such as Nagorno–Karabakh (Azerbaijan–Armenia), the current Russia–Ukraine conflict or the unconventional ‘Global War on Terror’ in Afghanistan. The innovative and teamed employment of UAS has been the defining factor in modern conflicts. Thus, it is imperative for modern forces to possess counter-UAS capability, which shall redefine the future of warfare.

This article discusses the future roles of UAS, analyses its tactical, operational and strategic impact, assesses its vulnerabilities and having ascertained the need for counter-UAS (C-UAS) capabilities in future wars, suggests a C-UAS philosophy, methodology, kill chain and plausible approach in the Indian context.