Defense

The order has emerged alongside a broader expansion of Sanlayan’s activities across radar systems, electronic warfare, counter-drone technology, avionics, RF and microwave electronics, embedded systems and high-power electronics. Recent company-linked disclosures also indicate that Sanlayan has received development work associated with a next-generation DRDO drone-detection radar and electronic-warfare payloads intended for unmanned platforms.

The Army has identified applications for the system across both conventional warfare and sub-conventional operations, including situations in which combat engineers or assault teams must destroy fortified positions, breach obstacles, neutralise hazardous explosive threats or conduct controlled demolition while reducing the exposure of soldiers.

The collaboration will cover hazardous-environment robotics, confined-space operations, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, critical-infrastructure inspection, engineer support, AI-enabled inspection and remote sensing.

Of the 26 modifications planned for each tank, six are described as major upgrades. These include a commander’s panoramic sight, Mk-II gunner’s main sight, automatic target tracker, improved muzzle-reference system, upgraded track and advanced running-gear system.

The developments were disclosed in HAL’s latest annual report, which identifies them among technologies designed and developed from the ground up for the LCA Mk2 platform. While neither system attracts the attention normally associated with radar, electronic warfare or weapons, they represent the kind of underlying aircraft technology that determines reliability, safety, maintainability and operational availability over a fighter’s service life.

Announced on 31 August 2026, CITADEL — short for Critical Infrastructure Threat Detection & Electronic Layer — represents an expansion of counter-drone technology beyond conventional military bases and battlefield environments. Zen Technologies has positioned the system as a configurable protective layer for facilities whose uninterrupted operation has become increasingly important to India’s digital, industrial and strategic infrastructure.