This Southern India Port Makes History With India’s First Anti-Drone System

India has taken a major step to strengthen port and coastal security. The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has become the first port in the country to deploy an advanced Anti-Drone System. With drones increasingly posing security risks, this move aims to protect critical port infrastructure and operations. The initiative reflects India’s growing focus on maritime safety, technology-driven surveillance, and preparedness against emerging aerial threats.

Advanced Counter-Drone Technology at VOC Port

• The VOC Port Anti-Drone System integrates radio frequency (RF) and radar-based technologies, specially designed for complex port environments.
• It offers 360-degree omnidirectional coverage with an operational range of up to 5 kilometres.
• The system includes a drone detector, drone detection radar, and a man-pack jammer, forming a quick-deploy and comprehensive security solution.
• This layered technology ensures round-the-clock surveillance of sensitive operational zones.

Real-Time Detection and Neutralisation Capability

• A key strength of the VOC Port Anti-Drone System is its ability to provide real-time detection, tracking, classification, and neutralisation of unauthorised drones.
• This significantly enhances safety for port assets, personnel, cargo, and ongoing operations.
• Developed as an indigenous electronic countermeasure solution, the system boosts India’s capability to counter aerial threats in coastal and maritime domains, reducing risks of espionage, sabotage, or accidents.

Project Agreement and Implementation Timeline

• The project agreement was signed between the port authority and Central Electronics Limited, a Government of India enterprise under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology.
• The system is expected to be fully operational within three months.
• Senior officials, including Chairman Susanta Kumar Purohit and Deputy Chairperson Rajesh Soundararajan, were present at the signing ceremony.

Why Anti-Drone Systems Are Crucial for Ports

• Ports are critical infrastructure handling trade, energy supplies, and strategic cargo.
• The rise of low-cost drones has created new security challenges.
• The VOC Port Anti-Drone System addresses these risks by preventing unauthorised aerial surveillance and intrusion.
• Experts view this move as essential for modern maritime governance, especially for ports located along busy international shipping routes.

Alignment with National Maritime Vision

• The deployment aligns with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which emphasise safety, resilience, and technological advancement.
• Enhanced airspace surveillance, improved emergency response, and compliance with evolving coastal defence norms will position VOC Port as a model for security innovation.
• The initiative reinforces India’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime assets.

Background: VOC Port

• V.O. Chidambaranar Port, located at Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu, is one of India’s major ports.
• It plays a vital role in cargo handling, energy imports, and regional trade. Continuous modernisation and security upgrades have made it a key node in India’s maritime network.

Question

Q. Which port became the first in India to deploy an anti-drone system?

A. Jawaharlal Nehru Port
B. Paradip Port
C. V.O. Chidambaranar Port
D. Cochin Port