Revolutionary Handheld System Takes Down Drones with Pinpoint Precision
At Aero India 2025, Hubli-based startup Astr Defence stole the spotlight with its groundbreaking Chakra Trap—a handheld counter-UAV system that’s redefining how we neutralize hostile drones. This isn’t just another gadget; it’s a non-electronic, hard-kill solution that physically captures and disables drones, offering a reliable alternative to traditional jamming technologies.
Why the Chakra Trap is a Game-Changer
In a world where drone threats are evolving faster than countermeasures, the Chakra Trap stands out as a first-of-its-kind innovation. Designed to tackle autonomous, remote-controlled, and even wired drones, this system is a lifesaver for soldiers in high-stakes scenarios where conventional methods fall short.
How It Works: Precision Meets Power
The Chakra Trap is a handheld launcher equipped with an AI-powered fire control system and Smart Sight for detection, tracking, and targeting. Here’s the kicker: it uses a grenade-based projectile that deploys a high-tensile net to entangle and disable drones mid-air.
- Operational Range: Up to 500 meters (surpassing the global standard of 150-200 meters).
- Target Accuracy: AI-driven targeting ensures pinpoint precision, leaving no room for error.
- Deployment: Just a single trigger press is needed—the system automates the rest.
Chakra Trap Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology | Hard-kill, non-electronic counter-UAV system |
| Mechanism | Grenade-based projectile deploying an 8-square-meter net |
| Target Types | Autonomous, remote-controlled, and wired drones |
| Operational Range | Up to 500 meters |
| AI Integration | Smart Sight and AI-based fire control for precision targeting |
| Deployment Timeline | Expected integration by Indian Air Force (IAF) in June-July 2025 |
| Extreme Testing | Successful trials in Pune; upcoming tests in Siachen’s high-altitude conditions |
The Problem with Traditional Counter-Drone Systems
Traditional methods like jamming (soft-kill) are becoming obsolete. Modern drones are equipped with anti-jamming tech and wired controls, making them resistant to electronic countermeasures. The Chakra Trap’s hard-kill approach bypasses these limitations, offering a fail-safe solution to neutralize drones without collateral damage.
What Makes the Chakra Trap Unique?
- First-of-its-Kind: The world’s first implementation of a net-based, hard-kill counter-UAV system.
- Versatility: Effective against all drone types, including those resistant to jamming.
- Soldier Empowerment: Provides unit-level counter-drone capabilities, enhancing operational flexibility.
- Collateral Damage-Free: Captures drones without risking harm to surrounding assets or personnel.
Successful Trials and Future Plans
The Chakra Trap has already aced tests at the Pune firing range, with extreme-environment trials in Siachen scheduled in the coming months. The Indian Air Force has already funded the project and plans to integrate it into its operations by mid-2025.
Astr Defence: Hubli’s Pride in Defence Innovation
Astr Defence isn’t new to innovation. The Hubli-based startup has previously developed advanced firearms, including pistols and rifles. With the Chakra Trap, they’re taking India’s air defence capabilities to the next level, ensuring our armed forces are equipped to tackle modern drone threats head-on.
Quotes from the CEO
Ankush Koravi, CEO of Astr Defence, shared his vision:
“The Chakra Trap is a reliable, non-electronic solution to neutralize all UAV types, especially where soft-kill systems fail. With a 500-meter range and AI-powered precision, it’s a game-changer for the Indian Armed Forces.”
The Bottom Line
The Chakra Trap isn’t just a technological marvel—it’s a lifesaving tool for soldiers on the frontlines. By combining AI-driven precision with a hard-kill mechanism, Astr Defence has created a system that’s set to revolutionize counter-drone warfare.
Official Website: https://astrdefence.com/
Stay tuned as Astr Defence from Hubli soars to new heights with the Chakra Trap!
