The Indian Army has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for 83 tracked platforms to deploy the Akashteer air-defence system in mechanised combat zones.
CADET: Enhancing Mobility in Battlefields
The proposed platform, designated Carrier Air Defence Tracked (CADET), will:
- Move alongside tanks and mechanised infantry
- Provide real-time air defence coordination in combat
- Replace less mobile wheeled command vehicles
Why Tracked Platforms Are Needed
The move addresses operational gaps identified after the 2020 Ladakh standoff, where:
- Wheeled vehicles struggled in rugged, high-altitude terrain
- Armoured columns required mobile air defence cover
- Rapid deployment capability became critical
What is Akashteer System?
Akashteer, developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation, is an advanced networked system that:
- Integrates radars, missiles and guns
- Enables real-time target detection and engagement
- Forms the backbone of India’s layered air defence architecture
Advanced Capabilities of CADET
The tracked carriers must meet stringent requirements:
- Operate from –30°C to +50°C and up to 5,000 metres altitude
- Speed: 45 km/h (road), 15 km/h (cross-country)
- Range: 320 km+
- Ballistic protection: STANAG Level II–III
- Multi-navigation support: GPS, GLONASS, NavIC
- Silent operation capability via auxiliary power unit
Future-Ready Air Defence Integration
CADET platforms will also support:
- Drone detection and counter-swarm systems
- Electronic warfare resilience
- Seamless integration with modern battlefield networks
Procurement and Indigenous Push
- 83 units to be delivered within 36 months
- Procurement under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category (65% indigenous content)
- Order may be split between two vendors to ensure competition and resilience
Strategic Significance
The requirement aligns with:
- Rapid deployment capability using C-17 Globemaster III
- Strengthening air defence along sensitive sectors like the LAC
- Enhancing survivability of mechanised forces in modern warfare
Towards Integrated Battlefield Readiness
The project reflects India’s shift towards:
- Network-centric warfare
- Mobile, integrated air defence systems
- Greater self-reliance in defence manufacturing
