Strengthening its CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) defence capabilities, the Indian Army has signed a contract to acquire 223 Automatic Chemical Agent Detection and Alarm (ACADA) systems.

The agreement, valued at Rs 80.43 crore, was signed on February 25, 2025, with Larsen & Toubro (L&T Ltd) under the Buy Indian (IDDM) category.

On Tuesday, the Army conveyed, “Induction of ACADA in the field units will substantially enhance Indian Army’s defensive CBRN capability for operations, as well as for peacetime, especially for responding to disaster relief situations related to industrial accidents.”

The ACADA system is designed to detect chemical warfare agents (CWA) and specific toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) by analysing air samples from the surrounding environment.

This development will greatly support the government's Atma Nirbharta initiative, as over 80% of the system’s components and subsystems will be locally sourced.

As part of the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, procurement will be carried out through an Indian vendor, ensuring that the product is indigenously designed, developed, and manufactured (IDDM).

ACADA, developed by DRDO’s Defence Research and Development Establishment in Gwalior, represents a major step forward in India’s push for self-reliance in the specialised field of CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) defence.

The system uses Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) technology and features two highly sensitive IMS cells that enable continuous detection and real-time monitoring of toxic or harmful substances.

As chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats evolve worldwide, the Indian Army is taking proactive steps to equip its forces with advanced detection and protection systems. The successful induction of ACADA will enhance national security while boosting India's defence manufacturing sector reducing reliance on foreign technology.

This acquisition highlights India’s ongoing commitment to developing a self-sufficient and technologically advanced defence industry, ensuring the country remains prepared to counter emerging threats.