Defence officials said the new security architecture, being developed under the leadership of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will comprise three concentric layers — outer, middle and inner rings — deployed around critical infrastructure across Delhi and its surrounding areas. These include government buildings, airports and other vital installations.

The outer ring will primarily rely on advanced signal-based detection and surveillance systems to identify incoming threats at long range. The middle layer will be equipped with interceptor missiles capable of neutralising hostile missiles, fighter aircraft, drones and loitering munitions. The inner ring will provide close-range protection to sensitive locations.

Officials said the system will also include “soft-kill” capabilities at the command-and-control level. These systems can disrupt or disable hostile platforms using electronic jamming and directed-energy tools such as laser beams, reducing the need for kinetic interception.

The integrated air defence network will be mobile, allowing assets to be repositioned based on threat perception, and designed for periodic upgrades. It will also be linked with India’s existing missile defence assets, including the Russian-origin S-400 system, to ensure seamless coordination across platforms.

Delhi’s strategic importance has been a key factor behind the initiative. The capital houses more than 500 government buildings and institutions, including offices of the central and Delhi governments, constitutional bodies and major public sector undertakings. As the country’s administrative and political nerve centre, Delhi presents a high-value target during conflict situations.

Officials said work on the Capital Dome is at an advanced stage, with the broader “Sudarshan Chakra” network expected to be built around it in phases, marking a significant step in strengthening homeland air defence.