New Delhi, Feb 26 ,2025 : The Indian Army has signed a contract worth ₹80.43 crore with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Ltd for the procurement of 223 Automatic Chemical Agent Detection and Alarm (ACADA) systems under the ‘Buy Indian (IDDM)’ category. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance the Army’s preparedness against Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats while promoting indigenous defense manufacturing.
The ACADA system, designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), marks a significant milestone in India’s self-reliance initiative in the niche CBRN defense domain. According to a statement from the Defence Ministry, this procurement aligns with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, as over 80% of the system’s components and subsystems will be sourced locally.

The ACADA system plays a crucial role in detecting Chemical Warfare Agents (CWA) and specific Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs) by continuously sampling ambient air. It operates on the principle of Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS), featuring two highly sensitive IMS cells that provide real-time detection and simultaneous monitoring of hazardous and toxic substances. This advanced technology ensures swift and accurate identification of threats, enabling prompt countermeasures to mitigate risks.
The deployment of ACADA systems in field units will significantly enhance the Indian Army’s defensive CBRN capabilities. These systems will be critical not only for military operations but also for peacetime disaster response, particularly in cases of industrial accidents involving chemical leaks or toxic exposure. The ability to detect harmful agents swiftly will improve the Army’s response time, ensuring better safety for both personnel and civilians in emergency situations.
By integrating ACADA into its operational framework, the Indian Army is reinforcing its commitment to modernizing defense technology with homegrown innovations. This contract with L&T highlights the increasing role of Indian defense firms in producing high-tech solutions tailored to the Army’s specific needs.
As CBRN threats continue to evolve globally, the Indian Army’s proactive approach in acquiring cutting-edge detection and protection systems ensures that troops remain well-equipped to handle any potential risks. The successful induction of ACADA will not only strengthen national security but also provide a strong impetus to India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem, further reducing dependence on foreign technology.
This procurement underscores India’s continuous efforts to build a self-sufficient and technologically advanced defense sector, safeguarding the country’s interests against emerging threats.
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