New Delhi: With evolving aerial threats like drones, cruise missiles, and stealth aircraft reshaping modern warfare, the Indian Air Force is planning to procure next-generation long-range surveillance radars (LRSR) to strengthen its air defence network.
The new systems will replace legacy radars, some of which have been operational since the 1970s, and are expected to significantly enhance India’s ability to monitor and respond to complex aerial threats.
Key Capabilities of New Radars
The IAF has outlined advanced requirements in its Request for Information (RFI), including:
Detection range of over 450 km and altitude coverage up to 40 km
Ability to track ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones
Detection of low radar cross-section targets (stealthy or small objects)
Automatic classification of targets (fixed-wing, rotary aircraft, UAVs)
These radars will be mobile, vehicle-mounted systems, allowing rapid deployment across diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The proposed systems will use:
4D phased array radar technology (tracking distance, direction, speed, and altitude)
Gallium Nitride (GaN) semiconductor tech for higher efficiency and power
Integrated Identification of Friend or Foe (IFF) systems
360-degree coverage in extreme conditions (−40°C to +50°C, up to 16,000 ft altitude)
Additionally, an X-band radar will be co-located for enhanced drone detection, with fused displays for better situational awareness.
India has already made progress in this domain, with the Defence Research and Development Organisation developing indigenous GaN chips in 2023—making the country one of a select few with this capability.
Context: Rising Importance of Air Defence
Modern conflicts—including engagements like Operation Sindoor (2025)—have highlighted the growing role of missiles and drones as primary combat platforms.
India currently operates a wide mix of radar systems:
The High Power Static Radar (range ~430 km), developed with France’s Thomson-CSF and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited
Indigenous systems like Arudhra and Surya radars developed by DRDO
Recent high-power radar orders involving Larsen and Toubro
Strategic Significance
The new LRSRs are expected to:
Plug surveillance gaps, especially along sensitive borders like the Himalayas
Enhance detection of stealth and low-flying threats
Provide a comprehensive real-time air picture for faster decision-making
Overall, the procurement marks a major step in modernising India’s air defence architecture, aligning it with the demands of next-generation warfare.
