The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has commenced testing of an indigenous photonic radar system designed for deployment across multiple military platforms.
Photonic radar represents a significant advancement in air defence technology, using light-based detection methods rather than conventional radio frequency emissions. This approach offers critical advantages in modern contested airspace where electromagnetic stealth and counter-radar measures are increasingly prevalent.
The multi-platform capability indicates the system is being engineered for integration across air defence assets operated by the Indian Air Force, Army Air Defence, and potentially naval platforms. This approach reduces lifecycle costs and training complexity by standardising radar architecture across service branches.
India’s photonic radar development aligns with the broader indigenisation strategy under the Defence Acquisition Procedure and Make in India initiatives. Domestic mastery of photonic sensing technology reduces operational dependence on foreign suppliers and enables rapid system evolution based on operational feedback from Indian air defence units.
Photonic radars operate on fundamentally different principles compared to conventional phased-array systems. They utilise laser or optical methods to detect and track targets, offering inherent advantages against jamming and electronic warfare techniques. The technology is particularly effective in dense urban and mountainous terrain where traditional radar returns are degraded by ground clutter.
The Indian Air Force operates layered air defence networks including Akash surface-to-air missiles, Igla short-range systems, and towed air defence guns. Integration of indigenous photonic radar into this architecture would strengthen autonomous detection and engagement capabilities without reliance on external surveillance networks.
DRDO’s Bangalore-based Centre for Airborne Systems and Hyderabad-based Research Centre Imarat have been advancing photonic technologies across radar, imaging, and targeting applications for over a decade. The multi-platform radar programme represents convergence of these capabilities into an operationally deployable system.
Testing phases typically include laboratory validation, outdoor range trials, and live platform integration. Successful completion would position this system for rapid induction into air defence squadrons and potentially for export to friendly nations seeking indigenous alternatives to Western radar suppliers.