Source : IgMp Bureau
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the verge of a significant technological leap with the impending deployment of the indigenously developed Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Fire Control Radar (FCR) on its fighter jets. The Uttam AESA radar, crafted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), has successfully completed the majority of its pre-production flight trials, clearing the path for potential production approval later this year.
The Uttam AESA radar has undergone meticulous testing, showcasing its prowess in various flight modes, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground operations, and weather and terrain avoidance/following. This rigorous testing regime has validated the radar’s effectiveness across a wide array of operational scenarios.
Uttam radar integrated in LCA TejasAn LCA Tejas Mk1 prototype with Uttam AESA radar integrated on its nose cone, displayed at Defence Expo (File Photo)
Destined to be a cornerstone of India’s next-generation fighter jets, the Uttam AESA radar is set to be integrated into the Tejas Mk2 prototypes, elevating their combat capabilities to new heights. Furthermore, an upgraded variant of the radar is in the works for flight trials as part of the Su-30MKI Upgrade Program, thereby expanding its utility within the IAF’s aircraft fleet.
While the initial 40 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets will be equipped with the Israeli ELTA’s ELM-2052 AESA radar, the Uttam AESA radar is poised to become the standard radar for future batches. This transition underscores India’s increasing self-reliance in critical defence technologies, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers and bolstering its strategic independence.
The impending production approval for the Uttam AESA radar represents a significant milestone in India’s defence technology evolution. Outfitting advanced fighter jets with this indigenous radar will not only augment the IAF’s operational capabilities but also underscore India’s growing prowess in cutting-edge defence technologies.
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