SOURCE: AFI
In a significant development for India’s defense technology ecosystem, Astra Microwave Products Limited, in collaboration with Rafael Comsys Private Limited, has secured a ?255.88 crore order from the Ministry of Defence. The order, announced on December 13, 2024, involves the procurement of 93 additional sets of Software Defined Radios (SDR) Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) with A kits, SBC 2 cards, and Network-Centric Operations applications for the Indian Air Force’s Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft.
The Su-30 MKI is the backbone of the Indian Air Force (IAF), and this upgrade underscores the emphasis on enhancing its operational capabilities. The SDR systems, central to modern network-centric warfare, will enable seamless communication, data sharing, and operational coordination between fighter aircraft and ground-based command centers. These radios are integral to ensuring secure and reliable connectivity, a critical requirement in contemporary aerial combat scenarios.
The new SDRs, equipped with advanced A kits and SBC 2 cards, will facilitate real-time communication in network-centric operations, allowing the Su-30 MKI to operate more effectively in a modern battlefield environment.
Astra Microwave Products Limited has been a trusted name in India’s defense sector, with expertise in designing, manufacturing, and integrating high-frequency microwave components and systems. Its partnership with Rafael Comsys Private Limited has further strengthened its capabilities in delivering cutting-edge communication systems for the armed forces.
The successful collaboration has resulted in the development of indigenous, state-of-the-art SDR technology, aligning with the government’s “Make in India” initiative and boosting self-reliance in critical defense technology.
The SDR systems are designed to support a wide range of frequencies and waveforms, ensuring compatibility with legacy and future communication standards. They enhance interoperability among various platforms and contribute significantly to situational awareness, a crucial aspect of modern warfare.
The addition of these systems to the Su-30 MKI fleet will enhance the aircraft’s ability to execute complex missions, maintain air superiority, and integrate seamlessly with other assets in joint operations.
This order marks a significant milestone in the modernization of the IAF’s communication infrastructure, further solidifying Astra Microwave’s position as a leading provider of advanced defense solutions. The deployment of these SDR systems will not only boost the combat capabilities of the Su-30 MKI fleet but also serve as a testament to the growing strength of India’s defense manufacturing sector.