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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)’s ADA has issued a tender for the supply of an Active Electronically Scanned Array Radar (AESAR), a sophisticated Fire Control Radar (FCR) intended for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) AF Mk2 platform. This tender aligns with India’s ongoing modernization drive for its indigenous defense aviation capabilities, focusing on outfitting the Mk2 variant of the LCA with a next-generation radar system capable of multiple operational modes across diverse mission requirements.

The AESA radar for the LCA AF Mk2 is designed as a modular, multi-functional system comprising three critical subsystems. Active Array Antenna Unit (AAAU), Exciter Receiver Processor (ERP) and Array Power Supply (APS).

The Array Power Supply (APS) developed for the Mk1A variant, with a 5.5 kVA power capacity, will be adapted to meet the specifications of the Mk2 platform. This compatibility aims to streamline production and reduce development time while ensuring the radar operates at optimal power levels to handle its high performance requirements. The APS will integrate seamlessly with the aircraft’s AC power supply, converting it to the necessary DC voltages required by the AAAU for efficient functioning.

ADA will provide vendors with a detailed technical specification document for the APS, covering critical aspects such as available volume, cooling requirements, power characteristics, EM performance, EMI/EMC compliance, lightning protection, and environmental test conditions. ADA will supply the mechanical interface specifications required to align the APS with the Mk2’s structural configuration, ensuring smooth integration. ADA will participate in design modification reviews, facilitating APS adaptability for the Mk2 and supporting any necessary design changes. ADA will assist in the certification process through collaboration with certification agencies CEMILAC (Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification) and DGAQA (Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance) by providing test reports on functional performance and environmental endurance.

ADA will support vendors by providing all relevant technical data and handling security clearance, ensuring a secure and efficient development process.

Alongside the primary AESA radar tender, ADA has issued a separate tender for the supply of radar cable assemblies specific to the AESA radar on the LCA AF Mk2. This critical infrastructure will support the efficient and reliable operation of the radar system, ensuring high-quality data transmission between components for optimum performance.

Multifunctional Capabilities

The AESA radar intended for the LCA AF Mk2 platform will operate across multiple modes to meet the versatile mission requirements of the Indian Air Force. This includes:

Navigation: Supporting enhanced situational awareness and navigation across various terrains.

Air-to-Air: Enabling superior target tracking and long-range air combat capabilities.

Air-to-Ground: Providing precision targeting for ground missions, critical for modern multi-role combat scenarios.

Air-to-Sea: Allowing detection and engagement of naval targets, enhancing the aircraft’s maritime strike potential.

Equipping the LCA AF Mk2 with an advanced AESA radar will significantly enhance the aircraft’s combat capability, enabling it to operate with increased precision and situational awareness across various mission types. AESA technology, a leap forward in radar capabilities, provides advantages in terms of tracking, targeting, and evading enemy radar detection, particularly due to its high scan rate and ability to simultaneously track multiple targets. This integration reflects India’s dedication to self-reliance in defense technology, pushing forward the capabilities of its indigenously developed fighters.

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