SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended the bid deadline for its procurement of three Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) special mission aircraft until August. This procurement is a critical step in enhancing the IAF’s capability to acquire and disseminate actionable intelligence in real time.
The ISTAR system is designed to provide accurate, actionable intelligence through the use of advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Electro Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors. These sensors are crucial for monitoring and reconnaissance activities, offering high-resolution imagery and data even in challenging conditions. The information gathered is then disseminated via SATCOM, Wideband Line of Sight (LoS), and Operational Data Links (ODL), ensuring swift communication and coordination.
The mission cycle of the ISTAR system begins with the insertion of prioritized intelligence requests into the mission planning workstation. The cycle culminates with an intelligence report from the mission commander, who responds to the request in real time after conducting onboard analysis. This streamlined process ensures that intelligence requests are handled efficiently and effectively, providing critical support to operational decisions.
The procurement includes three ISTAR systems, which consist of the aircraft, onboard payloads, and the associated ground segment. The IAF plans to follow the procurement timelines as outlined in Appendix L to Chapter 2 of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020. The delivery of the ISTAR systems, along with the associated ground segment, will adhere to the agreed-upon timelines, with an expected delivery window of 60 months from the signing of the contract.
The ISTAR procurement is a significant development in the IAF’s modernization efforts, aimed at bolstering its intelligence capabilities. By integrating cutting-edge technology and systems, the IAF seeks to enhance its situational awareness, operational readiness, and overall effectiveness in diverse mission scenarios.