SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
The Indian Army has taken a significant stride in bolstering its battlefield surveillance and transparency capabilities with the induction of the lighter and compact version of the Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) known as SWATHI Mountains. Developed indigenously by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru, this state-of-the-art radar system is specifically designed for operations in mountainous and high-altitude areas, catering to the unique challenges posed by such terrains.
In a remarkable event, Lieutenant General JB Chaudhari, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (CD&S), flagged off the SWATHI WLR in Agra, marking its official inclusion in the Indian Army’s artillery arsenal. This advanced radar system is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing the Army’s battlefield surveillance capabilities, enabling it to effectively monitor and respond to threats in mountainous regions.
The SWATHI WLR is an upgraded version of the earlier variant, which was already in use by the Indian Army. BEL officials confirmed that 30 units of the earlier WLR variant were already deployed with the Army and had demonstrated exceptional performance across the Line of Control (LoC). Based on the impressive track record of its predecessor, the Army requested a lighter and more compact version for deployment in mountainous terrains, where mobility and adaptability are paramount.
The SWATHI WLR mountain version is the result of a collaborative effort between Radar House Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), a premier laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), along with BEL. This joint development project aimed to fulfill the long-felt need of the Indian Army for an advanced radar system optimized for operations in challenging mountain environments.
The induction of SWATHI Mountains is a significant milestone for India’s defense sector, showcasing the nation’s technological prowess and self-reliance in developing cutting-edge defense equipment. The indigenous development of SWATHI reflects India’s commitment to reducing dependence on foreign defense imports and strengthening its indigenous defense capabilities.
The SWATHI WLR is equipped with advanced features that enable it to accurately locate and track enemy artillery and mortar positions, offering real-time intelligence to the Indian Army. With the ability to operate effectively at high altitudes and in rugged mountainous terrains, this radar system will provide a strategic advantage to the Indian forces, enhancing their situational awareness and response capabilities.
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