SOURCE: AFI
India’s indigenous defense capabilities are set to receive a significant boost with the upcoming Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2, which will be equipped with two cutting-edge sensors designed to detect threats and deploy countermeasures autonomously.
A scientist from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) revealed that the new sensors—namely the Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and the Infrared Search and Track System (IRST)—are being developed by the Instruments Research and Development Establishment (IRDE) in Dehradun, a key laboratory under the DRDO umbrella. These advancements underscore India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology and its commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of its air force.
According to Kumar, a scientist at DRDO, the LCA Mk2 will incorporate two electro-optical sensors: the Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and the Infrared Search and Track System (IRST). These systems are designed to provide comprehensive situational awareness and protection against a wide range of airborne threats, marking a significant upgrade over the existing LCA Mk1 and Mk1A variants.
The MAWS is an advanced sensor system that provides spherical coverage around the aircraft, enabling autonomous detection, tracking, and cue generation for approaching missiles. This system is critical for defending the aircraft against missile threats, such as surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and air-to-air missiles (AAMs), which pose significant risks in modern aerial combat. By offering 360-degree coverage, the MAWS ensures that the LCA Mk2 can detect missile launches from any direction and initiate countermeasures, such as chaff or flares, without relying solely on pilot intervention. This enhances the aircraft’s survivability in hostile environments.
The IRST is a passive infrared sensor designed to detect and track airborne threats, such as enemy aircraft, drones, or missiles, by analyzing the infrared (IR) energy and radiation they emit. Unlike traditional radars, which emit radio waves to detect targets and can thus reveal the aircraft’s position, the IRST operates passively, making it a stealthier alternative. This passive radar capability allows the LCA Mk2 to maintain a low electronic signature while still generating precise target data for countermeasures or weapon systems. Kumar emphasized that the IRST enhances situational awareness by providing a detailed picture of the aircraft’s surroundings, enabling pilots to respond effectively to threats.
Both the MAWS and IRST are electro-optical sensors, meaning they rely on light-based technologies (visible and infrared spectra) rather than radio frequency emissions.
Kumar highlighted that the IRST serves as a substitute for traditional radars in certain scenarios. While active radars remain essential for long-range detection and targeting, the IRST’s passive operation makes it ideal for situations where stealth is a priority or when enemy electronic countermeasures (ECM) could jam radar signals. By integrating both systems, the LCA Mk2 achieves a balance between active and passive detection capabilities.
The successful integration of these sensors into the LCA Mk2 will mark a significant milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with the government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiatives. By developing these systems domestically, India reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthens its technological sovereignty.
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