SOURCE: AFI
India’s defence capabilities are poised for a significant leap forward with the development of its 13-ton Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) stealth bomber. Among its advanced features, the aircraft will incorporate a Digital Beamforming (DBF) system, a cutting-edge technology that enhances the effectiveness and precision of radar and communication systems. This inclusion underscores India’s focus on equipping its next-generation stealth platform with state-of-the-art capabilities to ensure operational superiority.
Digital Beamforming (DBF) is an advanced signal processing technique used in radar, communication, and electronic warfare systems. It enables the precise shaping, steering, and focusing of radar or communication signals electronically, without the need for mechanically moving antennas.
Unlike traditional systems that rely on fixed or mechanically steered antenna arrays, DBF allows for real-time control over the direction and shape of multiple beams simultaneously, offering significant advantages in terms of flexibility, efficiency, and accuracy.
By digitally steering the beam of radar signals without physically moving the antenna, DBF provides rapid scanning, high resolution, and the ability to track multiple targets simultaneously. The ability to focus radar signals in specific directions reduces the radar cross-section of the UCAV, enhancing its stealth capabilities by minimizing detection from enemy radars.
The DBF system can be used for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging, providing high-resolution images of the ground for intelligence gathering. This is crucial for identifying targets or assessing damage post-strike. The UCAV’s radar, enhanced by DBF, can lock onto and track targets with high accuracy even at long ranges. This includes slow-moving or stationary targets, which are often difficult to detect with conventional radars. By controlling the directionality of radar emissions, DBF helps in maintaining the UCAV’s low-observable attributes, reducing the chances of detection by enemy forces. This is pivotal for operations deep within contested territories.
The precision control over electromagnetic emissions allows the Ghatak to conduct sophisticated electronic warfare operations. It can jam enemy radars or communications selectively, protecting itself or other friendly units from detection or attack. With DBF, the UCAV can switch between different radar modes (like ground mapping, air-to-air combat, or maritime surveillance) seamlessly, making it a versatile asset for various mission profiles.
Incorporating DBF into the Ghatak UCAV not only boosts its operational effectiveness but also marks a significant step in India’s journey towards self-reliance in high-tech military equipment. It showcases India’s capability to integrate cutting-edge technology into its indigenous defence projects, reducing dependence on foreign systems and potentially opening avenues for export.