The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a major technological milestone by successfully developing India’s first indigenous photonic radar, a next-generation system that leverages light-based (photonic) technology for signal generation and processing. This innovation is poised to revolutionize stealth detection and transform both defense and civilian applications in India.
Unlike conventional radar systems that rely on radio frequency (RF) signals, photonic radar uses light waves typically in the infrared or optical spectrum to generate, transmit, and process signals. This approach enables:
Ultra-high resolution: Capable of detecting objects as small as 3 x 4 cm, with imaging resolution down to 1.3 cm.
Superior stealth detection: Able to identify low-observable targets such as stealth aircraft and drones, which often evade traditional radars.
Immunity to electronic jamming: Optical frequencies are far more resistant to modern electronic countermeasures, making the radar highly reliable in contested environments.
Faster data processing: Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) enable rapid signal processing with minimal energy loss, increasing efficiency and clarity.
The radar operates with an impressive 11 GHz bandwidth centered at 34 GHz, while its electronic modules function at much lower frequencies (40–80 MHz), simplifying system architecture and reducing costs. In practical demonstrations, the radar has successfully imaged moving targets, including commercial drones and even the rotation of their blades tasks that challenge conventional radar systems.
The use of photonic components enables a smaller, lighter system suitable for deployment on aircraft, ground vehicles, and potentially even mobile platforms. DRDO plans to integrate the radar with platforms such as Su-30 MKI, Rafale, and Tejas fighters, as well as ground-based air defense networks like Akashteer.
The photonic radar is now set to undergo comprehensive trials starting late 2025, covering diverse scenarios such as high-altitude operations, coastal surveillance, and electronic warfare environments. These trials are crucial for validating the system’s performance and ensuring seamless integration with India’s existing air defense infrastructure.