To choose a Development Cum Production Partner (DcPP) for its state-of-the-art Virupaksha Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, the Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), a division of the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), has formally issued a Request for Proposal (RFP).
This project highlights India’s drive for domestic technological growth and self-reliance in the realm of modern avionics and military hardware, and it is an essential component of the ambitious upgrading program for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) fleet of Su-30MKI fighter aircraft.
Compared to the Su-30MKI’s current Russian-made N011M Bars radar, the Virupaksha AESA radar is a major advancement. Superior detection ranges, improved tracking capabilities, multi-target engagement, increased susceptibility to electronic countermeasures, and increased dependability because they don’t have any moving parts are just a few of the operational benefits that AESA radars provide.
Through the LRDE, the DRDO has been working on this radar to not only satisfy the IAF’s present requirements but also lay the groundwork for an independent airborne radar technology ecosystem.
Through the recruitment of eligible industrial partners as DcPPs, DRDO hopes to capitalize on cooperation with India’s defense industries, both public and private. The chosen DcPP will take part in system integration, testing, and lifecycle support as well as the radar’s future series manufacturing and development. The collaboration aims to provide scalability for large-scale manufacturing, accelerate the radar’s induction, and open the door for future export possibilities.
In keeping with the goals of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India), this RFP release aims to maximize indigenous content and displays DRDO’s ongoing faith in the potential of local industry. The partner will be chosen based on proven proficiency in electronics, radar systems, and platform integration in addition to technical and financial skills.
It is anticipated that the modification effort will greatly increase the combat power of the Su-30MKI platform, keeping it competitive with modern fighters and future-proofing it against changing aerial threats.
This RFP marks the start of a critical phase of the Su-30MKI upgrading program. After being chosen, the DcPP will collaborate closely with DRDO scientists and IAF end users to guarantee that the system satisfies operational needs, emphasizing on-time delivery and upholding the highest standards of dependability and quality.
India’s aerospace and defense industry will reach a significant milestone with the effective deployment of the Virupaksha AESA radar, which represents an outstanding accomplishment in domestic technology development and system integration for frontline fighter aircraft.
