The development of an indigenous pulse travelling wave tube (pulse TWT) for the Active Self-Protection Jammer (ASPJ) is the present focus of India’s Technology Development Fund (TDF) program. By improving India’s fighter jets’ resistance to radar threats, this program seeks to strengthen the country’s defences.
The TDF scheme’s main objective is to support domestic defence technology design and development, with a focus on small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and start-ups. This includes initiatives such as the Pulse TWT, which is essential for aviation ASPJ systems.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been given ₹250.12 crore of the Rs 287.4 crore total cost of the 68 projects that the TDF program has approved since its start. A
Through jamming enemy radar systems and increasing survivability during combat operations, the Pulse TWT is intended to increase the efficacy of ASPJ systems, which are essential for electronic warfare.
A specialised electrical component found in radar and electronic warfare systems, such as jammers like the ASPJ, is called a pulse travelling wave tube (Pulse TWT). In order to provide strong signals necessary for efficient radar or jamming operations, it amplifies high-frequency radio signals, especially in pulsed modes. The Pulse TWT is usually incorporated into the transmitter part of an Active Self-Protection Jammer (ASPJ), where it produces the powerful energy bursts required to interfere with adversary radar signals. By interfering with tracking and targeting systems during operations, this helps protect aircraft.
In addition to supporting current platforms, this technology also
India’s dedication to independence in the production of defences is demonstrated by the creation of domestic technologies like the Pulse TWT. India wants to improve its operational capabilities and strategic autonomy in a security environment that is changing quickly by lowering its reliance on foreign technologies.
To sum up, the TDF scheme’s emphasis on creating an indigenous Pulse TWT for ASPJ is a big step in bolstering India’s defensive capabilities and making sure that its fighter jets are capable of successfully fending off contemporary radar threats.
