In a significant boost to India's maritime defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed advanced Electronic Support Measures (ESM) modules for the Indian Navy's Dornier Do-228 maritime patrol aircraft. This achievement, under the ambit of Project SHYEN S-22, marks a crucial step towards self-reliance in critical defence technologies.
Electronic Support Measures are vital in modern naval warfare, enabling the detection, identification, and location of potential threats by analyzing electromagnetic emissions like radar signals. By developing these ESM modules indigenously, India strengthens its electronic warfare capabilities and reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers.
The DRDO's Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) spearheaded the project, tailoring the ESM technology to meet the specific operational needs of the Indian Navy. These modules seamlessly integrate with the existing systems of the Do-228, a versatile twin-engine aircraft widely used by the Navy for surveillance and patrol missions.
The advanced ESM modules boast key features such as wide-band signal detection, precise identification and classification of emitters, and real-time threat alerts. This capability allows the Navy to effectively monitor its vast maritime territories, including crucial chokepoints and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
This development aligns with India's broader strategy to bolster its indigenous defence industry and reduce reliance on imports for critical military technology. The successful integration of these ESM modules is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy's operational readiness and its ability to safeguard national maritime interests.
