The Lab Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), a key wing of the DRDO, is spearheading the development of a cutting-edge Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) for the much-anticipated Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This strategic move aligns the AMCA with the global trend of fifth-generation fighter aircraft, emphasizing stealth and heightened operational capabilities.
EOTS are passive sensors that revolutionize target acquisition and engagement without compromising the aircraft's invisibility to enemy radar. Unlike conventional radar systems, EOTS do not emit detectable signals, making them a critical asset for maintaining stealth in the modern battlespace. Their adoption in prominent fighter jets such as the F-35 Lightning II, China’s J-20, and Turkey’s Kaan underscores their growing significance in aerial warfare.
IRDE's EOTS innovation centers around a conformal dome, ingeniously crafted from segmented sapphire windows. This design minimizes aerodynamic drag and radar cross-section (RCS), vital for preserving the AMCA's low-observable profile. The dome's multiple flat sapphire segments are meticulously joined using specialized adhesives to create a hermetically sealed chamber, safeguarding the electro-optical components housed within a two-axis gimbal. This sophisticated construction enables high-resolution imaging and ensures operational resilience even at supersonic speeds.
While the F-35 and J-20 rely on EOTS, other fifth-generation fighters have adopted different strategies. The F-22 Raptor notably lacks an EOTS, while Russia’s Su-57 employs Infrared Search and Track (IRST) systems. Although IRST effectively detects infrared signatures, they typically possess a larger RCS, potentially compromising stealth. This highlights the delicate balance between stealth and detection capabilities in modern fighter design.
Initial AMCA models showcased at Aero India and defence expos did not feature an electro-optical system. However, these recent developments strongly suggest the potential integration of EOTS, further aligning the AMCA with international benchmarks for fifth-generation fighters. The final decision on whether this advanced system will be included in the initial AMCA variant or reserved for future upgrades is yet to be announced.
