DRDO Finalizes Uttam AESA Radar for Tejas Mk1A with 980+ TR Modules to Enhance Range, Resolution, and Tracking Capabilities

In a major boost to India's indigenous defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has finalized the configuration of the Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar for the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet. This advanced radar, developed in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), will be integrated into the Tejas Mk1A fleet starting from the 51st aircraft.

The finalized Uttam AESA radar boasts a significant upgrade in the number of transmitter-receiver (TR) modules, increasing from the initial 720 to over 980. This enhancement translates to a substantial leap in the radar's performance, providing the Tejas Mk1A with extended range, improved resolution, and superior multi-target tracking capabilities.

TR modules are fundamental components of an AESA radar, determining its ability to detect and engage multiple targets simultaneously. By increasing the TR module count, the Uttam radar offers enhanced situational awareness and greater combat effectiveness in complex scenarios. This upgrade aligns with the Indian Air Force's (IAF) emphasis on advanced avionics for its fighter aircraft, particularly for fourth and fifth-generation platforms.

With the radar's configuration finalized, BEL has commenced production of the Uttam AESA Fire Control Radar (FCR) specifically designed for the Tejas Mk1A. This variant has undergone rigorous testing to ensure seamless integration with the aircraft's avionics and mission systems. The successful integration of the Uttam AESA radar is a significant step towards self-reliance in advanced avionics technology, reducing dependence on imported radar systems.

The Uttam AESA radar's indigenous design offers several advantages, including simplified maintenance, easier upgrades, and the flexibility to incorporate operational feedback from the IAF. This adaptability ensures the radar's long-term viability and its ability to evolve with changing mission requirements.

Beyond the Tejas Mk1A, a modified version of the Uttam AESA radar is also slated for integration into the Tejas MkII, India's next-generation fighter aircraft. The MkII, designed to replace aging aircraft in the IAF's fleet, will leverage the Uttam radar's advanced capabilities and enhanced TR module count to fulfill its expanded mission profile.

 

[sanket]

Good News From 51st Tejas MK1A and IAF likely to place Follow-on 97 Tejas MK1A order too With 980 TRM r better than Rafale TRM

 

[GMR]

Now no. has reached 51for Uttam integration?? After 1 year, they will say 84th MK1A will get Uttam 😅😅

 

[kurtwallis wallis]

when GaN AESA Uttam radar is ready for next batch MK1A jets...?

 

[Steel Mathi]

First they said it was the 41st Tejas Mk1a, now they say it is the 51st Tejas Mk1a.

 

[Andy13]

With all the engine delays, they are still lagging behind...

 

[PARASHURAM]

It's a good news. Finally we got radar. Next Engine issue should be resolved.

 

[Arjun]

First they said it was the 41st Tejas Mk1a, now they say it is the 51st Tejas Mk1a.

I think It was 41st when it was said to be integrated with 750 TRM GaAs radar.. now its has been upgraded to 950 TRM GaN radar.. which is the same radar which would go on Tejas mk2..

 

[Prit]

I think It was 41st when it was said to be integrated with 750 TRM GaAs radar.. now its has been upgraded to 950 TRM GaN radar.. which is the same radar which would go on Tejas mk2..

Mk1A has GaAs radar, Mk2 seems to have GaN.

 

[tipoo2]

So they're going from ordering 40 to 50 of the Elta radars?

I wonder what an extra mere 10 units did to the per unit cost. Yet another silent delay. This is why I can't really believe we'll have a full AMCA MK1 squadron before 2040.

 

[Prit]

So they're going from ordering 40 to 50 of the Elta radars?

I wonder what an extra mere 10 units did to the per unit cost. Yet another silent delay. This is why I can't really believe we'll have a full AMCA MK1 squadron before 2040.

This article is copied from IDRW and they could have made mistake, simply written 41 as 51. Let's wait for official news.

 

[sky-high]

I think It was 41st when it was said to be integrated with 750 TRM GaAs radar.. now its has been upgraded to 950 TRM GaN radar.. which is the same radar which would go on Tejas mk2..

No, GaN is only for Mk2, because you need the higher power from 414 engines to drive the GaN T/R power needs.

 

[sky-high]

when GaN AESA Uttam radar is ready for next batch MK1A jets...?

Nope.. only for Mk2. or any platform that integrates with GE 414.

 

[ankitksinghal]

Ghuiyaa Chunkandar, By when HAL is giving even single Tejas MK1?, If India's relationship with America further deteriorate then what will be the future of tejas. World geopolitical equations changing very fast...

 

[Vivek M. R]

If the GaN based radar can be fabricated to suit Tejas mk 1A they should go for the last squadron. Hope GE 404 issue will be sorted out after the US presidential elections. But I am surprised why it took so much time to get an answer that South Korea was manufacturing one key component and they had ordered required number of ckd kits of GE 404 in advance and LM was their consultant. Inspite of this India was trying for export. As a lay person these things defy my Logic, there is much more than what we see on media.

 

[bonito]

Very bad. They first said 22nd jet, then 41st now 51st jet integration.