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In a significant boost to India's indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, the homegrown Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar has demonstrated performance metrics that are approximately 25% superior to the combat-proven Israeli EL/M-2052 radar.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Uttam radar is slated for integration into the Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), marking a major step towards self-reliance in critical military technology.
A Journey of Indigenous Innovation
The development of the Uttam AESA radar, which began in 2008, has been a long-term strategic project led by DRDO’s Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) in partnership with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).AESA radars represent the pinnacle of modern airborne radar technology, using hundreds of small transmit/receive modules (TRMs) to electronically steer the radar beam, allowing for faster tracking, higher resolution, and the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
The current Mk1 version of the Uttam, designed for the Tejas Mk1A, is equipped with 980 Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)-based TRMs, a substantial increase from earlier prototypes, providing it with enhanced power and operational efficiency.
Proven Performance in Rigorous Trials
The Uttam radar has successfully completed extensive flight testing, with over 125 sorties conducted on Tejas prototype aircraft as of April 2024.These demanding trials have validated its effectiveness in crucial air-to-air and air-to-ground modes. During evaluations, the radar demonstrated its capability by successfully tracking a Tejas-sized fighter jet from a distance of 140 kilometres, confirming its readiness for real-world combat scenarios.
The system's design is also future-proof, with plans for a more powerful Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based Mk2 variant intended for the upcoming Tejas MkII and the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
Outperforming a Formidable Competitor
The benchmark for the Uttam's performance is the highly reliable EL/M-2052 radar, produced by Elta Systems, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries.This Israeli radar is a well-established system used by air forces globally and was selected for the initial batches of the Tejas Mk1A. It can track up to 64 targets and is integrated with advanced weaponry.
However, the Uttam's superior architecture and higher TRM count give it a decisive edge. Independent assessments confirm that the Uttam can track over 100 targets simultaneously and engage up to six with active radar-homing missiles.
Furthermore, its advanced ultra-low sidelobe antenna makes it more resistant to electronic jamming, a critical advantage in modern warfare.
Head-to-Head Radar Comparison
| Feature | DRDO Uttam AESA | IAI Elta EL/M-2052 |
|---|---|---|
| TRM Count | 980 | ~900 (for Tejas) |
| Detection Range | >100 km (up to 140 km confirmed) | ~100 km |
| Target Tracking | 100+ targets simultaneously | 64 targets |
| Technology | GaAs (GaN upgrade planned) | GaAs |
| Indigenous Content | 100% | Imported (with Transfer of Technology) |
| Key Advantage | 25% better overall performance | Proven reliability and integration |
A Pragmatic Path to Self-Reliance
Despite the Uttam's proven superiority, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has equipped the first 83 Tejas Mk1A jets with the Israeli EL/M-2052 radar.This decision was made to meet the Indian Air Force's urgent delivery timelines and avoid potential delays associated with the certification and integration of a new indigenous system. The first Tejas Mk1A aircraft are expected to roll out soon, with the Israeli radar ensuring immediate operational capability.
However, the successful development and testing of the Uttam radar have cleared the path for its integration into subsequent batches of the Tejas Mk1A.
This achievement not only reduces India's dependence on foreign suppliers for critical defence technologies but also positions the nation among an elite group of countries, including the US, Israel, and China, capable of producing advanced AESA radar systems for modern fighter aircraft.
