The Indian Navy is taking a significant step towards enhancing the survivability of its aircraft on the ground by investing in the development of a Radar Obscurant Cloak.
This initiative, launched under the iDEX DISC (Defence India Startup Challenge) 13 program, aims to create a protective shield that renders aircraft virtually invisible to enemy radar.
In modern warfare, airbases and grounded aircraft are prime targets for enemy strikes. This new technology seeks to mitigate this threat by minimizing the radar signature of parked aircraft, making them extremely difficult to detect. The cloak is designed as a roll-on roll-off system, allowing for quick and easy deployment and removal without disrupting operational activities.
The benefits of this technology are multifaceted. By reducing the vulnerability of aircraft to attacks, it enhances the overall operational readiness and longevity of these valuable assets. It also allows for more dynamic base operations, enabling aircraft to be stationed closer to contested areas without compromising their safety.
Furthermore, the ability to conceal aircraft strength can serve as a deterrent, adding an element of uncertainty to an adversary's strategic calculations.
The Indian Navy has outlined specific design requirements for the Radar Obscurant Cloak. It should be lightweight and durable, ensuring ease of use and longevity. The current focus is on developing cloaks for small and medium-sized aircraft, with scalability to larger aircraft in mind.
The cloak will incorporate a specialized support structure designed to disperse or absorb radar waves, further enhancing its effectiveness.
By investing in this innovative radar obscurant technology, the Navy aims to significantly improve the protection of its air assets, ensuring their survivability and operational effectiveness in an increasingly complex and challenging security environment.
