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India has achieved a significant advancement in its indigenous defence technology capabilities as the upgraded Uttam Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, designed for the Tejas Mk2 fighter jet, has officially commenced production.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), through its Bengaluru-based Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), has announced that the radar systems are slated for delivery before the initial prototype of the Tejas Mk2 is unveiled, which is anticipated in late October or early November 2025.
This development highlights India's expanding proficiency in sophisticated avionics and its dedication to supplying the Indian Air Force (IAF) with advanced, domestically produced systems.
The new Uttam radar represents a notable progression from the earlier Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)-based Uttam radar. A key feature of this upgraded GaN version is its incorporation of over 900 Transmit/Receive (T/R) modules.
This configuration is accommodated by the Tejas Mk2's larger nose cone, which allows for more T/R elements compared to some earlier designs, thereby enhancing the radar's detection range, precision in tracking, and its ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously.
For context, a previous variant, the Uttam Mk1, was equipped with 912 T/R modules. The foundational GaAs-based Uttam radar has already undergone successful evaluations on the Tejas Mk1 Limited Series Production (LSP) aircraft, completing 125 developmental flights by April 2024, proving its operational reliability across air-to-air, air-to-ground, and air-to-sea operational modes.
AESA radars, like the Uttam, are critical for modern air warfare, providing superior performance over traditional mechanically scanned radars by allowing the radar beam to be steered electronically, offering faster scanning speeds and the ability to perform multiple functions concurrently.
The shift to Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology signifies a substantial technological leap for India's aerospace and defence sector.
GaN components generally offer superior power efficiency, better thermal management, and enhanced robustness against electronic warfare tactics when compared to the previous Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) technology.
These advantages are expected to extend the Uttam radar’s detection capabilities by an estimated 20-25% and improve its operational effectiveness in challenging electromagnetic environments.
With its array of over 900 T/R modules, the GaN-based Uttam radar is projected to identify fighter-sized aerial targets at distances exceeding 150 kilometres, concurrently track numerous targets, and engage several threats at once.
Such capabilities are crucial for aligning the Tejas Mk2 with the operational standards of contemporary fourth-generation fighter aircraft globally.
In line with India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, the DRDO issued production orders for the upgraded Uttam radar to a private sector firm, Astra Microwave Products Ltd., in March 2025. The manufacturing schedule is synchronized with the Tejas Mk2’s overall development plan.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is preparing for the rollout of the first Tejas Mk2 prototype by late October or early November 2025, with its inaugural flight anticipated in early 2026.
This indigenous radar system is a critical component for the Tejas Mk2, enhancing its combat effectiveness and sensory capabilities.
