Virupaksha Radar with Astra MkIII to Transform Su-30MKI into Potent Stealth Fighter Hunter, Tracking and Engaging China-Pak Jets at Extended Ranges

The Indian Air Force's (IAF) Su-30MKI fighter jets are set for a significant capability enhancement with the integration of the advanced Virupaksha radar.

This indigenous Gallium Nitride (GaN) based Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar is specifically engineered to detect and track stealth aircraft from considerable distances.

This upgrade will position the Su-30MKI as India's first 4.5-generation fighter optimised for countering low-observable aircraft, bolstering its effectiveness in contemporary aerial combat scenarios increasingly defined by stealth technology.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), the Virupaksha radar marks a substantial improvement over the Su-30MKI's current N011M Bars passive electronically scanned array (PESA) radar.

The Virupaksha features an antenna diameter of 950 mm and is equipped with approximately 2,500 GaN-based Transmit/Receive Modules (TRMs). This configuration delivers superior performance in detection range, target resolution, and resilience against electronic jamming.

GaN technology itself offers greater power efficiency, improved heat management, and enhanced reliability compared to older Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) systems, contributing to a more compact, lighter, and powerful radar system.

The Virupaksha radar system demonstrates impressive detection capabilities, reportedly able to identify a target with a 1m² radar cross-section (RCS) from as far as 600 kilometres.

Crucially, for highly stealthy aircraft with a very small RCS of 0.01m², the radar is estimated to achieve detection at around 200 kilometres. This range effectively brings stealth aircraft into the engagement zone of Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, transforming Su-30MKIs equipped with Virupaksha into formidable hunters of stealth jets.

A primary design focus of the Virupaksha radar is its capacity to detect low-observable aircraft, such as China's J-20 fighter or the J-35A, which could potentially be operated by the Pakistan Air Force.

Stealth aircraft are characterized by an RCS as low as 0.01 m², making them challenging for conventional radars to identify. The Virupaksha’s GaN-AESA technology, along with its high number of TRMs, significantly boosts its sensitivity to these low-RCS targets, allowing for detection at strategically important distances.

The use of GaN semiconductors in the Virupaksha radar also leads to higher resolution imagery, reduced electricity consumption, and better thermal efficiency when compared to earlier AESA systems.

Optimised for tracking multiple targets simultaneously, resisting enemy electronic warfare efforts, and engaging in long-range air-to-air combat, the Virupaksha system will substantially improve the situational awareness and combat effectiveness of the Su-30MKI fleet.

When paired with the upcoming Astra MkIII missile, which boasts a range of 300–350 kilometres, the Su-30MKI equipped with the Virupaksha radar could become the first non-stealth aircraft specifically optimised to engage stealth aircraft from BVR distances.

The combination of the radar's extended detection capabilities and the long reach of the Astra MkIII missile system offers a credible counter to advanced low-RCS threats like the J-35A.

This modernisation is part of the broader "Super-30" upgrade programme, an initiative valued at approximately ₹65,000 crore (around $7.8 billion USD). The programme aims to upgrade 84 of the IAF's 260 Su-30MKI aircraft, with work scheduled to commence in 2026.

Beyond the Virupaksha radar, the upgrade package includes a new digital cockpit, advanced infrared search and track (IRST) systems, and indigenous weapons like the Astra MkIII (also known as Gandiva) missile.

These enhancements will collectively elevate the Su-30MKI to a 4.5+ generation combat platform. The Astra MkIII, featuring solid fuel ducted ramjet propulsion, is designed to complement the radar's long-range detection, creating a highly effective BVR combat solution.

Furthermore, the Virupaksha radar incorporates a swashplate mechanism, enhancing its field of regard. This allows the upgraded Su-30MKI to function akin to a "mini-AWACS" (Airborne Warning and Control System), providing extended surveillance and targeting information.

This capability positions the aircraft to effectively counter regional air threats, notably from platforms like China’s J-20 and Pakistan’s potential J-35A, by detecting and engaging them before their stealth features can be fully exploited.

An IAF official highlighted that the Virupaksha and Astra MkIII combination could act as a significant deterrent, as the radar's X-band frequency's ability to penetrate some stealth characteristics and track low-RCS targets diminishes the operational advantages of opposing stealth aircraft.

In the competitive landscape, Data Patterns unveiled its Hawk I 2700 at Aero India 2025. This is another GaN-based AESA radar featuring 2,700 TRMs, with the company claiming a detection range of 350 km for a 5 m² RCS target and 200 km for a 1 m² RCS target.

While the Hawk I 2700 has a slightly higher TRM count, the Virupaksha radar benefits from a "plug and play" design. This allows for more straightforward integration into the Su-30MKI’s existing nose cone and systems, offering an advantage in terms of retrofit efficiency.

The IAF is currently evaluating both radar systems. The Virupaksha radar is supported by DRDO’s established development and production partnerships with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

 

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[Hawkeye]

But what will we do about its huge RCS? China can absolutely smash these with its PL-15 from 200+ km away using its 5th and 6th Gen Jets. Maybe their only job will be firing BrahMos from standoff ranges!

Super-30 will have frontal stealth, which is enough for standoff missile firing; it will be as good as a 5th gen jet.

 

[Sambit Ranjan]

What is the NEZ of the PL-15? Chinese weapons' bloated claims have been uncovered already.

How can you uncover them, as they were not used against India? China had provided Pakistan its third-class downgraded export version, i.e., PL-15E and downgraded HQ-9P. China will never provide its state-of-the-art weapons to a beggar like Pakistan, who will sell them to the USA for money.

 

[Parveen Gahlot]

Virupaksha and Gandiv will be a deadly combination, but they need to upgrade their engine as well with AL-51 or Izdeliye-30 engine for the Super Sukhoi programme.

 

[Sambit Ranjan]

No BVR can hit a fighter aircraft like the Su-30 from 200 km away. Pakis tried that with AIM-120 but failed. What is the No Escape Zone of PL-15?

There's a huge technical difference between AIM-120 and PL-15. PL-15 has the advantage of double the range, faster speed with a dual pulse motor, and not to forget, PL-15 has its own AESA seeker (that's not even present in Meteor). Note: I am talking about the original PL-15, not the third-class downgraded PL-15E export version that was given to Pakistan as a donation.

 

[Torontodude]

Super-30 upgrade includes MAWS called DC-MAWS - Dual Color Missile Approach Warning System sensor. The DC-MAWS operates in the mid-infrared (IR) spectrum and uses two IR bands to differentiate missile threats from other sources like sunlight or background radiation.

AFAIK, Sukhoi Corp did not approve the DC MAWS, and they will therefore not certify the MKIs.

 

[Kaness1]

The 'Shkhois' should be upgraded on a fast track, but the main thing is testing the weapons. It should be tested soon against Pakistani J-10 and J-35 immediately after it's ready, so that its pros and cons can be evaluated and necessary modifications done to improve it. Pakistan providing support to terrorists is a great chance for India to test all its Indian-made weapons against them.

 

[Hawkeye]

AFAIK, Sukhoi Corp did not approve the DC MAWS, and they will therefore not certify the MKIs.

Sukhoi won't disapprove anything; they are HAL’s closest pals. They will let HAL do anything, unlike France, who disapproves of making any changes to even their 60-year vintage platform Mirage.

 

[Bks98]

J-20 and J-35 are not truly fifth-generation fighter jets. Chinese products completely failed and were exposed in the India-Pakistan war.

 

[Torontodude]

Sukhoi won't disapprove anything; they are HAL’s closest pals. They will let HAL do anything, unlike France, who disapproves of making any changes to even their 60-year vintage platform Mirage.

That's your opinion. What I stated is fact as reported elsewhere, because the DC MAWS is heavy and disturbs the flight characteristics. With Sukhoi certification, IAF will not go ahead.

Besides, on Mirage/Rafale - you are incorrect. It is not that France does not permit. Modification permission is based on the agreement that GOI signed with Rafale. If the agreement does not permit, France will not allow. MoD and Ministry of Law need to be challenged on why they signed such an agreement.

 

[Hawkeye]

That's your opinion. What I stated is fact as reported elsewhere, because the DC MAWS is heavy and disturbs the flight characteristics. With Sukhoi certification, IAF will not go ahead.

Besides, on Mirage/Rafale - you are incorrect. It is not that France does not permit. Modification permission is based on the agreement that GOI signed with Rafale. If the agreement does not permit, France will not allow. MoD and Ministry of Law need to be challenged on why they signed such an agreement.

It is just a combination of data processing unit installed internally inside the cockpit with six sensor pods installed around the jet. It’s the size of fog lights in a car. I don’t understand what is heavy.

 

[Torontodude]

It is just a combination of data processing unit installed internally inside the cockpit with six sensor pods installed around the jet. It’s the size of fog lights in a car. I don’t understand what is heavy.

The issue is the six sensor pods to be imported from Elbit. These were too heavy, and subsequently, Irkut Corp denied certifying the MKI. As a result of which, the project was shelved. There was a proposal to install four instead of six, but that was too limiting and also dropped.

 

[prpr]

Wow, that's nice. I was always saying it would have a swashplate, but some cartoon fools were not ready to accept it. With GANDIV BVR, Virupaksha GaN-based Radar will give nightmares to stealth fighter jets. Second, with the combo of Super Sukhoi with Tejas MK1A, it will have a stealth-like mission. With the Tejas MK1A, the combination of Super Sukhoi GaN-based AESA Radar can perform strike missions. Tejas MK1A, being smaller in RCS plus the use of composite material, will be a deadly combo with Super Sukhoi. With the integration of indigenously developed GaN-based AESA Radar by DRDO, Super Sukhoi will be ahead of Rafale in sensors and weapons.

Don't believe there article, nothing of this sort means virupaksha radar is in making ,it's only mungeri lal ke haseen sapne,indian company that too DRDO will be making a GaN based radars with a mammoth 2300 Tr is a fantasy story only which we are hearing for last 10 years 😂😂

 

[Gaon ke chhoro]

How can you uncover them, as they were not used against India? China had provided Pakistan its third-class downgraded export version, i.e., PL-15E and downgraded HQ-9P. China will never provide its state-of-the-art weapons to a beggar like Pakistan, who will sell them to the USA for money.

Well, yes and no. PL15E, yes but they are 3rd class and all is a flight of fancy. No one in the world creates two entirely different systems under the same name and marks one for export and the other for self. Typically most export variants of these missiles have their range capped, more so when the client is restricted under MTCR. Other than that a few more restrictions go in as software limitations and on some very rare occasions a few missing hardware pieces to keep the cost down (like type of detection and identification systems incorporated). Otherwise they are very much the same.

You think so many countries are chasing for the data uncovered from the study of these failed PL15E missiles just for fun? Already japan has become the first such approved recipient. All these countries will now know what any PL15, E or otherwise, comprises of and then design their counter system to handle the PL15 type missiles.

 

[Gaon ke chhoro]

But what will we do about its huge RCS? China can absolutely smash these with its PL-15 from 200+ km away using its 5th and 6th Gen Jets. Maybe their only job will be firing BrahMos from standoff ranges!

Think of it this way... A missile claiming 200 kms range is only talking about its max range under defined conditions of altitude and speed of the delivery platform. So that itself may differ based on the scenario. Now, the actual NEZ which is way more important is often way lesser. Pakis tried firing many of their long ranger BVRAAMs from their max ranges in order to escape our AADs. That's why so many duds were witnessed from their side.

Now we are talking about firing these things possibly at a 150 or even closer targets to be successful. If a Virupaksha has already detected you at 200 or more kilometers distance and it's Astra III is charging at you like a mad bull your game is already over. Forget reaching that 150 kilometres distance to fire your missile. Game gets even more interesting when you realize that unless you are a top notch stealth aircraft your RCS is probably even bigger. So if one of the airborne Virupakshas has already detected you and started tracking at close to 600 kilometres distance you possibly will never even learn about what hit you once you are in Gandiva's kill zone.

Don't worry... The Indian "missile truck" is getting very potent armor to make it a furious skybolt. Only in its name and shape will it be a Su30.

 

[Loki 20]

Virupaksha radar along with gandiva missile will be a beast combo.

 

[Andy13]

But what will we do about its huge RCS? China can absolutely smash these with its PL-15 from 200+ km away using its 5th and 6th Gen Jets. Maybe their only job will be firing BrahMos from standoff ranges!

We are defending so in our own backyard. Plus we were visible anyways. Now they are too. For penetrating enemy airbase, we will use Cats warrior and 5th gen ucavs till Amca comes in the pic or we decide to buy something.