Why do radars matter more than ever and why it matters that India is building its own?

In any modern conflict, what you see and how you see it often matters more than how many missiles you have. The world’s best defence systems are not just made of fighter jets and artillery—they’re made of the ability to track, detect and respond in real time.

When it comes to indigenisation, India is progressing steadily, reducing its reliance on imported critical tech. Our focus on developing homegrown radar systems is a part of a larger plan to build a self-sufficient defence ecosystem.

Here’s a look at three indigenous systems—built in India, for India—that are quietly reshaping how we defend our skies, borders and airspace

Akashteer: The automated air defence brain

Akashteer is India’s fully indigenous, automated Air Defence Control and Reporting System, designed to detect and neutralise aerial threats in real time.¹ It leverages AI and advanced data fusion algorithms to automate tracking, assess threats and recommend responses. Designed to operate across different platforms and terrains, it enhances commanders’ situational awareness, providing a comprehensive 360-degree view for informed decision-making. Built by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) support, it is designed for today’s fast moving threats.
Swathi: The counter-artillery specialist

The Swathi Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) is a sophisticated radar system that can detect enemy fire—mortars, rockets and artillery—from up to 50 km away.² But, more importantly, it doesn’t just track the projectile. It tells us exactly where it came from.

With the system being 85 per cent indigenous, it relies heavily on our domestic supply chains, which gives a much needed boost to our local production and MSMEs.³
Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA): A leap forward in indigenous avionics technology

95 per cent indigenous, Uttam AESA is one of the most advanced radars that India has built for its aircrafts.⁴ Multi-target tracking, electronic warfare resistance and precise target guidance—all packed into a compact system—this gives our jets more control in the skies.

What does this all mean?

This is more than just strengthening our defence sector. It’s a win for technology, for strategic autonomy and India’s long-term future as a builder, not just a buyer.

We are moving from licensed production to original innovation

From dependence to design

^[1] Akashteer: The unseen force behind India’s new war capability, PIB, 16 May 2025, accessed on 27 May 2025

^[2] Indigenously developed ground-based radars have yielded good results, but greater private sector participation needed, ForceIndia, accessed on 23 May 2025

^[3] BEL delivers weapon locating radar SWATHI To Indian Army ahead of schedule, India Defence News, 5 March 2025, accessed on 23 May 2025

^[4] DRDO to unveil scale model of Uttam AESA radar for Tejas MkI and MkII at Aero India 2025, Indian Defence Research Wing, 10 January 2025, accessed on 23 May 2025

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