IAF Deploys ₹2,906 Cr Radar to Counter China’s 5,000km Reach

Quick Summary

• India is enhancing its air defence capabilities by procuring 18 ‘Ashwini’ Low-Level Transportable Radars (LLTRs) for the Indian Air Force.
• The Rs 2,906 crore contract was signed wiht Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and marks a move towards self-reliance in defense technology.
• These indigenous radars, developed by DRDO, will replace imported systems and improve tracking of aerial threats like fighter jets, drones, and helicopters.
• China’s expansion of radar capabilities poses a strategic challenge for india. The PLA has deployed large phased-array radars near the Indian border with ranges exceeding 5,000 km.
• This development permits China to monitor deep into Indian territory, affecting missile testing sites and vital maritime zones for India.
• The Indian Navy is also focusing on indigenous technological advancements to enhance its capabilities.

Indian Opinion Analysis

India’s procurement of Ashwini LLTRs represents a important step toward bolstering national security through indigenous technology. This move not only strengthens operational preparedness but also fosters domestic industrial growth. However, China’s sophisticated radar network presents an ongoing challenge. India’s focus on developing homegrown solutions can provide strategic advantages but requires sustained investment and innovation to keep pace with China’s advancements.

The current situation underscores the importance of regional security dynamics along the Line of Actual Control. By investing in technologies that provide surveillance coverage into Chinese territory, India could mitigate some threats posed by China’s expanding radar capabilities.

As both nations continue advancing their defense capabilities amidst existing tensions, it remains crucial for India to align its strategies with global technological trends while reinforcing its commitment to becoming self-reliant in defense manufacturing.

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