Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking to induct 12 high-powered anti-aircraft radars that can be used against any missile threats. The defence forces regularly update their threat perception. The region will see some new combat aircraft acquisitions in the coming years, which are inclusive of stealth features.
According to the Tribune, India seeks to acquire radars that are able to detect targets at 30km altitude, which also have the ability to detect and track targets with the radar cross section of 0.1 square metre or less following a parabolic trajectory.
These systems should be robust enough to be deployed in high altitude areas and must feature counter-electronic warfare and anti-radiation missiles.
Though IAF has a range of radars from low to long range, it is looking to modernise its hardware amidst the changing scenario in our neighbourhood. It is also looking to fill the gap in the defence network by acquiring these new radars.
Currently, these requirements can be met by a mix of Russian and French systems, according to the report.
The French Thales radar with its 600km range has been in service for some decades.
The Russian S-400 anti-aircraft missile system is also a contender. The Israeli Spyder system is known for its low level quick reaction missiles.
There have been reports that India's private sector is also working on high-powered radars. This is apart from the fact that India has already inducted some of Akash surface-to-air missiles and is also testing long range surface-to-air missile in collaboration with Israel.
India is in the process of acquiring several systems that will include long-range surface-to-air missiles, to bolster its air defence capabilities.
Meanwhile, China has been testing its stealth fighter, J-20 and is looking to induct a limited number of Sukhoi Su-35 jets from Russia. It has already paid an advance on S-400 missile system from Russia.
Pakistan on the other hand is acquiring ASELPOD advanced targeting pod from Turkey for JF-17 Thunder. There is also the possibility of Pakistan joining the TAI TFX project, to build fifth generation air superiority fighter.
