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India Expands Aerial Surveillance with Ashwini Radars to Counter China's Growing Threat.
As part of efforts to enhance its defense industry’s self-reliance, India signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the acquisition of 18 Ashwini Low-Level Transportable Radars (LLTR). This order, valued at $330 million, marks a step in equipping the Indian Air Force (IAF) with domestically developed surveillance capabilities in response to China's expanding aerial monitoring systems. The contract was finalized on March 12, 2025, in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The Ashwini Radar was showcased at Rajpath during the 69th Republic Day Parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2018 (Picture source: WikiCommons)
Developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), these radars represent a first for the IAF, providing an advanced detection solution for aerial threats, including fighter jets, helicopters, missiles, and slow-moving drones.
The Ashwini radar is based on state-of-the-art active electronically scanned array (AESA) technology with solid-state transmitter-receiver modules. It provides efficient aerial surveillance through its distributed architecture, high reliability, and capability to function in complex electronic warfare environments. Mounted on a vehicle, it can be rapidly deployed in rugged terrain or border areas, aligning with the operational requirements of the IAF. This system offers 360-degree horizontal coverage in rotation mode and 40-degree vertical coverage, ensuring precise detection of threats at altitudes ranging from 30 meters to 15 km. It operates with a rotation speed of 7.5 or 15 revolutions per minute and features a staring mode with a surveillance coverage of ±60° in azimuth and 40° in elevation.
With a detection range of up to 200 km, the radar can identify targets with a radar cross-section (RCS) of 2 square meters at distances of up to 150 km. Its adaptable architecture and advanced software algorithms allow it to function as an early warning sensor for airbases, enhancing the IAF’s operational preparedness. The system is fully programmable via a local operator workstation, providing an intuitive interface for real-time operations. After completing user trials, it has been approved for integration into the IAF’s arsenal.
This acquisition comes amid rising tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, where Beijing continues to expand its surveillance network.
To address this evolving technological landscape, India is working to bridge the gap in aerial surveillance. In October 2023, IAF Chief Air Marshal VR Chaudhari highlighted the extensive deployment of Chinese radars along the LAC and emphasized the need for the IAF to invest in high-powered radars capable of deep detection. The introduction of the Ashwini radars aligns with this strategic priority.
The DRDO has developed multiple mobile radar systems for the Indian armed forces, including the Rajendra radar, a multifunctional system for guiding Akash missiles, the Swathi radar, designed for locating enemy artillery fire, and the INDRA radar, used for detecting low-altitude targets. Other notable systems include the Rohini, a 3D medium-range surveillance radar, and the Air Defence Tactical Control Radar (ADTCR), used for volumetric surveillance and aerial threat identification. These systems enhance India's radar coverage and provide a responsive capability against evolving threats.
While India continues to develop its surveillance infrastructure to match China's capabilities, this program represents a key milestone in its defense strategy. By investing in indigenous solutions, New Delhi reduces dependence on foreign suppliers while strengthening its domestic defense industry. The acquisition of 18 Ashwini radars is a crucial step in modernizing the IAF’s operational capabilities, allowing it to anticipate and counter aerial threats more effectively along its borders.