India Boosts Air Defence with Indigenous Ashwini Radar

The Indian Defence Ministry signed a Rs 2,906 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd for the Ashwini radar, which enhances Indian Air Force capabilities. Developed by DRDO, Ashwini can track various aerial targets and supports India's move toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The Indian government's push towards indigenous defence capabilities has taken a significant leap with the signing of a Rs 2,906 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd for the procurement of the Ashwini radar. This marks a substantial investment in strengthening the Air Force's operational readiness.

Developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Ashwini radar employs advanced solid state technology. It is adept at tracking a wide range of aerial targets, from high-speed fighter jets to slower objects such as unmanned aerial vehicles and helicopters.

This acquisition underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing by minimizing dependency on foreign equipment, thereby fostering the domestic defence industrial ecosystem. The official ceremony was attended by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, reflecting the strategic importance of the initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)