Super Sukhoi Radar Overhaul: DRDO Redesigns Radome to Optimise Virupaksha AESA Performance
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has quietly initiated another important step in the Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI modernization programme. While much attention has focused on the development of the indigenous Virupaksha Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, a recent Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) indicates that the radar itself is only one part of the upgrade. The aircraft’s X-band radome—the composite nose cone that houses the radar—is also being completely redesigned. The Statement of Work (SoW) accompanying the RFP provides rare insight into how DRDO intends to maximize the performance of what is expected to become India’s most powerful fighter-mounted AESA radar. Unlike conventional nose cones, a modern radome is far more than an aerodynamic covering. It acts as an electromagnetic window that must allow radar energy to pass through with minimal attenuation or distortion while simultaneously protecting the sensitive antenna from rain, bird strikes, temperature extremes and aerodynamic loads. Even a highly advanced AESA radar can lose detection range and beam quality if the radome introduces excessive signal loss or unwanted reflections. The LRDE documents suggest that the new radome has been engineered specifically to complement the Virupaksha radar’s significantly larger antenna. The proposed antenna reportedly features a 2,400-radiating-element architecture, making it substantially larger than previous Indian fighter radars. According to the available design information, the antenna incorporates a 48×32 core array with additional graduated taper rows, creating an octagonal or tapered face rather than a simple rectangular arrangement.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Indian defense modernization.
- Technology induction and operational readiness.