DRDO Showcases Aerostat Radars at Aero-India 2011

The DRDO in collaboration with the Aerial Delivery Research & Development Establishment (ADRDE) has developed Akashdeep, which will be one of the biggest flying machines. The solution will be showcased at Aero-India 2011.

Aerostats are simple in design and easy to use. Their operation is dependable and is rugged and cost-efficient. Many aerostat borne radar systems are already in use in India in situations where ground-bound radars prove insufficient or where more radars need to be used for non stop coverage. Already in operation are many IAI/Elta EL/M-2083 air surveillance systems. In the year 2004, the Indian Air Force obtained six of the EL/M-2083 aerostats from Israel. Each one can cover a 3S volume (such as look-down low-altitude coverage angles) equivalent to 30 to 40 ground-based radars. They are in use at the border in the Kutch region and in Punjab. However, the present need is for 13 such aerostat radars. In an effort to enhance vigilance on the country’s coastline, the country has placed a further order for two more aerostat radars in the year 2009.