The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated a major programme to co-develop an indigenous Satellite Communication (SATCOM)-based data-link for next-generation fighter aircraft, the TEJAS MK-2 and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

This project, led by DRDO’s Defence Electronics Application Laboratory (DEAL) in Dehradun, is aimed at enabling secure, full-duplex data transfer between aircraft, ground stations, and other platforms through beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) communications.

The data-link system, designed to integrate with Indian military satellites, will support real-time mission coordination, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare functions, thereby enhancing operational capabilities and autonomy of India’s combat aircraft.

An Expression of Interest (EoI) has been floated to invite private Indian firms with expertise in software-defined radios, waveform design, and digital communications. Established defence industry players such as TATA Advanced Systems, L&T, and Dynamatic Technologies are considered potential contenders.

The selection of industry partners will be made through a Combined Quality Cum Cost Based System (CQCCBS), ensuring a balance between cost efficiencies and technical robustness. Key system requirements include resilience against jamming, high levels of interoperability, and ability to withstand harsh combat environments.

Prototypes will undergo rigorous validation before integration with the aircraft’s avionics. Although timelines remain undisclosed, efforts will align with induction schedules—targeted for the late 2020s in the case of TEJAS MK-2 and early 2030s for AMCA.

The initiative is part of DRDO’s broader strategy to promote domestic innovation by fostering private-sector collaboration, supported by its network of 15 DRDO Industry-Academia Centres of Excellence (DIA-CoEs).

Beyond TEJAS MK-2 and AMCA, the SATCOM data-link technology may be expanded to other aviation platforms, marking a significant step toward self-reliance in critical defence communication systems.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)