DRDO TDF Launches Shared Aperture Antenna Project; Targets Multi-Functionality And Reduced RCS Across Platforms
Illustrative
India’s Technology Development Fund (TDF), managed by DRDO, has introduced a
significant new project under its priority Request for Information (RFI) aimed
at developing shared aperture phased array antenna technology. This initiative
seeks to revolutionise antenna integration across radar, electronic warfare
(EW), and communication systems on modern military platforms.
The shared aperture concept addresses the growing challenge of platform
congestion due to multiple independent antenna arrays used for radar
surveillance, EW, and communications. By merging these functionalities into a
single aperture, the system reduces structural clutter, minimises mutual
interference, and improves electromagnetic compatibility across on-board
systems, particularly critical for stealth platforms.
A key advantage of this integrated approach lies in its ability to
significantly reduce radar cross-section (RCS). Traditional multi-antenna
configurations contribute to higher reflectivity and signature exposure. The
shared aperture antenna, conversely, enables a smooth electromagnetic profile,
essential for low-observable platforms such as stealth UAVs, advanced fighter
aircraft, and naval vessels requiring signature management.
The project proposes the development of two design verification modules (DVMs)
operating across distinct wideband frequency ranges: 1–6 GHz and 5–18 GHz.
These bands will collectively support multifunction capabilities required for
radar surveillance, high-data-rate communications, and EW operations.
By incorporating shared aperture arrays, these systems will simultaneously
handle detection, tracking, jamming, and data-link functions from one
radiating surface.
Critical indigenous technologies identified for the project include wideband
transmit/receive modules (TRMs), wideband antenna structures, wideband Radomes
leveraging metamaterial or frequency selective surface (FSS) designs, and a
unified exciter/receiver architecture. The integration of these subsystems is
essential to achieve high-performance multi-band operation without
compromising sensitivity or power distribution.
The unified exciter/receiver architecture lies at the core of this initiative,
enabling seamless signal coordination across the shared aperture. It allows
concurrent radar scanning, jamming, and communication transmissions through
coherent beamforming and dynamic frequency management. Such integration
promises agility in simultaneous multi-role operations, indispensable for
next-generation air and maritime platforms.
The envisaged antenna modules will play a key role in multiple strategic
programmes, including sea surveillance systems, ballistic missile defence
(BMD) tracking arrays, High Endurance Autonomous Unmanned Vehicles (HEAUVs),
and Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) platforms. The wider
operational bandwidth will permit real-time networked coordination across
these domains while maintaining low-profile installations.
The challenge lies in achieving ultra-wideband performance within compact
architectures without mutual functional degradation. Realisation of efficient
multi-band TRMs will require solid-state materials with linear gain
characteristics and adaptive calibration mechanisms to maintain phase
coherency across frequencies and functionalities.
The use of metamaterial or FSS-based Radomes will represent an additional
technological leap. These advanced materials can selectively filter, transmit,
or absorb signals within specific bands, ensuring that radar and communication
beams experience minimal losses while suppressing unwanted spectral leakage.
The result is enhanced sensitivity, radiation efficiency, and stealth
compatibility.
This initiative directly supports India’s larger objective of achieving
defence self-reliance in high-frequency electronic systems. By indigenising
shared aperture antenna technology, DRDO aims to reduce dependency on imported
hardware for radar and communication integration, fostering cross-domain
modularity within indigenous military systems.
Once realised, this technology will underpin future integrated sensor networks
across the Indian Armed Forces, enabling consolidated antenna architectures
for platforms ranging from ground-based command centres to space-linked
surveillance systems. It positions Indian defence electronics on par with
global benchmarks in multifunctional aperture technologies vital for
network-centric warfare.
Comparison: Shared Aperture Antenna Vs Existing Multi‑Antenna Systems
(AEW&C, TEJAS MK-2)
| Parameter | Existing Multi‑Antenna Architecture (AEW&C / TEJAS MK-2) | Proposed Shared Aperture Phased Array Antenna |
|---|---|---|
| System Configuration | Multiple discrete antennas for radar, EW, and communication systems mounted separately | Single integrated radiating aperture combining radar, EW, and communication functions |
| Frequency Coverage | Narrow to medium band; each subsystem limited to its operating range | Ultra‑wideband operation covering 1–6 GHz and 5–18 GHz simultaneously |
| Physical Footprint | High spatial requirement due to multiple arrays and feeds | Minimal footprint with consolidated aperture design |
| Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) | High potential for mutual interference and cross‑talk | Significantly reduced EMI due to unified and synchronised architecture |
| Radar Cross Section (RCS) | Elevated RCS signature from multiple exposed radiators | Reduced RCS achieved through streamlined shared aperture surface |
| System Weight and Cabling | Heavy wiring, connectors, and RF cabling between independent units | Reduced structural mass, simplified interconnections, and integrated signal paths |
| Operational Flexibility | Dedicated subsystems restrict parallel operations between radar, jamming, and communications | Concurrent multi‑functional performance through unified exciter/receiver coordination |
| Maintenance and Alignment | Complex calibration and separate fault diagnostics for each antenna | Simplified maintenance and self‑calibrating modules |
| Technology Base | Mature but segmented legacy hardware; partial foreign content | Indigenous wideband TRMs, Radome materials, and unified signal processing modules under TDF |
| Stealth Compatibility | Limited stealth integration due to multiple protruding antennas | High stealth efficiency from low‑profile conformal shared aperture |
| Applications | AEW&C, Tejas Mk2, Sukhoi upgrades, select naval radar systems | Future AEW&C variants, BMD surveillance, HEAUVs, stealth UAVs, naval integrated masts |
| Development Drivers | Platform‑specific antenna design with separate development cycles | Cross‑domain modularity enabling reuse across diverse vehicle classes |
| Strategic Outcome | Efficient in niche roles but lacks multi‑role adaptability | Core enabler for network‑centric warfare and indigenous sensor fusion capability |
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