In a major push for self-reliance in defence technology, the Ministry of Defence has signed a ₹2,906 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Ghaziabad, for the procurement of Low-Level Transportable Radar (LLTR) ‘Ashwini’ for the Indian Air Force. The contract was inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on March 12.
Designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), Ashwini is an advanced active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar equipped with state-of-the-art solid-state technology. The radar can detect and track a wide range of aerial threats—from high-speed fighter jets to slow-moving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters—and will significantly enhance the IAF’s air surveillance and operational readiness.
This procurement marks a significant step in India’s efforts to reduce reliance on foreign defence manufacturers while strengthening its indigenous defence industrial ecosystem. The Ashwini radar is expected to serve as a force multiplier for the Indian Air Force, reinforcing its ability to secure national airspace with cutting-edge technology developed within the country.
Team BharatShakti
