![](https://bharatshakti.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/LT-BSI-Defence.gif")
The Defence Ministry has begun a fast-track procurement to acquire 30 improved low-level light-weight radars Improved (LLLR-I) and two classroom variant radars (CRVs) for the Indian Army, moving to boost air surveillance capabilities after gaps were flagged during recent operations, particularly during Operation Sindoor.
A request for proposal (RFP) was issued on Friday under the fast-track procurement (FTP) route, with the acquisition estimated at Rs 725 crore, an Army source said. The use of the FTP route reflects an urgent operational requirement to strengthen the Army’s air defence network.
The radars are planned for deployment across a wide range of terrain, including mountains, high-altitude areas, plains, semi-deserts, deserts and coastal regions, where low-flying and small aerial threats remain difficult to track.
According to the RFP uploaded on the Army’s website, the Ministry of Defence intends to procure 30 LLLR-I systems and two CRVs under the “Buy (Indian)” category. Participation has been invited from prospective bidders who meet the technical and commercial requirements laid down in the document.
The LLLR-I is envisaged as a surveillance system for continuous scanning of airspace and for detecting and tracking aerial targets, including those with very low radar cross-section, based on prevailing threat perceptions. The system is required to detect all types of aerial targets at ranges of up to 50 km and provide wide elevation beam coverage.
A key requirement is seamless integration with the Army’s existing Air Defence Control and Reporting system. The RFP mandates compatibility with the Akashteer command and reporting module, along with the necessary gateway hardware and built-in software. The systems must also meet the Army Cyber Group’s criteria for secure connectivity with the Army Data Network.
The Defence Ministry has limited participation to original equipment manufacturers or authorised vendors, with preference to be given to OEMs if multiple entities offer the same equipment. The RFP stipulates a minimum indigenous content of 60 per cent.
Under the delivery schedule, the first tranche of 15 LLLR-I systems and one CRV is to be delivered within 12 months of the advance payment. The remaining systems are to be supplied within the following six months.
Team BharatShakti
