BEL Wins DRDO Contract for AMCA MK-2’s Distributed Aperture System

In a decisive move for India’s next-generation fighter program, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has emerged as the winner of the Distributed Aperture System (DAS) project for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) MK-2, outbidding its competitor Data Patterns. This contract marks a significant milestone in India’s push to indigenously develop advanced avionics and sensor systems for its fifth-generation fighters.

Development Contract and Delivery Schedule

The project is structured around two variants of the DAS. The High Definition (HD) version has been awarded at a cost of ₹12.92 crore, while the more advanced Dual Band (DB) variant carries a value of ₹41.97 crore. The delivery timelines are ambitious yet strategic, with the HD variant expected by 29 August 2026 and the DB variant by 29 August 2027, ensuring timely integration into the AMCA MK-2’s development schedule.

Role and Function of the Distributed Aperture System

The Distributed Aperture System is a network of sensors positioned around the aircraft to provide pilots with complete 360-degree situational awareness. By continuously monitoring the surrounding airspace, the system can detect and track incoming threats, including missiles, enemy aircraft, and hostile fire. This capability is particularly vital for stealth aircraft like the AMCA MK-2, as DAS effectively allows pilots to "see through" the airframe, reducing blind spots and enhancing survivability.

Beyond threat detection, DAS plays a crucial role in night and all-weather operations. Its combination of infrared and multi-spectral sensors ensures operational efficiency even under low visibility or adverse environmental conditions. The system also integrates seamlessly with the aircraft’s mission computers, enabling faster target prioritization and engagement decisions. The Dual Band variant, with its multi-spectral capability, further enhances threat detection, electronic warfare resilience, and operational effectiveness in complex combat scenarios.

Strategic Importance for the AMCA MK-2 Program

For the AMCA MK-2, the DAS is more than just a sensor system; it is a cornerstone of pilot survivability and combat effectiveness. By delivering real-time data and situational awareness, DAS allows pilots to respond swiftly to emerging threats, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s defensive and offensive capabilities. BEL’s indigenous development of this system also underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers for critical fighter avionics.

With the HD variant scheduled for 2026 and the DB variant following in 2027, BEL is poised to become a central player in the AMCA MK-2’s avionics ecosystem. The successful deployment of DAS will not only provide Indian pilots with world-class situational awareness but also demonstrate India’s growing prowess in advanced sensor technologies. As the program progresses, the integration of DAS with other next-generation avionics and weapon systems will be a decisive factor in positioning the AMCA MK-2 as a truly formidable fifth-generation fighter in the region.