India’s Indigenous VHF-SR Anti-Stealth Radar Enters Field Trials

India’s defence research ecosystem has achieved a landmark milestone with the entry of its indigenous Anti-Stealth Surveillance Radar, known as VHF-SR (Very High Frequency – Short Range), into critical field trials. Developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), this system marks a significant leap forward in India’s indigenous capability to counter modern stealth aircraft.

This radar system has been specially designed to detect and track aircraft built with stealth technology — aircraft that conventional radars often struggle to pick up. Its induction into field trials signals the beginning of operational testing under realistic battlefield conditions, where its performance against low radar cross-section (RCS) targets and stealth platforms will be evaluated rigorously.

What Makes VHF-SR Radar Special?

The VHF-SR radar stands out for its use of Very High Frequency (VHF) band signals — operating between 30 MHz to 300 MHz — a range of frequencies at which conventional stealth aircraft are most vulnerable. While stealth aircraft are typically designed to evade detection from higher frequency radars, their effectiveness drops significantly against radars using longer wavelengths like those in the VHF band.

At the heart of this radar system are Gallium Nitride (GaN) based transmit-receive modules, which represent the latest in radar technology. Compared to older gallium arsenide modules, these offer higher power efficiency, better thermal management, and greater operational reliability. This means the radar can operate at higher power levels and for longer durations without overheating — an essential feature for sustained surveillance missions.

Key Technical Features and Capabilities

Here’s a clear look at the impressive specifications of the VHF-SR radar:

• Detection Range: Up to 400 kilometres for aircraft, including stealth fighters.

• Simultaneous Target Tracking: Can track up to 100 aerial targets at once.

• Core Technology: Based on GaN solid-state transmit-receive modules for superior power and reliability.

• Deployment Platform: Mounted on two mobile TATRA trucks, ensuring rapid relocation and operational flexibility.

• Staring Mode Surveillance: Capable of continuous, uninterrupted surveillance over a designated airspace without the gaps inherent in rotating radar systems.

• Operational Environments: Designed for deployment in diverse terrains, including high-altitude regions and coastal areas, with modular antennas for man/mule portability in difficult terrain.

Why Stealth Aircraft Can’t Hide From This

Modern stealth aircraft, like fifth-generation fighters, rely on shaping techniques and radar-absorbing materials to avoid detection by traditional high-frequency radars. However, their designs are not optimised to defeat radars operating in the VHF band.

The longer wavelengths of VHF radar interact differently with aircraft structures, often causing detectable reflections even from stealth-optimised surfaces. This makes VHF-SR a valuable tool in detecting stealth aircraft at ranges where conventional systems might fail.

This capability is particularly crucial for India, given the reported proliferation of Chinese-made J-35A stealth fighters in the region. The VHF-SR radar is specifically tailored to pick up such platforms, providing early warning even as they take off from forward airbases, giving Indian defence forces crucial reaction time.

Operational Deployment and Mobility Advantage

India’s geography demands radars that are not just powerful but also mobile and versatile. The VHF-SR radar meets this need by being mounted on TATRA all-terrain trucks, allowing rapid deployment and repositioning across border areas, coastal belts, and mountainous terrain.

This mobility ensures that the radar can remain survivable against potential enemy attacks and can quickly adapt its coverage based on evolving operational needs. Its antenna system has also been designed to be modular, allowing for easy transportation in rugged, inaccessible regions where vehicle access might be limited.

Field Trials: The Crucial Validation Phase

The current field trials mark the most critical phase in the radar’s development. These trials are intended to evaluate:

• The radar’s ability to detect and track low RCS stealth aircraft.

• Angular resolution and tracking accuracy under operational conditions.

• Integration with existing air defence networks for real-time target hand-offs and coordination.

• Performance against multiple simultaneous aerial threats.

• Operational reliability across different environmental and electromagnetic conditions.

Simulated stealth targets and various operational scenarios are being used to test the radar’s robustness and efficiency. These evaluations will confirm its suitability for frontline deployment and its role within India’s larger integrated air defence ecosystem.

Made in India, Powered by Innovation

The VHF-SR radar is not just a technological achievement but also a showcase of India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities. The collaboration between DRDO, BEL, and TASL combines public sector R&D strength with private sector agility and manufacturing expertise.

The indigenous development of advanced signal processing algorithms, antenna design, and GaN transmit-receive modules positions India among a select group of countries capable of developing operational anti-stealth radar systems. Moreover, the technology foundation laid through this program will benefit future projects in long-range surveillance, missile defence, and naval applications.

Conclusion

The DRDO-BEL-TASL VHF-SR anti-stealth surveillance radar is a landmark achievement for India’s defence sector. Its transition into field trials signals the arrival of a powerful new tool in India’s air defence arsenal, capable of countering stealth threats that have long challenged conventional radar systems.

With its 400-kilometre range, simultaneous multi-target tracking, and VHF-based anti-stealth technology, this system is set to become a critical pillar in India’s national security framework. Beyond its immediate operational utility, the VHF-SR radar represents a decisive step towards India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in advanced defence technologies and reducing dependence on foreign systems for critical security infrastructure.

As trials continue, this indigenous radar promises to reshape India’s air defence posture and serves as a testament to the country's capability to produce world-class, cutting-edge military technology.