![]() Swathi Weapon Locating Radar at Republic Day 2018 | |
Country of origin | India |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Bharat Electronics |
Designer | Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (DRDO) |
No. built | 46 |
Type | Artillery Locating Radar |
Frequency | C band [1] |
Range | Artillery → 2-30 km Rockets → 4-80 km [2] Mortars → 2-20 km [3] |
Azimuth | +/- 45° Electronic scan (Slewable Array) [1] |
Elevation | -5 to 75° [1] |
Power | 40 kW |
Other Names | Swathi |
The Swathi (Very Beneficent) [4] weapon locating radar is a mobile artillery-locating, phased array radar developed by India. [5] This counter-battery radar is designed to detect and track incoming artillery and rocket fire to determine the point of origin for counter-battery fire.
The WLR has been jointly developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), a lab of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The sub-systems have been fabricated by BEL based on the DRDO designs and delivered to LRDE for integration. [6]
The Indian army projected a requirement for fire-finding radars in the 1980s. [7] As early as 1989, the Indian Army evaluated the American AN/TPQ-36 and AN/TPQ-37 Firefinder radars. However, these radars were not allowed to be sold, and the procurement process was stopped by the Indian Government. [8] In February 1995, a Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued to five companies for procurement of 4 WLRs. Only Hughes (now Raytheon) responded to the RFP. After trials, the radar was found to not meet the General Staff Quality Requirements (GSQRs) of the Indian Army, which were found to be too stringent, and the GSQRs were then relaxed. At the same time, it was decided to consider development of an indigenous WLR by India's primary defence contractor, DRDO. [9]
In September 1998, an RFP was issued for the urgent purchase of WLRs - AN/TPQ-36/37 from Hughes (USA), Thomson CSF (France) and ISKARA of (Ukraine). However, the American and French radars were withheld when sanctions were imposed after India's Pokhran-II nuclear weapon tests, and negotiations with the Ukrainian manufacturers came to no conclusion. [10] Additionally, DRDO was not authorised to begin development of a WLR. These lacklustre efforts to obtain a WLR system were severely criticised by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence. [9]
Efforts to acquire such a system intensified after the Kargil War in 1999 where the Indian Army was severely disadvantaged by its lack of radar that could detect artillery fire. While the Pakistani forces were equipped with American AN/TPQ-36 Firefinder radars, India only had British Cymbeline mortar detecting radars, which were not suitable. [11] Almost 80% of Indian casualties during the war resulted from enemy artillery fire, making such a radar critical. [8] [10]
To correct this weakness, in 2002, the Ministry of Defence issued an RFP to five manufacturers. With the lifting of sanctions in late 2001, the US Government offered to sell the AN/TPQ-37 radar to India under their Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme for ₹. 680 million each. [12] In July 2002, India placed a US$ 200 million order for 12 AN/TPQ-37 Firefinder radars. [13] [14] Initially, only 8 were ordered for US$140 million, but the order was later increased to 12. [7] The radars were integrated on BEML Limited manufactured Tatra truck platforms. [8] Delivery of all 12 radars was completed in May 2007. [7] Concept design work on the WLR also accelerated in the aftermath of the Kargil War.
The WLR project was officially sanctioned in April 2002, with a sanctioned amount of ₹ 200 million and an estimated completion time of 40 months. [15] The first working prototype was to be ready by April 2004. The final project cost was US$ 49 million.[ citation needed ] In January 2003, an intent for procurement of 28 WLRs was placed with BEL. [13]
The WLR is similar to the AN/TPQ-37 radar in design and performance [16] but is reportedly more user friendly. [17] It is a passive electronically scanned array radar, derived from the Rajendra Radar (which is the fire control radar for the Akash missile system). [1] During tests of the Akash missile at Chandipur, engineers noticed the Rajendra radar was able to detect and track artillery shells being test fired at a nearby range. [8] [18] Based on this observation, LRDE scientists were able to adapt the Rajendra Array into the WLR.
The WLR Array is an electronically steered radar, meaning the radar antenna does not move while in operation. The radar can electronically scan a +/-45° range of azimuths for incoming rocket, artillery and mortar fire. The radar antenna is slewable up to +/-135° within 30 seconds, which gives the WLR the ability to quickly change its scanning sector, and provides it 360° scan capability. The coherent travelling-wave tube (TWT) based transmitter of the WLR emits 40 kilowatts of power. [1]
Tracking of the target is done with monopulse signals with pulse compression, which improves the radar's low probability of intercept (LPI) ability. The radar processors conduct real-time signal processing of the received signals. The weapon locating algorithm is an adaptive algorithm based on a modified version of the Runge-Kutta method, and uses constant false alarm rate (CFAR) techniques to detect the target accurately. The operator can choose the CFAR technique to be used to maximise the accuracy of information. The data is processed on a programmable digital signal processor using a modified extended Kalman filter, with two filters - one with 6 states, and another with 7 states. Clutter rejection is achieved through a moving target indicator (MTI), Airborne MTI (AMTI) and fast Fourier transform (FFT). [1]
Information is displayed on ruggedised power PCs on a high resolution multi-mode colour display. The data is displayed in real-time and can be overlaid on a 3D digital map. The WLR can store a 100 km x 100 km size digital map for display at any time. Other modes include plan position indicator (PPI) display, RHI displays, etc. [3] Up to 99 weapon locations can be stored and tracked at any time and can be transmitted to the command centre. [1]
The WLR is designed to detect and track incoming artillery rounds, mortar and rockets and locate their launchers. In its secondary role, it can also track and observe the fall of shot from friendly guns and provide fire corrections to counter-battery fire. [1]
The detection range for large caliber artillery rounds is up to 30 km, and increases to 40 km for unguided rockets. The robust design of the radar array and algorithms allows the WLR to effectively operate even in a high density fire environment, in severe radar clutter and interference (jamming) conditions. Up to 7 targets can be tracked simultaneously. The radar can track rounds fired at both low and high angles, and at all aspect angles - from behind or towards the radar, or at an oblique angle to the array. The WLR features adaptive radar resource scheduling to increase efficiency and reliability. [1]
At a given position, the radar can scan for targets in one quadrant, encompassing a 90° sector. The array can electronically scan up to +/-45° from its mean bearing. Additionally, for 360° coverage from a given position, the whole array can be rotated by 135° on either side within 30 seconds to quickly change the scanning sector in response to threats. [1]
Upon detecting an incoming round, the automatically acquires and classifies the threat and initiates a track sequence, while continuing to search for new targets. The incoming round's trajectory is tracked, and a computer program analyses the track data and then extrapolates the round's point of origin. This calculated point of origin is then reported to the radar operator and can be stored up to 99 target locations with broad digital map displays thus allowing friendly artillery to direct counter-battery fire towards the enemy artillery. [1] [19]
The WLR also allows for remote operation, and data-linking for better situational awareness at higher echelons of the command hierarchy. The data can be automatically transmitted to a command center, and can communicate with higher echelons. The radar data can also be displayed on a remote screen to protect operators from any targeted attacks on the radar. The operators can also remotely change the scanning sector. [1] Many radars can be networked together to work in tandem and increase the accuracy and provide more information.
The WLR is configured on a wheeled Tatra 8x8 truck platform. The trucks are manufactured by BEML in India under license. [8] The WLR is designed to operate in a high-density fire environment and has all weather capability, high mobility and quick reaction time. [20] The system is a two vehicle configuration, with the primary sensor, processors, displays and control unit on a single vehicle, and a separate power vehicle to power the radar. The radar data can also be displayed remotely. [1]
The Radar is designed to operate in harsh environments ranging from -20 to +55 °C, in hot and humid conditions, and can be safely stored from -40 to +70 °C. It can operate at high altitudes up to 16,000 feet (4,900 m). [1] [3] Shock and vibration performance and resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI)/electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) are according to international military standards. The WLR is designed for quick deployment and decamp, and can be ready for action within 30 minutes. In case of any incoming threats, the radar can be quickly moved out of the threat area. [1]
A basic prototype of the WLR was first unveiled at Aero India-2003. [20] The WLR was showcased at the Republic Day Parade in 2007. [21] User trials of the WLR began in 2005. The Army also used WLRs to further their "shoot-and-scoot" doctrine using self-propelled guns and artillery to loosen up defence before an offensive onslaught into hostile territory. [18] By mid-2006, the WLR was in advanced user acceptance trials and the radar was stated to be ready for production. [22] [23]
After user trials by the Indian Army in severe electronic clutter and "high density fire environment", in June 2008, the WLR was accepted by the Indian Army. [8] 28 units are on order, and are being manufactured by BEL. A large number of components will be sourced from the private sector, including some commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components from the international market. [8] The WLR will eventually service the Army's requirement for 40-50 systems. [24] Further improved versions of the WLR are being planned and designed, [8] including longer range versions, as well as more compact variants for better operation and navigation over mountainous terrains. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) officially handed over the WLR Swathi to the Indian Army on 2 March 2017 for service induction. Currently, the radar is using a 'passive' array but efforts are going on to upgrade it with an 'active' array to enhance performance and reliability. [25]
Armenia had conducted trials of similar systems offered by Russia and Poland, but they gave the final nod to the Indian system. The deal is for supplying four SWATHI weapon locating radars manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to Armenia. As per the agreement, India will supply four SWATHI weapon locating radars. [26] Armenia recently arrested an army Captain who was providing sensitive information about the radar to undisclosed foreign agencies for money. [27] [28]
On 30 March 2023, MoD signed a contract for WLR Swathi (Plains) with Bharat Electronic Limited (BEL) at a cost of over ₹ 990 crore (US$120 million). Induction is planned to be completed in 24 months. [29]
Akash is a medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). Surveillance and Fire control radar, tactical control and command center and missile launcher are developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Larsen & Toubro. The Akash missile system can target aircraft up to 45 km (28 mi) away. It has the capability to neutralise aerial targets like fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles. It is in operational service with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
A counter-battery radar or weapon tracking radar is a radar system that detects artillery projectiles fired by one or more guns, howitzers, mortars or rocket launchers and, from their trajectories, locates the position on the ground of the weapon that fired it. Such radars are a subclass of the wider class of target acquisition radars.
Rajendra is a passive electronically scanned array radar developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This acts as the Fire-control radar for Akash weapon system. It is a multifunction radar, capable of surveillance, tracking and engaging low radar cross section targets. It is a ground surveillance radar and is a great source of surveillance operating at frequency around 20 GHz. It is mainly used to track enemy's installations.
Hughes AN/TPQ-36 Firefinder weapon locating system is a mobile radar system developed in the mid-late 1970s by Hughes Aircraft Company and manufactured by Northrop Grumman and ThalesRaytheonSystems, achieving initial operational capability in May 1982. The system is a "weapon-locating radar", designed to detect and track incoming mortar, artillery and rocket fire to determine the point of origin for counter-battery fire. It is currently in service at battalion and higher levels in the United States Army, United States Marine Corps, Australian Army, Portuguese Army, Turkish Army, and the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
A passive electronically scanned array (PESA), also known as passive phased array, is an antenna in which the beam of radio waves can be electronically steered to point in different directions, in which all the antenna elements are connected to a single transmitter and/or receiver. The largest use of phased arrays is in radars. Most phased array radars in the world are PESA. The civilian microwave landing system uses PESA transmit-only arrays.
Hughes AN/TPQ-37 Firefinder Weapon Locating System is a mobile radar system developed in the late 1970s by Hughes Aircraft Company, achieving Initial Operational Capability in 1980 and full deployment in 1984. Currently manufactured by ThalesRaytheonSystems, the system is a long-range version of "weapon-locating radar", designed to detect and track incoming artillery and rocket fire to determine the point of origin for counter-battery fire. It is currently in service at brigade and higher levels in the United States Army and by other countries. The radar is trailer-mounted and towed by a 2+1⁄3-short-ton (2,100 kg) truck. A typical AN/TPQ-37 system consists of the Antenna-Transceiver Group, Command Shelter and 60 kW Generator.
The SLC-2 Radar is a Chinese active electronically scanned array counter-battery radar designed to locate hostile artillery, rocket and ground-to-ground missile launchers immediately after firing, and to support friendly artillery by guiding counter-battery fire.
ARTHUR is a counter-battery radar system originally developed jointly for and in close co-operation with the Norwegian and Swedish armed forces by Ericsson Microwave Systems in both Sweden and Norway. It is also used by the British Army, under the names mobile artillery monitoring battlefield radar or mobile artillery monitoring battlefield asset (MAMBA).
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is an Indian public sector aerospace and defence electronics company. It primarily manufactures advanced electronic products for ground and aerospace applications. BEL is one of sixteen PSUs under the administration of Ministry of Defence of India. It has been granted Navratna status by the Government of India.
Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) is a laboratory of the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), India. Located in C.V. Raman Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, its primary function is research and development of radars and related technologies. It was founded by S. P. Chakravarti, the father of Electronics and Telecommunication engineering in India, who also founded DLRL and DRDL.
The Low Flying Detection Radar also called Indian Doppler Radar (INDRA) series of 2D radars were developed by Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Army and the Air Force. These were then produced by the Bharat Electronics which generally the production partner of LRDE. The INDRA-I is a mobile surveillance radar for low level target detection while the INDRA-II is for ground controlled interception of targets.
The central acquisition radar (3D-CAR) is a 3D radar developed by DRDO for use with Akash SAM capable of tracking 150 targets.
The PJT-531 Battle Field Surveillance Radar – Short Range(BFSR-SR) is a man portable 2D short-range battlefield and perimeter surveillance radar developed by the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The BFSR has been designed by DRDO's Bengaluru-based laboratory, the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) and is being manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
AN/TPQ-53 Quick Reaction Capability Radar is a mobile active electronically scanned array counter-battery radar system manufactured by Lockheed Martin.
Ramadas Panemangalore Shenoy was an Indian defence scientist and writer, known for his contributions in the field of radar technology. He secured a doctoral degree in electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and joined Defence Research and Development Organization in 1961, involving himself with the indigenous development of radar technology till his retirement, as a Distinguished Scientist, in 1989.
Aistyonok is a portable counter-battery radar system developed and produced by the state-owned Almaz-Antey corporation for the Russian Armed Forces.
Zoopark-1 1L219 is a counter-battery radar system developed by Almaz-Antey for the Soviet Armed Forces. It is a mobile active electronically scanned array radar for the purpose of enemy field-artillery acquisition. The system can detect mortar shells at a distance of up to 20 kilometers, up to 30 kilometers for artillery shells and up to 50 kilometers for ground-to-air rockets, determining location of origin of a fire. Moving ground targets can be detected at a distance of up to 40 kilometers. It reached initial operating status in 1989.
COBRA COunter Battery RAdar is a Counter-battery radar system developed jointly by Thales, Airbus Defence and Space and Lockheed Martin for the French, British and German Armed Forces. It is a mobile Active electronically scanned array 3D radar based on a wheeled chassis for the purpose of enemy field artillery acquisition.
This article consists of projects of the Defence Research and Development Organisation.
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: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)India has developed a weapon-locating radar (WLR) similar to the AN/TPQ-37 of the US at a cost of ₹.260 million ($49 million), Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee told the Lok Sabha 9 Dec.
The new radar is based on the Rajendra-phased radar system that is already deployed in the Indian armed forces after engineers accidentally noticed during an anti-missile Akash missile test, that the Rajendra system could detect and track artillery shells.
"It (weapon locating radar) is in the final stage of evaluation. Once evaluation is complete, we will deliver it to armed forces," chairman and managing director of BEL, Y Gopala Rao, told reporters.
Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) and Bharat Electronics Limited are in the process of developing a weapon-locating radar, similar to the phased array Rajendra radar system, customised for airborne and ground defence systems.
DRDO's weapon-locating radar would be in competition to fill the Indian Army's need for 40-50 such systems.
DRDO scuttled a contract that was on the verge of being signed by India in 1997 for the import of a Weapon Locating Radar as the latter promised to produce it indigenously within two years.