Tech Desk: India’s journey towards defense self-reliance took a significant leap forward as DRDO showcased its groundbreaking DRDO indigenous chips at the ESTIC 2026 conclave. These advanced semiconductor technologies are poised to revolutionize the nation’s radar, electronic warfare (EW), and missile systems, marking a pivotal moment for indigenous defense capabilities.

The exhibition at Bharat Mandapam highlighted Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) and Infrared Focal Plane Arrays (IRFPAs), developed by the Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL), Delhi. These critical components, including Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based MMICs, are already integrated into strategic missions, bolstering detection, tracking, and electronic countermeasure abilities across advanced radar networks and EW systems.

Furthermore, DRDO’s IRFPAs act as the “eyes” of tactical missiles, integrated with Imaging Infrared (IIR) seekers. This allows missiles unparalleled precision in target detection, identification, and tracking during their terminal flight phase. The display also featured a wide spectrum of infrared technologies, from Short-Wave to Long-Wave Infrared. This indigenous development ensures that India’s cutting-edge defense technologies are powered by homegrown innovation, strengthening national security and reducing reliance on foreign imports. The future of Indian defense is truly self-reliant.