A new chapter has begun in India’s defence technology with Alpha Design Technologies Limited (ADTL) developing a revolutionary radar system — the ‘Surya VHF Radar’. Designed exclusively for the Indian Air Force (IAF), this indigenous radar marks a major step forward in detecting “invisible” or stealth fighter jets.

According to official claims, the Surya Radar can successfully detect advanced fifth-generation stealth aircraft such as China’s J-20 and J-35 — a capability that places India among the few nations with cutting-edge radar technology.

 A Milestone in India’s Self-Reliant Defence Program

The Surya VHF Radar operates in the Very High Frequency (VHF) band, which has a longer wavelength compared to standard radar systems. This allows it to penetrate Radar Absorbing Materials (RAM) that typically conceal stealth aircraft from high-frequency radars.

As a result, aircraft that usually remain undetected — including low-observable fighters like the J-20 — become visible on the radar’s screen. The resonance effect generated by VHF waves on large aircraft surfaces further enhances detection accuracy, mahttps://english.techneandlogos.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/101.jpg it a revolutionary addition to India’s air defence network.

 Exceptional Detection Power and Modern Features

The Surya Radar boasts an impressive detection range of up to 360 kilometres. It can easily track targets with a radar cross-section as small as 2 square metres in the sky.

With its antenna rotating 10 times per minute, the radar ensures continuous 360-degree surveillance coverage. Another standout feature is its “Staring Mode”, designed for precise trachttps://english.techneandlogos.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/101.jpg of slow-moving or advanced stealth targets.

This mode enables uninterrupted trachttps://english.techneandlogos.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/101.jpg rather than just detection, greatly benefiting the Air Defence Ground Environment System (ADGES) of the IAF by providing real-time situational awareness.

Rugged Design and All-Terrain Mobility

Built on two 6×6 High Mobility Vehicles, the Surya Radar is designed for rapid deployment across border zones or remote airbases.

Its solid-state modular architecture enhances durability and ensures consistent performance even in extreme weather conditions, mahttps://english.techneandlogos.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/101.jpg it ideal for India’s diverse operational environments — from deserts to high altitudes.

 A ₹200-Crore Leap in Indigenous Defence Innovation

Under a ₹200 crore project, ADTL has been contracted to deliver six Surya VHF Radars to the Indian Air Force. The first unit was officially handed over in March 2025, marhttps://english.techneandlogos.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/101.jpg a landmark achievement in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

This system stands as India’s first fully indigenous VHF radar, reinforcing the nation’s strategic autonomy and technological prowess in air defence.