Indian Army's new LLLR-I radars can detect tiny drones to fighter jets: A major upgrade in air defence

The Indian Army is set to strengthen its air defence capabilities against fighter aircraft and drones as the defence ministry signed a contract worth ₹770 crore for the procurement of Improved Low Level Light Weight Radars (LLLR-I) from Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), on Wednesday.

The indigenous radar system is designed to detect and track a wide range of aerial threats, including fighter-sized aircraft, mini and micro drones, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It can also prioritise aerial targets, helping the Army respond more effectively to threats from unmanned aerial systems.

One of the major advantages of the LLLR-I is its ability to detect targets that have a low radar cross-section (RCS), including small drones that can be difficult to track. The radar also provides 360-degree coverage, allowing it to monitor aerial threats approaching from different directions.

According to the defence ministry, the procurement will improve the Army's ability to counter threats from unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

What makes the LLLR-I radar important for the Indian Army?

The LLLR-I is a next-generation, multi-mission radar designed to detect and track different types of aerial targets. Unlike conventional radar systems that rely on mechanically rotating antennas, the LLLR-I uses four fixed phased-array antenna panels to provide complete 360-degree surveillance.

The absence of moving parts is intended to improve reliability and reduce maintenance requirements.

The system uses Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, which allows it to electronically direct radar beams rather than physically move the antenna. It also incorporates Gallium Nitride (GaN) amplifiers and digital beamforming technology to improve radar performance.

These technologies enable the system to generate multiple agile beams in elevation and accurately track aerial targets.

The radar uses advanced three-dimensional processing capabilities to distinguish targets from unwanted radar returns and reduce the effects of multipath interference. This is particularly important for detecting small drones and other low-RCS (low radar cross-section) targets.

The system can automatically track targets while continuing to scan the surrounding airspace through its Track While Scan capability.

It can also prioritise detected aerial targets, allowing the Army to identify threats that require attention.

Another important feature is its ability to provide target information to weapon systems through wired or wireless communication links. This allows information gathered by the radar to be passed to other systems responsible for responding to aerial threats.

The LLLR-I also incorporates electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM) capabilities, designed to help maintain radar performance in the presence of electronic interference.

Its monopulse tracking technique provides accurate target tracking in elevation.

The LLLR-I has also been designed for deployment across different types of terrain, including plains, deserts and high-altitude regions. Its lightweight configuration allows it to be carried by personnel and transported using load-carrying vehicles already in service.

The radar's four antenna panels are mounted on tripods and are passively cooled. As the system does not require mechanical movement or liquid cooling, its design is intended to improve reliability and increase the mean time between failures.

The radar also features a built-in self-test function to help identify technical issues. A control and display unit (CDU) allows operators to remotely control radar modes and view the air situation through a human-machine interface.

According to the ministry, the procurement aligns with the government's Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and its efforts to develop a self-reliant and globally competitive defence industry.