HAL Develops Cutting-Edge SDR-1 for Future Tejas Fleet

India's commitment to developing an indigenous defence industry is reinforced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) continued development of the Software Defined Radio 1 (SDR-1) for the Tejas MkII fighter program.

This push for domestic technology comes despite the successful use of Israel's Elta-supplied B-NET SDR in the Tejas Mk1A's recent maiden flight.

Why SDRs Matter​

Software Defined Radios (SDRs) are a critical component of modern military aircraft. They provide flexible, multi-channel communication capabilities, adapting across various frequencies and waveforms.

SDRs streamline operations by replacing numerous specialized radios with a single, versatile system.

HAL's SDR-1: A Domestic Solution​

HAL's SDR-1, now in the testing phase, is designed to power the communications backbone of India's next-generation Tejas MkII fighter.

Alongside the SDR-1, HAL is also developing the SDR-2 for supplementary VHF and SATCOM needs, aiming for a comprehensive, indigenously-produced communication suite.

Key Features of the SDR-1​

• Flexibility: The SDR-1 operates in V/UHF and L-bands, supporting traditional AM/FM waveforms along with advanced Frequency Hopping (FH) voice and Dynamic Time Division Multiple Access (D-TDMA) networking.
• Interoperability: Interfaces like MIL-STD-1553B, Ethernet, and RS-232/422 ensure seamless integration with the fighter's other systems.
• Efficient Design: A compact ½ ATR form factor and horizontal mounting maximize space. Built-in power amplifiers and a DC fan cooling system reduce complexity.
• Usability: Intuitive Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) simplify mode selection and waveform loading.
• Adaptability: HAL designed the SDR-1 with growth in mind. It can potentially support additional waveforms and new frequency bands in the future.

Strategic Importance​

HAL's focus on the SDR-1 underscores a broader emphasis on self-reliance in the Indian defence industry. Developing domestic SDR capabilities has several advantages:

• Reduced Dependence: Less reliance on foreign imports strengthens strategic autonomy.
• Tailored Solutions: Indigenous development enables customization to fit the Indian Air Force's specific operational requirements.
• Technology Growth: Investing in in-house R&D fosters a knowledge base and benefits the broader Indian technology sector.
• Security: Domestically-sourced radios reduce risks of potential backdoors or supply chain disruptions in times of crisis.

Challenges and Outlook​

Developing an advanced SDR is complex. HAL must overcome technical hurdles and address any performance gaps when compared to mature foreign solutions like the B-NET.

However, successful development of the SDR-1 would mark a significant milestone for India's defence manufacturing sector and lay the foundation for future communication technologies.

 

[Ajath]

If the indigenous SDR is certified , then why not ?

 

[NSR]

That is a very wise decision.
We have to wean away from many of the systems that we can manufacture by ourselves.
Israelis do not transfer any TOT or IP even if we pay 100% costs to develop like LRSAM and MRSAM.
Now they are creating their own defense company to maintain MRSAM and LRSAM.
I do not know how India ended up in this situation but I have never seen a contract like MRSAM and LRSAM.
Very sad.

 

[sanket]

HAL is Going very Good .all Future Fighter jets Being planned to Induct will have more & more Indigenous Content.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

First they should tell us how long of a delay this so-called indigenous option would cause to the prototype development schedule. If it indeed will cause delays then no need, better use Israeli option and accelerate the prototype development and testing. We have had enough of vital projects being held hostage endlessly for the sake of giving chance for domestic options. If it is developed within the time schedule for prototype fabrication and testing well and good, use it however no need to wait for it to materialize and stalling the entire progress on the entire project.

 

[Deepak Hegde]

This is what HAL specializes in. Try to do everything possible under sun and moon, delay everything and not deliver anything on time. Absolutely no focus!

 

[SK]

This is a good news & if possible should be integrated with Tejas-Mk1A as well.

I hope that we get to see the same development with Kaveri-Engine program.

 

[beencensured]

First they should tell us how long of a delay this so-called indigenous option would cause to the prototype development schedule. If it indeed will cause delays then no need, better use Israeli option and accelerate the prototype development and testing. We have had enough of vital projects being held hostage endlessly for the sake of giving chance for domestic options. If it is developed within the time schedule for prototype fabrication and testing well and good, use it however no need to wait for it to materialize and stalling the entire progress on the entire project.

Just keep using foreign items so the world can hack india. There is no logic for your irrational thoughts as still Tejas mk 2 is years away. I would say get rid of the Israeli electronics from Tejas ASAP.

 

[NSR]

If the indigenous SDR is certified , then why not ?

Totally agree with you.
Waste of money for sure.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

If the indigenous SDR is certified , then why not ?

Correction, If indegenous SDR of same approximate capability is developed within the specified revised development window for prototype fabrication, then sure, else a flat no. If SDR development and integration is anticipated to take time then, integrate them at a later stage during tranche upgrade no point in waiting for it to materialize stalling the entire project which is already behind schedule by atleast 3-5 years.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

Just keep using foreign items so the world can hack india. There is no logic for your irrational thoughts as still Tejas mk 2 is years away. I would say get rid of the Israeli electronics from Tejas ASAP.

Can u assure that Indian developed SDR eould be impossible to crack encryption and hack through? 🤔 The answer is no nobody can, bcoz by employing adequate processing capability even the most potent encryption can be cracked, so ur point is null and void. As a committed adversary will invariably find a way to hack through. On the contrary Israeli SDR would be lot more secure due to their inherent strength in cyber warfare.

 

[Vijigishu ( विजिग्शु )]

Just keep using foreign items so the world can hack india. There is no logic for your irrational thoughts as still Tejas mk 2 is years away. I would say get rid of the Israeli electronics from Tejas ASAP.

Both things can happen. Same as in Uttam radar. Develop domestic item in background while using available item in market to fast track the product development.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

Just keep using foreign items so the world can hack india. There is no logic for your irrational thoughts as still Tejas mk 2 is years away. I would say get rid of the Israeli electronics from Tejas ASAP.

The problem is my though is based on pragmatic scenario. It wouldn't be the first time the entire project suffered enormous delays because development of some sub system took time. U do realize development of SDR indigenously would require development of advanced algorithms to manage frequency hopping spread spectrum? those algorithms would need to be heavily encrypted again and decryption keys designed in every compliant station capable of receiving signals.

Do u think they would happen in short duration? no they would require a committed independent effort that's unlikely to be in sync with the MK2 development timeline.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

First they should tell us how long of a delay this so-called indigenous option would cause to the prototype development schedule. If it indeed will cause delays then no need, better use Israeli option and accelerate the prototype development and testing. We have had enough of vital projects being held hostage endlessly for the sake of giving chance for domestic options. If it is developed within the time schedule for prototype fabrication and testing well and good, use it however no need to wait for it to materialize and stalling the entire progress on the entire project.

The delay has already happened. The MoD had asked for a greater degree of indigenisation before giving approval. That is why approval was given late. More components needed to be indigenised, that is why entire program got delayed.

Rollout is scheduled for 2025 with first flight in 2026. I dont think there will be further delays.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

The delay has already happened. The MoD had asked for a greater degree of indigenisation before giving approval. That is why approval was given late. More components needed to be indigenised, that is why entire program got delayed.

Rollout is scheduled for 2025 with first flight in 2026. I dont think there will be further delays.

Which itself does not make any practical sense. When IAF is itself looking at a steep drop in squadron strength to just 28 squadrons against an minimum operational strength of 44 squadrons, the priority should be to induct a platform as quiockly as possible. If it so means that first few squadrons would have to use imported components then so be it. Import every single sub system if u have to and put the platform into prototype flight trials and subsequent production ASAP. It does not make any practical sense to delay induction of LCA MK2 while waiting for greater quantum of indigenous sub systems to materialize.

At the same time continue development of indigenous sub systems concurrently and incorporate them as and when ready in a phased block upgrade program. I said it previously both DRDO, MoD continue to live in fantasy land with respect to indigenous development and the whole process is little more than a farce that just keeps piling up delays.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

The delay has already happened. The MoD had asked for a greater degree of indigenisation before giving approval. That is why approval was given late. More components needed to be indigenised, that is why entire program got delayed.

Rollout is scheduled for 2025 with first flight in 2026. I dont think there will be further delays.

Oh but I will assure u, if they link the development of sub systems with LCA MK2 then the program is almost assured to miss deadline of 2026 for commencing flight trials.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

Oh but I will assure u, if they link the development of sub systems with LCA MK2 then the program is almost assured to miss deadline of 2026 for commencing flight trials.

They linked this development 2-3 years ago. That is why the first deadline of rollout in 2023 was missed. The revised deadline of 2026 has been made after keeping in mind the development of subsystems.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

They linked this development 2-3 years ago. That is why the first deadline of rollout in 2023 was missed. The revised deadline of 2026 has been made after keeping in mind the development of subsystems.

I know that's why i said no point in waiting for sub systems to be developed and priority should be on putting it in air as quickly as possible.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

Which itself does not make any practical sense. When IAF is itself looking at a steep drop in squadron strength to just 28 squadrons against an minimum operational strength of 44 squadrons, the priority should be to induct a platform as quiockly as possible. If it so means that first few squadrons would have to use imported components then so be it. Import every single sub system if u have to and put the platform into prototype flight trials and subsequent production ASAP. It does not make any practical sense to delay induction of LCA MK2 while waiting for greater quantum of indigenous sub systems to materialize.

At the same time continue development of indigenous sub systems concurrently and incorporate them as and when ready in a phased block upgrade program. I said it previously both DRDO, MoD continue to live in fantasy land with respect to indigenous development and the whole process is little more than a farce that just keeps piling up delays.

It does make sense to MoD. The govt is pusing for self reliance. And tejas mk2 is set to replace medium category of aircraft in IAF, which will be in service at least till 2035. So few years of delay for much greater indigenisation is preferred by govt.

This is in contrast to the mig21, which will be retired in next few years. mk1a is supposed to be there replacement.

This is a calculated decision keeping in mind long term vision. Due to Ukraine war, there is a huge problem of availability of spare parts and we cant even field 50 percent of Su30 right now due to lack of spare parts. Govt, does not want this to happen in future.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

It does make sense to MoD. The govt is pusing for self reliance. And tejas mk2 is set to replace medium category of aircraft in IAF, which will be in service at least till 2035. So few years of delay for much greater indigenisation is preferred by govt.

This is in contrast to the mig21, which will be retired in next few years. mk1a is supposed to be there replacement.

This is a calculated decision keeping in mind long term vision. Due to Ukraine war, there is a huge problem of availability of spare parts and we cant even field 50 percent of Su30 right now due to lack of spare parts. Govt, does not want this to happen in future.

Do u think IAF has the luxury of waiting for MK2 with more possibilities for delays down the road? They dont, they are down the wire and are already facing deficit strength. If anything this shows a massive gap between intentions and the ability to meet domestic requirements indigenously.

In such a scenario the indigenous development, ought to be delinked immediately from MK2 and the person who proposed it within bureaucracy should be isolated lest he does more harm due to his impractical outlook.