Indian Army Inducts Indigenous Software Defined Radios, Boosting Defence Self-Reliance
In a major boost to India’s defence indigenisation drive, the Indian Army has signed a contract for the procurement of its first batch of indigenously designed and manufactured Software Defined Radios (SDRs). Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the advanced radios will significantly enhance secure, real-time communication across the Army’s tactical networks.
Next-Generation Battlefield Communication
The SDRs feature high data rates and Mobile Ad hoc Network (MANET) capabilities, ensuring seamless connectivity in dynamic and rugged operational environments. Designed to support network-centric warfare, these systems enable integrated communication among multiple units, improving coordination, situational awareness, and operational effectiveness.
Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) Standard
The induction follows the rollout of the Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) Version 1.0, a national software standard developed by DRDO in collaboration with the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and the Tri-Services. IRSA defines key interfaces, APIs, and waveform standards to ensure interoperability, certification, and scalability across all defence communication systems.
Collaborative Defence Innovation
Initiated in 2021, the IRSA project brought together DRDO, defence PSUs, academia, and private industry. The 2025 release of IRSA 1.0 marks the establishment of a unified national standard for SDR technology, with potential for global export. Senior defence leaders, including DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat and Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, attended the national workshop that marked its launch.
Exam-Oriented Facts
- Indian Army signed its first SDR procurement contract in October 2025.
- SDRs are developed by DRDO and manufactured by BEL.
- IRSA Version 1.0 approved in 2025 as India’s first SDR software standard.
- SDRs equipped with MANET technology for secure battlefield communication.
Strategic Significance
The introduction of indigenous SDRs marks a milestone in the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, strengthening India’s autonomy in critical defence communication technology. By standardising communication protocols across the Army, Navy, and Air Force, the initiative ensures a future-ready, interoperable ecosystem. Beyond self-reliance, India now stands poised to become an export hub for IRSA-compliant SDR systems, underscoring its emergence as a global defence technology leader.
