Advanced Air Defence Radars: Types, Components and Functions

Context: The Indian Army has begun procuring a new range of advanced Air Defence radars to strengthen its defence network along the northern and western borders.

What is RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging)

RADAR is an electronic system that uses radio waves to detect, locate, and track objects by transmitting signals and analysing the echoes reflected from those objects.

Components

• Transmitter: Sends out radio waves into the surrounding space.
• Receiver: Captures the reflected signals (echoes) when radio waves hit an object.
• Processor/Display Unit: Analyses the reflected signals and shows the location and movement of the target.

Functions

• Finds the direction (angle) of the target.
• Measures the distance (range) of the object.
• Calculates the velocity (speed) of moving targets.
• By monitoring reflections over time, RADAR can predict the trajectory (path) of the target.

Types of Air Defence (AD) Radars

• Surveillance Radars: Continuously scan the skies to detect aerial objects.
  • Provide situational awareness but are not directly connected to weapons.
• Fire Control Radars: Work closely with weapons like surface-to-air missiles or anti-aircraft guns.
  • Lock onto targets and help guide weapons to destroy them.

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