Indian Army to Procure First Indigenously Manufactured Software Defined Radios

In a landmark step towards defence self-reliance, the Indian Army has signed a contract to procure 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), these state-of-the-art radios will enhance the Army’s secure communication network and operational efficiency in modern, information-driven warfare.

Advanced SDRs to Strengthen Tactical Communication

The new SDRs are equipped with high data rates and Mobile Ad hoc Network (MANET) capabilities, enabling real-time, secure, and resilient communication across diverse terrains. These systems are a crucial component of the Army’s network-centric warfare strategy, allowing seamless coordination among units during tactical operations. According to the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), the deployment of these radios marks a significant milestone in the modernisation of India’s communication infrastructure for the armed forces.

Development of Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA)

The procurement follows the recent launch of the Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) standard 1.0 by DRDO in collaboration with the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and the Tri-Services. IRSA serves as a comprehensive software framework that defines interfaces, APIs, and waveform portability standards for SDRs. It ensures interoperability, certification, and adaptability across multiple defence communication platforms. The IRSA standard was officially unveiled during a national workshop held at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi, earlier this month.

Collaboration and Technological Ecosystem

The IRSA initiative, which began in 2021, involved extensive collaboration among DRDO, defence PSUs, industry experts, and academic institutions. The first approved version in 2025 establishes a unified national standard for software-defined military radios. The initiative’s vision extends beyond national adoption — positioning India as a global hub for interoperable and export-ready SDR technologies. The workshop launching IRSA brought together senior defence officials, including DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, and IIT Gandhinagar Director Rajat Moona.

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 was approved in 2025 as India’s first national SDR software standard.
• SDRs are equipped with MANET capabilities for secure, real-time battlefield communication.

Boost to Indigenous Defence Capabilities

The deployment of indigenous SDRs represents a major stride in the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative in defence technology. By standardising communication architecture and promoting interoperability among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, IRSA lays the foundation for future upgrades and integration of advanced communication technologies. This initiative not only enhances India’s strategic autonomy but also positions the country to export IRSA-compliant SDR systems to friendly foreign nations, expanding its defence technology footprint globally.