DRDO Completes Successful Integration of SWOTH Over-The-Horizon Radar for Enhanced Maritime Surveillance
India has taken a significant leap forward in maritime surveillance with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully completing the system integration and testing of its advanced Surface Wave Over-The-Horizon Radar (SWOTH-Radar). This development is a major breakthrough in long-range coastal monitoring and strategic early-warning technology.
Breakthrough in Beyond-Horizon Detection
Traditional radars are limited by the Earth's curvature, but the SWOTH-Radar employs high-frequency surface wave propagation, allowing electromagnetic waves to traverse along the sea surface. This capability extends detection and tracking of targets up to 500 kilometers, surpassing the typical visual and radar line-of-sight limitations.
The radar is configured in a bi-static arrangement with separate transmitter and receiver stations located along the coast. This setup boosts detection sensitivity, minimizes background interference, and is particularly suited for complex maritime environments.
Detects Low-Flying and Stealth Targets
A key advantage of SWOTH is its ability to detect stealth platforms that often evade conventional radars by reducing radar cross-section. The radar’s use of long-wavelength HF signals, coupled with advanced signal processing, enables it to identify low-observable vessels and aircraft, including those that fly at low altitudes over maritime regions.
The system remains operational under all weather conditions and is highly resistant to electronic countermeasures, ensuring consistent maritime domain awareness even in contested areas.
Strategic Edge in the Indian Ocean Region
SWOTH-Radar provides continuous surveillance capabilities, filling the gap between short-range coastal radars and expensive airborne early-warning systems. It offers a low-vulnerability, cost-effective solution for ongoing monitoring of maritime traffic, incursions, and potential threats.
The successful testing by DRDO is a pivotal step towards operational deployment, enhancing India’s ability to protect vital sea lanes, monitor grey-zone activities, and improve naval situational awareness in the Indian Ocean Region.
This indigenous radar development marks a significant advancement tailored to India’s strategic requirements, positioning the nation at the forefront of maritime surveillance technologies prepared to counter evolving threats, including stealth and future hypersonic platforms.
