Indian Army inducts DRDO-made software defined radios to boost secure communications

The Indian Army has begun inducting indigenously developed Software Defined Radios (SDRs) built by DRDO and BEL, marking a major step toward defence self-reliance and enhanced interoperability under the new Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) framework

In a major stride toward defence modernization and self-reliance, the Indian Army has initiated the procurement of its first batch of Software Defined Radios (SDRs), designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).

These advanced communication systems will bolster secure, real-time information exchange across Army formations, enhancing coordination, operational efficiency, and resilience in complex battlefield environments. SDRs are a key enabler of modern network-centric warfare, offering secure, adaptable, and interoperable communications.

What makes SDRs critical for modern warfare

Unlike traditional radios limited by fixed hardware configurations, SDRs perform key radio functions — including modulation, demodulation, and signal processing — through software. This allows one device to operate seamlessly across multiple frequency bands and communication standards.

Their software-driven nature enables rapid reconfiguration, improved encryption, and compatibility with future communication technologies, ensuring long-term adaptability. By replacing multiple legacy radios, SDRs also simplify logistics, reduce hardware load, and enhance mobility for troops in the field.

The induction of SDRs follows the formal launch of the Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) Standard 1.0, jointly developed by DRDO, the Tri-Services, and the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS). IRSA provides a unified framework for waveform portability, software interfaces, and standard APIs that ensure interoperability across platforms.

IRSA: The backbone of India’s secure communication ecosystem

IRSA establishes a common software foundation for all radio communication systems used by the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It ensures that SDRs developed by different vendors or for various operational needs can communicate effortlessly.

This framework also promotes certification, standardization, and ease of upgrades, allowing India’s defence forces to incorporate new technologies without full hardware replacements.

By adopting SDRs and the IRSA framework, India is not only strengthening its secure communication infrastructure but also demonstrating the success of its Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in critical defence technologies.

The move positions India among a select group of nations with indigenous, software-driven defence communication standards, ensuring both strategic autonomy and enhanced battlefield readiness.