Indian Navy asks to minimize the RCS of weapon systems to improve the stealth capabilities of warships

Source : IgMp Bureau

                                                

The Indian Navy is intensifying its efforts to enhance the stealth features of its warships by concentrating on reducing the Radar Cross Section (RCS) of exposed weapon systems and sensor equipment. This strategic move is aimed at maintaining an edge in naval warfare, urging design teams to collaborate with suppliers of weapons and sensors to minimize the RCS of the equipment mounted on Indian naval vessels.

This push is part of a broader initiative to integrate advanced stealth technologies into warships, particularly those being developed under the "Make in India" initiative. By reducing the chances of ships being detected by enemy radar, the Navy aims to increase the combat survivability and operational effectiveness of its fleet in future maritime conflicts.

A key focus area involves developing stealth shields for both the main and secondary guns on warships. This development is crucial for lowering the overall RCS of naval vessels. These shields are being designed in partnership with Indian public sector undertakings (PSUs), using advanced materials and designs to ensure a minimal radar signature without compromising the operational capabilities of the weapons.

Since main and secondary guns tend to have larger radar signatures due to their size and position on ships, the Navy's goal is to mask these components to make its ships harder to detect, especially during high-stakes operations where stealth is a critical factor.

Aligned with the Navy's goal of self-reliance, it is also prioritizing the development of indigenous weapon systems that feature reduced RCS. Suppliers in India have been asked to focus on stealth as a key design principle for future weapons that will be integrated into new warships. This has significantly influenced the development of critical systems, such as Vertical Launch Systems (VLS).

One prominent example is the Vertical Launch – Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) system, a key part of the Navy’s air defense strategy. The system has undergone multiple design adjustments to ensure its radar signature is minimized. These changes make sure the missile launch system is not only effective but also contributes to maintaining a low overall RCS for the ship.

In modern naval warfare, stealth has become an increasingly decisive factor. Lower RCS allows warships to operate more covertly, giving them the advantage of carrying out missions while staying undetected by enemy radars. This capability is especially crucial in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), where the Indian Navy needs to maintain a strategic advantage over adversaries as it secures vast maritime territories.

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