The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Uttam AESA radar has demonstrated a significant 25% performance advantage over the Israeli EL/M-2052 radar, confirming India’s capability in indigenous defense technology. Designed for the Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft, the Uttam features 980 Transmit-Receive Modules (TRMs) and has successfully completed over 125 flight trials, showcasing superior detection ranges and multi-target tracking capabilities. While the initial batches of Tejas Mk1A will utilize the EL/M-2052 due to certification timelines, the Uttam’s successful trials position India for potential exports and reduce dependency on foreign technology. This development not only enhances the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness but also underscores India’s growing self-reliance in critical defense systems, bolstering its position in the global defense market.