Brief Summary
This video explores India's decision to purchase the Russian OTH radar system despite already possessing the indigenous Swathfish radar. It highlights the limitations of conventional radar due to the Earth's curvature and explains how OTH radar overcomes this by reflecting signals off the ionosphere, significantly extending its range. The video emphasises the importance of OTH radar for India in tracking stealth fighter jets and ballistic missiles, particularly given the advancements in fifth-generation fighter jet technology by neighbouring countries.
- India is purchasing the Russian OTH radar system for $4 billion.
- OTH radar overcomes range limitations by reflecting signals off the ionosphere.
- This extended range is crucial for tracking stealth fighter jets and ballistic missiles.
- Neighbouring countries are rapidly adopting fifth-generation fighter jets, increasing the need for advanced tracking capabilities.
Introduction: The Need for Over-the-Horizon Radar
The video begins by questioning why India is investing $4 billion in the Russian OTH radar system when it already possesses the Swathfish radar, jointly developed with Israel, which is considered the best in its class. The OTH radar, or over-the-horizon radar, is specifically designed to track incoming ballistic missiles with high effectiveness.
Limitations of Conventional Radar and the OTH Solution
Normal radars are limited by the Earth's curvature, restricting their range. The OTH radar overcomes this limitation by reflecting its rays off the ionosphere. This reflection significantly multiplies the radar's range, enabling it to track stealth fighter jets and ballistic missiles from a much greater distance.
Strategic Importance for India
India requires this technology because its neighbouring countries are nearing the deployment of fifth-generation fighter jets before India itself. The OTH radar's enhanced tracking capabilities are therefore crucial for India's defence strategy in the face of these advancements.
