India Poised to Finalize Deal for Russia’s Advanced “Voronezh” Long-Range Radar System
The Russian-made radar system, "Voronezh" is designed to detect and track ballistic missiles, combat aircraft, and space-based objects from a distance of up to 8,000 kilometers.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — India is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a US$4 billion (RM17.8 billion) defense cooperation agreement with Russia to procure the long-range radar system known as “Voronezh.”
The Russian-made radar system is designed to detect and track ballistic missiles, combat aircraft, and space-based objects from a distance of up to 8,000 kilometers.
The Voronezh radar is expected to enhance India’s ability to identify threats from far away, significantly bolstering its security and defense capabilities.
Described as a “sharp eye in the sky,” the high-powered radar provides early warning against potential dangers, making it a critical step in strengthening the nation’s safety.
Media reports suggest that India is set to reinforce its defense infrastructure with the acquisition of the Voronezh early warning radar, which will aid in detecting potential ballistic missile attacks and other threats.
Developed by the Russian firm Almaz-Antey, the long-range radar system is expected to be installed in Chitradurga, a city in Karnataka.
According to Russian military analyst Alexander Mikhailov, the Voronezh radar system will play a crucial role in detecting ballistic missile threats.
In an interview with Russian media outlet Sputnik, Mikhailov explained that the system works in tandem with Russian satellites to rapidly identify ballistic missile launches.
When a satellite detects a missile launch, it sends a warning to the Voronezh radar, which then verifies whether the threat is genuine.
Mikhailov noted that the primary function of the long-range radar is to confirm actual threats, such as large-scale intercontinental ballistic missile launches.
Additionally, it provides essential data to support missile interception when necessary. In simple terms, the system acts as a secondary layer of defense, ensuring swift and accurate threat detection.
The Voronezh radar is a critical component of Russia’s early warning and ballistic missile defense infrastructure.
It can identify and track a wide range of threats, including ballistic missiles and fighter jets, over distances of up to 8,000 kilometers.
Introduced in 2009 and operational since 2012, these radars are strategically deployed across Russia to provide comprehensive coverage against potential ballistic missile threats from adversaries.
The radar employs phased array technology, enabling rapid electronic beam steering, which makes it more efficient and less reliant on mechanical components compared to earlier systems.
Currently, several Voronezh radar variants are in operation, including the Voronezh-M, Voronezh-DM, and Voronezh-CM, along with other models that combine various wavelength ranges.
These different radar systems can work simultaneously as part of an integrated Missile Attack Early Warning System, generating a comprehensive radar picture of potential missile threats and space activities.
This radar system is essential for providing early warning against ballistic missile threats and is strategically positioned to optimize detection capabilities across various threat vectors. — DSA
