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Illustration for: Mistral Wins Rs 100 Cr Radar Subsystem Order for Low‑Altitude UAV Surveillance

Mistral Wins ₹100 Cr Radar Order for Low‑Altitude UAV Surveillance

Mistral Wins Rs 100 Cr Radar Subsystem Order for Low‑Altitude UAV Surveillance

2 min read

Mistral, the defence‑electronics arm of AXISCADES, has landed a ₹100 crore contract to supply a radar subsystem aimed at monitoring low‑altitude air traffic. The award comes as India tightens its focus on counter‑UAV capabilities, a sector that has seen heightened interest after recent incursions by unmanned platforms. While the deal’s headline figure underscores the market’s appetite for homegrown solutions, the specifics of the hardware have drawn particular attention.

The order calls for rugged, liquid‑cooled processing units built to endure the harsh conditions typical of field deployments. By securing this contract, Mistral not only expands its product portfolio but also gains a clearer picture of future revenue streams tied to the Ashwini radar programme. The following details explain how the equipment will be used and why the company views the project as a strategic foothold.

The systems will support low-altitude surveillance against UAVs, helicopters and fighter aircraft under the Ashwini radar programme. Mistral will deliver liquid-cooled processing units designed for radar operations under demanding field conditions. The company said the order provides revenue visibility over the delivery period and strengthens its position in defence electronics programmes led by DRDO and BEL. Commenting on the order, C Manikandan, CEO of Mistral, said, "LLTR Ashwini programme win reflects Mistral's continued commitment to supporting India's defence indigenisation initiatives and contributing critical technologies to next-generation military systems." AXISCADES said the win builds on its long-standing work with defence forces, laboratories and public sector units across radar, avionics and electronic warfare domains.

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The deal adds a notable line to Mistral’s portfolio. Will the units live up to expectations? Yet, the true impact on India’s low‑altitude surveillance capability will depend on how the liquid‑cooled processing units perform in the field, a factor not yet demonstrated.

Over the next two years the company will deliver signal and data processing units along with spares, supporting the Ashwini radar’s aim to track UAVs, helicopters and fighter aircraft at low altitude. Because the Ashwini system is indigenous, the order also offers AXISCADES a clearer revenue outlook, something the firm highlighted in its statement. However, the extent to which these subsystems will integrate smoothly with DRDO and BEL’s broader radar architecture remains uncertain.

If the units meet the demanding conditions described, they could reinforce the programme’s operational readiness. Conversely, any integration challenges could temper the expected benefits. In any case, the contract marks a concrete step for Mistral, though the longer‑term results are still to be observed.

Stakeholders will likely monitor performance metrics closely as the system moves from testing to deployment.

Further Reading

Common Questions Answered

What is the value and purpose of the contract Mistral secured under the Ashwini radar programme?

The contract is worth ₹100 crore and mandates Mistral to supply a radar subsystem that will monitor low‑altitude air traffic, specifically targeting UAVs, helicopters and fighter aircraft as part of India’s Ashwini radar programme. This deal reflects India’s push for indigenous counter‑UAV solutions and provides a significant revenue stream for Mistral over the delivery period.

Which specific hardware component is Mistral delivering for the low‑altitude surveillance system, and why is it significant?

Mistral will deliver liquid‑cooled processing units designed for radar operations in demanding field conditions. The advanced cooling ensures reliable signal and data processing even in high‑temperature environments, which is critical for sustained low‑altitude surveillance missions.

How does the ₹100 crore order enhance Mistral’s position with Indian defence agencies such as DRDO and BEL?

The ₹100 crore order gives Mistral predictable revenue and showcases its ability to meet stringent defence‑electronics specifications, thereby bolstering its reputation with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Strengthening these relationships positions Mistral for future collaborations on Indian defence programmes.

Over what timeframe will Mistral deliver the radar subsystem and associated spares, and what capability is the Ashwini radar expected to achieve?

Mistral is slated to deliver the signal and data processing units, together with spares, over the next two years. The Ashwini radar system aims to track UAVs, helicopters and fighter aircraft operating at low altitude, significantly enhancing India’s counter‑UAV surveillance capability.