New Delhi: DRDO indigenous technology has marked a major milestone for India’s defence sector. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully demonstrated and implemented advanced indigenous Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor technology for next-generation radars and electronic warfare systems, according to the Ministry of Defence’s Annual Report for FY 2025-26.
The development is expected to strengthen India’s self-reliance in critical defence technologies and reduce dependence on imported high-end semiconductor components used in advanced military systems.
Details of DRDO Indigenous GaN Semiconductor Technology
The Ministry of Defence stated that DRDO has successfully developed advanced components capable of generating, amplifying, receiving and controlling high-frequency signals. These technologies are essential for modern radar systems, electronic warfare platforms, communications equipment, surveillance systems and unmanned platforms.
The breakthrough includes indigenous Gallium Nitride Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) technology designed for applications up to the X-band frequency range.
High-Performance DRDO Indigenous GaN Semiconductor Technology
One of the most significant achievements is the development of an indigenous GaN chip measuring just 3.5 x 3 millimetres. Despite its small size, the chip can deliver up to 30 watts of power and operate at speeds reported to be nearly 300 times faster than conventional silicon-based technology.
This makes it suitable for advanced radar transmitters, electronic warfare jammers and other high-frequency defence applications.
Why Gallium Nitride Technology Is Important
Gallium Nitride (GaN) is considered one of the most important semiconductor technologies for modern defence systems. Compared with traditional silicon components, GaN offers:
- Higher power output
- Better energy efficiency
- Faster signal processing
- Reduced size and weight
- Improved thermal performance
- Greater reliability in harsh environments
These advantages make GaN particularly valuable for radar systems, electronic warfare equipment and secure military communications.
Critical For Future Warfare
Modern military operations increasingly depend on controlling the electromagnetic spectrum. Advanced radars and electronic warfare systems require compact, powerful and high-frequency components.
DRDO officials have repeatedly highlighted the importance of indigenous electronic warfare and radar technologies for future defence preparedness.
Role Of DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory
The latest achievement builds upon years of research conducted by DRDO’s Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL).
The laboratory has developed indigenous processes for manufacturing 4-inch Silicon Carbide (SiC) wafers and fabricating GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs).
These HEMTs can generate power levels of up to 150 watts, while associated MMICs can deliver up to 40 watts for applications operating in X-band frequencies.
Indigenous S-Band Components Also Developed
DRDO has also designed and demonstrated several indigenous S-band GaN-based components, including:
- High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) power bars
- Power amplifiers
- Low-noise amplifiers
- Switch MMICs
These components are key building blocks for advanced defence electronics.
What is the Application of DRDO Indigenous GaN Semiconductor Technology
The new indigenous technology can support a wide range of strategic and military systems.
Next-Generation Radars
The technology can significantly improve radar performance by enabling higher power transmission, greater detection range and enhanced tracking capability.
Electronic Warfare Systems
Electronic warfare systems require powerful signal generation and jamming capabilities. GaN technology helps deliver stronger and more efficient electronic attack and defence functions.
Military Communications
The technology can enhance secure military communication networks by enabling faster and more reliable signal transmission.
Intelligence And Surveillance Systems
Advanced sensors and surveillance platforms can benefit from improved signal processing capabilities offered by GaN-based components.
Hyderabad Facility Strengthens Domestic Production
The Ministry of Defence has also established limited production capability for indigenous GaN-on-SiC MMICs at the Gallium Arsenide Enabling Technology Centre (GAETEC) in Hyderabad. These multifunctional MMICs can support applications across:
- Strategic defence systems
- Aerospace platforms
- Space technologies
- 5G communication networks
- Satellite communication systems
The facility is expected to play an important role in scaling up domestic semiconductor production.
Support Through iDEX Initiative
The development aligns with India’s broader push for defence indigenisation under the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) programme.
Under this initiative, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Agnit Semiconductors Private Limited for the design, development and manufacture of advanced GaN semiconductors for defence applications.
The project aims to reduce reliance on imports and build a strong domestic ecosystem for advanced semiconductor technologies.
Strategic Importance of DRDO Indigenous GaN Semiconductor Technology For India
India has historically relied on imported GaN components because the technology is highly sensitive and subject to export restrictions in many countries. The successful development of indigenous GaN technology is therefore considered a significant strategic achievement.
It strengthens national security, improves technological independence and opens new opportunities for future defence exports. The achievement also supports the government’s larger vision of building a self-reliant defence manufacturing ecosystem under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
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FAQs
Gallium Nitride offers higher power output, faster operation, better efficiency and smaller size compared to silicon, making it ideal for advanced defence electronics.
DRDO has developed indigenous Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor technology and MMIC components for next-generation radars, electronic warfare systems and military communications.
The technology will reduce dependence on imports, strengthen defence self-reliance, improve military capabilities and support future defence exports.
