New Delhi: DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar on electronic warfare has brought renewed attention to the growing role of electronic warfare in modern military operations. Organised by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the two-day seminar focuses on advanced defence technologies such as electronic warfare, artificial intelligence, digital twins, radar systems, and mission-critical engineering.
The event highlights how future wars will increasingly be fought not only with weapons but also through control of the electromagnetic spectrum.
DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar Brings Defence Experts Together
The NETRA-2026 seminar opened on August 11 with participation from more than 200 experts and professionals. The event brings together representatives from the Indian Armed Forces, DRDO, ISRO, defence public sector companies, academia, and private industry.
The seminar is being organised by DRDO in collaboration with the Association of Old Crows India Chapter and industry partners.
DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar: Focus on Electronic Warfare and Emerging Technologies
The seminar focuses on several critical technologies shaping future battlefields. These include:
- Electronic warfare
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Digital twin technology
- Radar systems
- Radio-frequency technologies
- FPGA design
- Mission-critical systems engineering
A hands-on workshop is also scheduled to help participants understand the practical applications of these technologies.
DRDO Highlights Changing Nature of Warfare
Speaking at the event, B K Das, Director General (Electronics and Communication Systems), DRDO, said modern warfare is rapidly evolving. He explained that future conflicts are increasingly witnessing asymmetric attacks, drone threats, and technology-driven operations that can change the economics of warfare.
According to him, military success will depend not only on advanced weapons but also on the ability to develop cost-effective systems in large numbers.
DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar: Electronic Warfare Becoming a Key Battlefield Domain
Electronic warfare is becoming one of the most important aspects of modern military operations. Military forces now rely heavily on radar, communications, navigation systems, sensors, and networked platforms.
Electronic warfare allows armed forces to detect, disrupt, deceive, or deny an adversary’s use of the electromagnetic spectrum while protecting their own systems.
Why Electronic Warfare Matters
Modern battlefields are increasingly dependent on electronic systems. An adversary can attempt to:
- Jam communications
- Disrupt navigation systems
- Interfere with radar operations
- Confuse sensors
- Deceive electronic networks
These actions can reduce the effectiveness of military platforms without physically destroying them.
Digital Twins Gain Attention at DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar
One of the major themes of the seminar is the use of digital twin technology. A digital twin is a virtual model of a real system that allows engineers to test, simulate, and improve designs before physical deployment.
Experts believe this approach can reduce development costs, improve reliability, and speed up the deployment of defence technologies.
Layered Defence Architecture for Future Wars
DRDO officials also stressed the importance of building a layered defence architecture. Such a system combines:
- Missiles
- Radar networks
- Electronic warfare systems
- Directed-energy weapons
- Drones
This integrated approach can improve battlefield effectiveness and strengthen national security.
DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar: Industry and Defence Collaboration
The seminar also highlights the importance of cooperation between government agencies, defence companies, research institutions, and industry partners.
Such collaboration is considered essential for developing advanced indigenous defence technologies and supporting India’s long-term strategic goals.
Why DRDO NETRA-2026 Seminar Is Important
NETRA-2026 reflects India’s growing focus on next-generation warfare technologies. The discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions are expected to help strengthen indigenous capabilities in electronic warfare, AI-driven defence systems, and advanced communications technologies.
The event also supports the government’s vision of building a technologically advanced and self-reliant defence ecosystem.
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