DRDO Develops Indigenous GaN-on-SiC Semiconductor Tech for Next-Gen EW Systems and Military Radars, Confirms MoD Annual Report

defence.in Sep 14, 2026

DRDO Develops Indigenous GaN-on-SiC Semiconductor Tech for Next-Gen EW Systems and Military Radars, Confirms MoD Annual Report

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Sep 14, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed indigenous Gallium Nitride-on-Silicon Carbide (GaN-on-SiC) semiconductor technology, as confirmed in the Ministry of Defence’s 2025-2026 annual report. This breakthrough enables the production of advanced components for next-generation electronic warfare systems, military radars, and unmanned combat platforms. The core innovation is a compact 3.5 by 3 millimetre GaN microchip capable of outputting 30 watts of power at speeds 300 times faster than legacy silicon alternatives. Unlike traditional materials, GaN semiconductors withstand extreme thermal conditions and high voltages essential for modern combat systems. The Ministry verified the fabrication of X-band Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits and S-band power amplifiers. Developed by the Solid State Physics Laboratory, these components utilize homegrown 4-inch SiC wafers. Limited production lines are now operational at the Gallium Arsenide Enabling Technology Centre in Hyderabad, marking a significant step toward self-reliance in critical defence electronics.

💡 Why It Matters

· This achievement neutralizes foreign export restrictions on sensitive semiconductor technology, securing India’s supply chain for critical radar and missile guidance systems.
· By mastering domestic production, the nation eliminates reliance on costly imports, ensuring strategic autonomy for future aerospace and communication infrastructure.

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dharmakshethra.com · Sep 13

Pune-Based N3X Labs Flies Scaled WRATH Prototype as Autonomous Aerial Programme Moves…

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💡 Demonstrating a flying prototype gives N3X concrete flight data to refine autonomous navigation in GPS‑denied zones, accelerating India's indigenous unmanned‑air capabilities.

economictimes.indiatimes.com · Sep 13

DRDO develops indigenous GaN technology for next-gen radars, electronic warfare: Tiny 3.5×3…

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed indigenous Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, marking a significant milestone for India’s defense sector. According to a report from the Defence Ministry, this breakthrough enables the creation of next-generation radars and advanced electronic warfare systems. The core innovation is a compact Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) chip, measuring merely 3.5 by 3 millimeters. Despite its tiny size, the chip delivers up to 30 watts of power, demonstrating high efficiency and performance capabilities suitable for high-frequency applications. This development underscores India’s growing self-reliance in critical defense semiconductor technologies. By mastering GaN MMIC technology domestically, DRDO reduces dependence on foreign suppliers for essential electronic components. The initiative aligns with the broader "Make in India" mission, aiming to strengthen the nation’s strategic autonomy in defense manufacturing. The successful implementation of this indigenous technology ensures that future radar and electronic warfare systems will be powered by homegrown solutions, enhancing operational security and technological sovereignty for the Indian armed forces.

💡 Mastering GaN semiconductor fabrication eliminates critical supply chain vulnerabilities in India's defense electronics. This technological sovereignty ensures that sensitive radar and warfare systems remain secure from foreign dependency or potential export restrictions.

financialexpress.com · Sep 13

From cockpits to radar: 2 stocks building India’s defence electronics backbone

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💡 Indian EMS firms are poised to become critical suppliers for next‑generation defence platforms, reshaping global supply chains and reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers.

jpost.com · Sep 13

AI, jets, drones: IAI chairman Boaz Levy describes future battlefield, air force…

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Digantara Expands Bengaluru Space Hardware Capability With New Cleanroom

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💡 The cleanroom enables Digantara to scale indigenous, high‑precision optics for both orbital surveillance and rapid‑response missile detection, reducing reliance on imported hardware and tightening India’s strategic sensor supply chain.