DRDO Publishes Indian Radio Software Architecture Standard 1.0 for Military Communication Interoperability
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in partnership with the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and the Tri-Services, has officially launched the Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) standard 1.0. This significant development, unveiled during a national workshop on October 7, 2025, at DRDO Bhawan in New Delhi, aims to enhance interoperability in military communication. The IRSA standard serves as a comprehensive software specification for Software Defined Radios (SDR), establishing standardized interfaces and mechanisms for waveform portability, thereby marking a pivotal step towards self-reliance in India’s defence communication technologies.
Significance of the IRSA Standard
The introduction of the IRSA standard is a crucial milestone in India’s efforts to develop indigenous defence communication technologies. This initiative aligns with the country’s vision of creating inter-operable and future-ready SDR solutions tailored for both domestic and international needs. The IRSA framework is designed to evolve alongside operational requirements, ensuring that it remains relevant as technology advances. By establishing a standardized architecture for SDRs, the IRSA initiative not only enhances military communication capabilities but also positions India as a potential leader in the global SDR market.
Workshop Highlights and Collaborative Efforts
The national workshop provided a platform for various stakeholders, including representatives from the Indian Armed Forces, the Department of Defence Production (DDP), Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), industry leaders, and academic institutions. Discussions focused on the journey of IRSA, its technical aspects, and future directions. Participants explored collaboration opportunities, pilot projects, and pathways for adopting the IRSA standard. The event underscored a collaborative approach to developing indigenous communication technologies, fostering partnerships between the military and civilian sectors.
Leadership and Vision for the Future
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of Defence Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO, served as the Chief Guest at the workshop. He was joined by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and Dr. Rajat Moona, Director of IIT Gandhinagar, who were the Guests of Honour. Their presence highlighted the importance of this initiative and the commitment to advancing India’s defence capabilities. The vision for IRSA extends beyond national standards; it aims to establish a global benchmark for SDR technology, enabling India to export IRSA-compliant solutions to allied nations.
Origins and Development of IRSA
The IRSA initiative originated in 2021, driven by the recognition of the critical role of SDRs in modern military communication. A core technical team from DRDO began working on the project in 2022, collaborating with the Integrated Defence Staff and military services to gather operational and user requirements. Following extensive reviews and stakeholder consultations, IRSA Version 1.0 was approved by the High-Level Advisory Committee in 2025. This approval marks the establishment of India’s first national specification for a standardized software architecture for SDRs, with aspirations to set a global standard in this field.
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