India's defence lab unveils Radar Absorbing Paint (RAP) for enhanced stealth capabilities

India's Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur has developed Radar Absorbing Paint (RAP) aimed at enhancing the stealth capabilities of the Indian Air Force's fighter aircraft and strategic platforms. The breakthrough was announced by the lab's team led by Dr Nagarajan, according to a report by ANI on Sunday, November 19, 2023.

Application and benefits; addressing Radar Cross Section (RCS) reduction

The RAP, a polyurethane-based paint infused with magnetic functional filler material, aims to diminish the radar signature of military assets. Nagarajan highlighted its successful application on Indian Air Force platforms, including the MiG-29 fighter jets, with promising results that significantly reduce detection by enemy radars.

This paint, as per a previous DRDO statement, addresses the critical aspect of Radar Cross Section (RCS) reduction by targeting the scattering centres of complex-shaped targets. By attenuating the back-reflected radar energy, the RAP effectively curtails the RCS, conferring enhanced stealth capabilities upon military assets.

Properties and composition

Key to its effectiveness is not only its radar absorption properties across desired frequency bands but also its minimal weight and thin composition, crucial for maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. Moreover, as per the available information, the paint has resistance to environmental factors, withstanding extreme temperatures, hydraulic oil, water, air turbine fuel, and thermal shock cycling. It has already demonstrated sustained resilience against aerodynamic vibrations, ensuring its reliability on airborne and land-based strategic targets.

Effectiveness and microwave absorption

The developed RAP exhibits microwave absorption, surpassing 90 per cent, making it a ‘game-changer’ in the realm of stealth technology for India and the IAF. Its room temperature drying and curing properties facilitate on-field application, while its adaptability to various surfaces, including aluminium alloys and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP )composites, without compromising structural integrity, showcases its versatility.

One of the aspects of this ‘cutting-edge technology’ is its ease of application using a simple spray gun, ensuring expedited and efficient coverage on complex surfaces, such as the fuselage of designated aircraft.