UPSC Express

In focus: EMISAT

• EMISAT is an electronic intelligence satellite developed by ISRO and DRDO.
• The 435-kg EMISAT was developed under project KAUTILYA of Defence Electronics Research Laboratory of DRDO.
• It is basically designed to intercept signals from enemy radars in order to develop effective jamming techniques to counter the enemy radar.
• Satellite-based electronic intelligence will augment the armed forces to counter radars.
• It will be launched in a highly elliptical orbit to maximize the dwell time over specific signal recording area.

In brief: Electronic intelligence (ELINT)

• Electronic Intelligence basically involves interception of signals from radars.
• Once the signal is intercepted, the ELINT system collects data related to radar signals including its bandwidth, intensity, location from where it is emitted etc creating what is called a RF signature. (Radio frequency)
• Once the RF signature is created it can be used for locating and identifying the radar in subsequent encounters.
• It can also help in developing appropriate jamming techniques to counter the radar.