Why in news?
The Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) 1.0 is India's first national standardized software architecture specification for Software Defined Radios (SDRs), officially released in October 2025 by the DRDO in collaboration with the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and the Tri-Services.
 
Key Features of IRSA 1.0

• Standardized software specification for SDRs including uniform APIs and interfaces.
• Portability of waveforms across different hardware platforms such as GPPs, DSPs, and FPGAs.
• Security APIs enabling integration of cryptographic and cybersecurity functions.
• Certification and conformance standards for interoperability across Army, Navy, Air Force.
• Based on and adapted from global SDR standards like SCA 4.1 (NATO).
• Supports a wide range of SDR types, characterized by radio profiles (lightweight to heavy).
• Designed to evolve with future defense communication technologies.

Significance

• Enables joint operations with interoperable military communication radios.
• Enhances self-reliance in defense communication technology.
• Facilitates export potential for IRSA-compliant SDR technologies to friendly nations.
• Encourages a collaborative ecosystem with academia, industry, and defense organizations.
• Positions India as a global standard-setter in SDR software architecture.

This standard represents a pioneering technological milestone for India's defense communication infrastructure under the banner of indigenous innovation and strategic autonomy.

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