The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and the Tri-Services, has formally released the Indian Radio Software Architecture (IRSA) Standard 1.0 – a major milestone toward achieving self-reliance and interoperability in India’s military communication systems. The standard was unveiled on Monday during a National Workshop on IRSA, held at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi.
IRSA 1.0 is a comprehensive software architecture standard for Software Defined Radios (SDRs) that defines uniform interfaces, APIs, execution environments, and waveform portability mechanisms. The framework aims to ensure waveform portability, interoperability, certification, and conformance across SDR platforms used by the Indian Armed Forces.
The introduction of IRSA marks a defining step in India’s pursuit of Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence communication technologies. Designed to evolve with emerging operational needs, IRSA lays a robust foundation for integrating next-generation communication technologies while fostering a unified ecosystem of indigenous SDR development.
The national workshop showcased the journey, technical overview, and ecosystem roles of IRSA, providing a collaborative platform for discussions among industry, academia, and the armed forces. Participants explored potential pilot projects, adoption pathways, and innovation opportunities in SDR technology.
The event witnessed participation from representatives of the Indian Armed Forces, Department of Defence Production (DDP), Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), industry, academia, and research institutions, reflecting a comprehensive and coordinated effort to strengthen indigenous communication systems.
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, was the Chief Guest at the event, while Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and Dr. Rajat Moona, Director, IIT Gandhinagar, graced the occasion as Guests of Honour. The workshop was organised under the guidance of Dr. B.K. Das, Director General (ECS), DRDO.
About IRSA
The IRSA initiative began in 2021, when the critical role of SDRs in modern warfare underscored the need for a national software standard. A core technical team led by DRDO initiated work in 2022, engaging closely with IDS and the armed services to define operational and user requirements. Following multiple reviews and stakeholder consultations, IRSA Version 1.0 was approved by the High-Level Advisory Committee (HLAC) in 2025.
As India’s first national software specification for SDRs, IRSA aims to serve as a global benchmark in defence communication architecture, enabling India not only to meet its domestic requirements but also to export IRSA-compliant SDR solutions to friendly nations, strengthening international defence cooperation.
