Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Medium Range Electro Optic (MREO), and Long-Range Electro Optic (LREO) payloads have recently been seen being carried by India's indigenous Rustom II medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has created these cutting-edge payloads, which are essential for precision targeting, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

LRDE, a company renowned for its proficiency in airborne image sensors, has successfully created vital technologies to increase the functionality of UAVs. The development of a short-range imaging radar in the Ku band specifically for the Rustom II UAV is one noteworthy accomplishment. SAR functions as an all-weather imaging technology, ensuring dependable performance throughout both day and night operations, in contrast to its electro-optical and thermal cousins. SAR becomes an essential tool for defence applications because of this.

High-resolution pictures and data on moving targets on the ground are provided by the SAR-equipped Rustom II UAV, which is crucial for guiding precision-guided weapons and missiles. The system's main capabilities include ground moving target (GMT) mode, which can identify ground vehicles at a maximum range of 40 kilometres away, spotlight mode imaging with resolutions of 1m and 0.6m, and strip map mode imaging with resolutions of 6m and 3m.

The Rustom II UAV's incorporation of cutting-edge image sensors marks an important development for India's defence capabilities. The UAV's SAR payload gives it better surveillance and reconnaissance skills, enabling it to acquire intelligence in real time and with accuracy. SAR imaging and target data can direct military operations by giving precise information for identifying enemy assets or directing missiles towards their intended targets.