SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated work on a homegrown Laser Designation Pod (LDP) for its fighter jets. This critical component will significantly enhance the precision strike capabilities of the Indian Air Force. The LDP is a sophisticated sensor-cum-targeting system that detects, recognizes, identifies, and designates surface targets for accurate delivery of precision-guided munitions. It also possesses the capability to transmit real-time target video and imagery to ground stations. Currently, the Indian Air Force relies on the Israeli-supplied LITENING 3 Targeting Pod. The DRDO’s endeavour aims to replace this foreign dependency with an indigenous solution. While the concept for the LDP is finalized, the organization will now focus on technical realization and hardware development before commencing prototype fabrication. Given the complexity of the project, DRDO is likely to collaborate with Indian private-sector companies to expedite development and leverage their expertise. The successful development of the LDP will not only reduce reliance on foreign suppliers but also boost the domestic defence industry.