The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in stealth technology with the launch of its Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System (Anālakṣhya MSCS). This cutting-edge system, designed to counter modern surveillance technologies like Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), is set to redefine India’s defence and national security capabilities.

Developed by a multidisciplinary team at IIT Kanpur, including Prof Anantha Ramakrishna (Department of Physics), Prof Kumar Vaibhav Srivastava (Department of Electrical Engineering), and Prof J Ramkumar (Department of Mechanical Engineering), the Anālakṣhya MSCS offers near-perfect wave absorption across a wide electromagnetic spectrum. This revolutionary metamaterial can render objects virtually invisible to SAR imaging, a vital tool in military surveillance.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by prominent defence and academic leaders. Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force’s Central Air Command, lauded the technology, stating, “This revolutionary camouflage technology represents a bold leap forward in countering one of the greatest operational challenges militaries face today: the pervasive and precise reach of modern intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.”

Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar further emphasised the global importance of the system, noting,

“In technologically contested environments, battlefield transparency can slow down operations, and this material provides the edge we need to stay ahead.”

The Anālakṣhya MSCS is a significant advancement in multispectral stealth technology. It addresses modern warfare challenges by offering comprehensive protection against radar-guided missiles and surveillance systems. Its broadband microwave absorption capabilities shield military assets from detection across diverse frequency ranges, making it indispensable for high-stakes military operations.

The project was a collaborative effort involving IIT Kanpur’s faculty and research students, including Gagandeep Singh, Dr Kajal Chowdhary, and Dr Abhinav Bhardwaj. The material underwent rigorous testing in laboratory and field conditions over five years (2019–2024) to ensure its effectiveness in various operational scenarios. Remarkably, over 90% of the materials used are indigenous, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.

IIT Kanpur Director Prof Manindra Agrawal expressed pride in the achievement, saying, “IIT Kanpur’s commitment to advancing defence technology is exemplified by this remarkable material with exceptional stealth properties. We are confident that this innovation will have a lasting impact on strengthening our defence forces.”

Lt General Cherish Mathson highlighted the project’s foresight, stating; “When we realised in 2019 that the biggest threat to military movements was SAR, it was clear that this ground-breaking invention at IITK was the answer. This innovation aligns perfectly with the vision of our Prime Minister, showcasing India’s technological prowess.”

The technology has been licensed to Meta Tattva Systems Pvt. Ltd., which will oversee its manufacturing and deployment. The Indian Armed Forces are already in the process of acquiring the system, recognising its critical role in enhancing operational efficiency and national security.

The Anālakṣhya MSCS represents a significant leap in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, aligning with the government’s “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives. It also showcases the successful collaboration between academia, the defence sector, and private industry, solidifying India’s position as a global leader in defence technology innovation.