IIT Kanpur has introduced a textile-based broadband metamaterial microwave absorber, named Anālakṣhya Metamaterial Surface Cloaking System (MSCS), designed to enhance stealth capabilities in defense applications. The system reportedly achieves near-perfect wave absorption across a broad spectrum, aiding in countering Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging and providing protection against radar-guided missiles.
The technology was developed by a team led by professors S. Anantha Ramakrishna (Physics), Kumar Vaibhav Srivastava (Electrical Engineering), and Janakarajan Ramkumar (Mechanical Engineering) at IIT Kanpur. The team included researchers Gagandeep Singh, Kajal Chowdhary, and Abhinav Bhardwaj, along with other PhD scholars.
According to IIT Kanpur, the Anālakṣhya MSCS underwent extensive laboratory and field testing between 2019 and 2024, demonstrating its effectiveness under diverse conditions.
The system was unveiled at an event attended by defense and academic leaders, including representatives from the Indian Air Force and private defense entities. IIT Kanpur’s statement highlights that this development aligns with efforts to advance indigenous defense technologies.
This innovation marks a new application of metamaterial technology, offering potential strategic benefits for modern warfare and surveillance operations.