Indra Group leads European SCEPTER project to advance multifunction RF systems and strengthen defence technology capabilities

Indra Group leads European SCEPTER project to advance multifunction RF systems and strengthen defence technology capabilities

(IN BRIEF) Indra Group is strengthening its leadership in multifunction radio frequency systems by leading the European SCEPTER project, funded by the European Defence Fund. The initiative focuses on integrating radar, electronic warfare, and communications into a single advanced system using AESA technology and commercially available components. With contributions from a multinational consortium, the project aims to improve efficiency, reduce system complexity, and enhance operational capabilities in modern defence environments. The use of artificial intelligence, gallium nitride technology, and digital twin methodologies further supports innovation. SCEPTER is positioned as a key step in advancing Europe’s defence autonomy and developing next-generation integrated RF systems.

(PRESS RELEASE) MADRID, 27-Apr-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Indra Group is reinforcing its position in advanced defence technologies by accelerating the development of multifunction radio frequency (RF) systems through its leadership in the European SCEPTER project. This initiative focuses on integrating radar, electronic warfare, and communications capabilities into a unified system architecture for modern defence platforms.

Working through its next-generation sensor innovation centre, Indra is advancing the evolution of multifunction RF systems, a key technology designed to enhance operational efficiency across air, naval, and land domains. These systems aim to replace traditional architectures that rely on separate sensors for each function, delivering a more compact, efficient, and adaptable solution.

The SCEPTER project (European Multifunction System Concept applied to Communications, Electronic Warfare and Radar), funded by the European Defence Fund, is central to this effort. The programme is focused on designing and validating a technology demonstrator built on Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, using commercially available hardware components to streamline development and reduce costs.

Building on earlier initiatives such as the CROWN project, SCEPTER is advancing key technological areas including broadband AESA antennas, direct signal digitisation, and sophisticated resource management systems. These developments are aimed at addressing the growing complexity of the electromagnetic spectrum, where modern defence operations must contend with increasingly congested and contested environments.

By integrating multiple capabilities into a single system, the project seeks to reduce size, weight, and power requirements—factors that are particularly critical for aerospace applications—while enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness.

The initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening Europe’s technological autonomy in defence. It brings together a consortium of 14 organisations from nine countries, including major industry players, research centres, and academic institutions. Among the participants are Leonardo, Thales Group, SAAB, Fraunhofer Society, Hensoldt, and TNO, alongside several other specialised organisations across Europe.

Indra is also responsible for leading the design and validation of the project’s technology demonstrator, which leverages AESA technology and commercial off-the-shelf components to accelerate innovation cycles.

Daniel Gonzalez, Head of R&D Programs in Indra’s Innovation Department, highlighted the importance of SCEPTER in advancing integrated defence capabilities. He noted that the project represents a major step forward in combining radar, communications, and electronic warfare into a single multifunction system designed to meet the demands of future operational environments.

A key differentiator of the SCEPTER initiative is its integration of artificial intelligence and cognitive architectures for managing the electromagnetic spectrum. These technologies will enable systems to dynamically adapt to changing conditions, improving efficiency, resilience, and responsiveness in complex scenarios.

Additional areas of development include ultra-wideband AESA radar systems, high-efficiency RF modules using gallium nitride (GaN) technology, and advanced digital back-end systems. The project also incorporates digital twin methodologies and advanced simulation tools to accelerate system design, testing, and validation.

Ultimately, SCEPTER aims to deliver a fully integrated multifunction RF system capable of performing detection, communication, and electronic protection tasks simultaneously. This capability is expected to significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of European defence forces while reinforcing the region’s strategic independence in critical technologies.

About Indra Group

Indra Group (www.indracompany.com) is the foremost Spanish multinational and one of the leading European companies in the areas of defence and advanced digitization. It is at the forefront of the defence, space, air traffic management, mobility, and transformational technology businesses through Minsait, and it integrates its sovereign AI, cybersecurity, and cyberdefence capabilities into IndraMind. Indra Group is paving the way to a more secure and betterconnected future through innovative solutions, trusted relationships, and the very best talent. Sustainability is an integral part of its strategy and culture in order to overcome current and future social and environmental challenges. At the close of the 2025 financial year, Indra Group posted revenues totaling €4.843 billion and had a local presence in 46 countries
and business operations in over 140 countries.

Indra Group Communication Contact
Toñi García Carballal
magcarballal@indra.es
+34 648 10 29 48

SOURCE: Indra