- The Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking to procure Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft under two different programmes to address a critical shortage of such force multipliers.
- Follow-on Order of Six Embraer-based AEW&C Systems:
- These will be similar to the three Netra systems currently in service.
- These systems will be procured from Embraer, with minor equipment modifications by DRDO’s Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS).
- Expected to be cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council soon.
- Development of Six Airbus-based AEW&C Systems (Mk2):
- These will be based on Airbus A-321 aircraft.
- Modifications will be done by Airbus, with DRDO developing the equipment.
- Contract negotiations on cost and configurations are ongoing.
- Existing Capabilities: The IAF operates three Israeli Phalcon AWACS with 360-degree coverage and three Netra AEW&C systems with 240-degree coverage.
Dig Deeper: Read about recently taken steps to strengthen the Indian Air Force.
