Air Force plans to procure 12 early warning aircraft
- The Indian Air Force (IAF), which is short of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, a critical force multiplier, is looking at the procurement of 12 aircraft under two different programmes.
Highlights:
- The Indian Air Force (IAF), currently facing a shortage of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, is advancing its efforts to procure 12 AEW&C systems through two separate programs.
- These systems serve as critical force multipliers, enhancing the IAF’s capabilities in surveillance, intelligence, and early threat detection.
Follow-On Order of Embraer-Based AEW&C (Netra) Systems:
- The first program focuses on a follow-up order of six AEW&C systems based on the Embraer aircraft. These will be an upgraded version of the Netra AEW&C systems already in service. The key features of the Netra Mk1A systems include:
- Proven Design: The IAF already operates three Netra systems, and the Mk1A version will come with minor modifications, providing a low-risk and high-output solution.
- Collaboration with DRDO: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) will oversee the modifications to the Embraer aircraft.
- Defence Acquisition Council: Approval for this follow-up order is expected soon.
Development of Airbus A-321 Based AEW&C Systems (Mk2):
- The second program focuses on six AEW&C Mk2 systems, which are based on the larger Airbus A-321 aircraft. These systems are currently under development and will offer enhanced capabilities. The key details are:
- Airbus-Based Modification: The A-321 aircraft, previously used by Air India and transferred to the IAF, will undergo extensive modifications.
- DRDO Collaboration: While Airbus is responsible for the aircraft modifications, DRDO is developing the equipment to be mounted on these systems.
- Extended Coverage: The Airbus-based AEW&C systems are expected to provide 300-degree airspace coverage, offering a significant operational advantage.
- Ongoing Negotiations: The complexity of the modifications and associated cost negotiations have delayed the final contract, which is still under discussion.
Existing AEW&C Fleet and Gaps:
- The IAF currently operates a mix of Netra AEW&C systems and Israeli Phalcon AWACS systems. The Phalcon systems, mounted on IL-76 aircraft, provide 360-degree coverage, while the Netra systems offer 240-degree coverage.
- The shortage of AEW&C systems became apparent during the 2019 aerial engagement with Pakistan, following the Balakot airstrike.
Additional AEW&C Procurements and Future Requirements:
- To bridge the gap, the IAF issued a Request for Information (RFI) in July 2024 for the procurement of six additional AEW&C systems from Indian vendors. The requirements for these systems include:
- 360-Degree Coverage: A multimode/multifunctional 4D AESA radar with a minimum range of 400 km.
- Advanced Platform: The AEW&C platform should be a jet aircraft with endurance over eight hours, capable of air-to-air refueling and fuel dumping.
- Operational Altitude: The system should operate at 40,000 feet or higher and be able to detect targets flying at altitudes as low as 30 meters.
Prelims Takeaways:
- Centre for Air Borne Systems
- Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS)