‘Eye In The Sky’ Project to ensure 24×7 Early Warning

Presently India’s 3x Il-76 based AWACS has a range of 400 km with 360°coverage. IAF needs ideally a squadron each (6 aircrafts) for its 5x air forces or operational commands.

At the minimum 15 x AWACS must get inducted by the fastest means possible. These will act as a huge force multiplier.

Then we have 3x Netra system which are mounted on Embraer aircrafts but they have only 200 km range and provide only 240° coverage.

Of these each operational Command needs to be provided with at least 9 of the systems. The Defence Ministry has approved the procurement of only six additional Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) systems, which will be an upgraded version of the existing Netra systems currently in service.

Though at a later stage six more advanced versions are likely to be approved. These MK-1A and MK-2 versions are expected to have significantly improved ranges of 240 km+ and other capabilities, thereby enhancing India’s operational readiness in the region.

The new Mk1A AEW&C systems are expected to be mounted on six Embraer aircraft, similar to the existing models, and will significantly improve India’s aerial surveillance capabilities.

These systems are crucial for detecting and tracking various aerial threats, including fighter jets, cruise missiles, and drones, offering faster response times compared to ground-based radar systems.

They also serve as aerial command centres during missions and can monitor maritime activities.

The MK-2 systems will be mounted on Airbus A321 aircraft and are anticipated to feature enhanced radar capabilities.