SOURCE: AFI
Today marked a significant milestone in India’s defense modernization efforts with the display of the model of the DRDO-Airbus A321 NETRA Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) Mk2 at the inauguration of the final assembly line for the C295 aircraft in Vadodara, Gujarat. This event underscores the growing collaboration between the Indian defense sector and global aerospace leaders, as India seeks to enhance its indigenous capabilities in advanced military technology.
The NETRA AEW&C Mk2 program represents a critical advancement in India’s airborne surveillance and command capabilities. Designed to meet the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) operational needs, the AEW&C Mk2 will feature a suite of advanced radars and sensor systems that enable it to detect and track airborne and maritime threats effectively.
At the heart of the AEW&C Mk2’s capabilities is the advanced radar system, which will include a derivative of the Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. The Uttam radar, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is designed for enhanced detection, tracking, and engagement of multiple targets simultaneously, significantly boosting situational awareness for Indian military operations.
Airbus will leverage its state-of-the-art facilities in Spain to carry out modifications on the A321 aircraft. These modifications will include the integration of various subsystems necessary for the NETRA AEW&C Mk2’s operations. Once these modifications are complete, the aircraft will be sent back to India for further integration of the indigenous systems developed by DRDO.
With the ongoing advancements in radar technology and airborne systems, the NETRA AEW&C Mk2 is expected to significantly enhance India’s surveillance capabilities, providing the military with a crucial edge in both offensive and defensive operations. The integration of these advanced systems into the IAF’s fleet will not only bolster national security but also contribute to regional stability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.