SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up to transform the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) existing A321 aircraft into sophisticated Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) platforms. The ambitious project, estimated to cost Rs 10,990 crore, is expected to begin in 2025 and culminate in the delivery of the first AEW&C Mark-2 aircraft by 2027-28.
The A321s, previously owned by Air India, are undergoing a significant upgrade to equip them for military service. A new avionics suite is being installed, specifically designed for military aircraft. Additionally, Airbus has appointed an Indian firm to oversee the installation of the main dorsal antenna, which is currently under development and undergoing rigorous computer simulations.
The six Mark-2 aircraft will feature even more advanced AEW&C radars and sensors, providing enhanced capabilities compared to their predecessors. New gallium nitride-based TR (transmit/receive) modules for the radars are also planned which will improve its search and tracking capabilities.
A notable feature of the Mark-2 aircraft is the inclusion of an antenna in the nose, in addition to the main dorsal antenna. This dual-antenna configuration will enable 300-degree radar coverage, significantly improving the aircraft’s situational awareness and detection capabilities.
The technologies developed for the Mark-2 aircraft will also be incorporated into the Mark-1A AEW&C platforms. This will include the addition of a nose-mounted antenna, providing them with the same 300-degree radar coverage.
IAF is looking to have a fleet of 12 Mark-1A and Mark-2 AEW&C Platforms by 2030s which will be in addition to the Three Netra Mark-1 AEW&C and Three Phalcon AWACS.
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