SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Indigenous Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C), known as NETRA, is on the cusp of achieving Final Operational Configuration (FOC). This significant milestone marks a culmination of nearly seven years of development and testing since the program was granted Initial Operational Configuration (IOC) in 2017.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) plans to achieve FOC for NETRA by the end of this year. This milestone will signify that the system is fully operational and ready to meet the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) strategic requirements.
The IAF currently operates two NETRA Mk1 AEW&CS systems, which are based on the Emb-145 platform. Additionally, there is a third NETRA platform that is jointly operated by the DRDO and the IAF, often used as a testbed for further enhancements.
Earlier this year, the IAF received clearance to procure six more NETRA Mk1A (Advanced) systems. These upgraded variants will incorporate various improvements over their predecessors. Furthermore, the IAF has also been granted clearance to acquire six NETRA MkII systems, which are based on the A321 platform and offer enhanced range and tracking capabilities.
The NETRA AEW&C program is a significant achievement for India’s defence research and development capabilities. It provides the IAF with a crucial surveillance and command and control asset, enhancing its ability to monitor and respond to threats in the air and on the ground. As the program moves towards FOC, India can look forward to a more robust and effective air defence capability.
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