Airborne Early Warning and Control Systems
SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The recent Request for Information (RFI) issued by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for six Airborne Early Warning and Control Systems (AEW&CS) has generated considerable interest and confusion. To clarify the situation, we at idrw.org will explain the different AEW&CS programs currently in development, including the Netra Mk1A, Netra MkII, and the long-term Netra MkIII project. While the RFI for six AEW&CS units involves advanced 360-degree surveillance technology, it is distinct from the ongoing Netra programs.
The IAF has received clearance for the procurement of six Netra Mk1A AEW&CS units, which will be based on the ERJ 145 airframe, a proven and reliable platform. The Netra Mk1A will feature an Active Electronic Scanned Array (AESA) radar, similar to the one used in the Netra Mk1, but with enhanced capabilities and upgrades. This radar allows for better detection, tracking, and surveillance, but its limited size on the ERJ 145 platform means that it covers a reduced range compared to future systems.
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