The DRDO AEW&CS (Airborne Early Warning and Control System) is an advanced airborne surveillance system developed by India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and produced by the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS). It is considered one of the most important acquisitions for the Indian Air Force (IAF) due to its capabilities in providing early warning, surveillance, and control of airborne and surface-based threats.

The DRDO AEW&CS is based on the Embraer EMB-145 aircraft, which is extensively modified to house the necessary radars, communication systems, and other equipment needed for the system to function. The aircraft is equipped with a rotating Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which is capable of detecting and tracking multiple airborne and surface-based targets simultaneously. The radar has a range of up to 400 km and can operate at altitudes of up to 30,000 feet, providing the IAF with a significant advantage in detecting and tracking incoming threats.

In addition to the radar, the DRDO AEW&CS is equipped with a sophisticated communication system that allows it to share real-time information with other airborne and ground-based assets. This makes it an integral part of the IAF’s network-centric warfare capabilities and enhances the situational awareness of its pilots and ground controllers.

The DRDO AEW&CS also features a self-protection suite, which includes electronic countermeasures, chaff and flare dispensers, and other defensive measures. This ensures the aircraft’s survivability in the event of an attack and allows it to continue providing critical surveillance and control functions.

The acquisition of the DRDO AEW&CS has been a significant boost to the IAF’s overall capabilities, particularly in the area of air defense. It has significantly enhanced the IAF’s ability to detect and track incoming threats, providing vital early warning and enabling faster response times. The system has been used extensively in recent conflicts, including the 2019 Balakot airstrikes and the ongoing standoff with China in the Ladakh region.

A new version of DRDO AEW&CS named Netra II is being developed on Airbus A319 aircraft that are acquired by IAF and are being modified to carry the radar on its top. This new version will have significantly improved capabilities, as the A319 platform is a big platform that allows better space for equipment to be mounted. A319-based AEW&CS will also have a better range and more powerful radar.

In conclusion, the DRDO AEW&CS is an advanced airborne surveillance system that has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Indian Air Force. Its capabilities in providing early warning, surveillance, and control of airborne and surface-based threats make it one of the most important acquisitions for the IAF. Its continued development and deployment will be critical to ensuring India’s national security in the years to come.