MOD to consider buying 6 more Embraer jets for IAF

The ministry of defence is set to take up a proposal for acquisition of six more Embraer aircraft from Brazil for conversion to Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) using DRDO developed Netra Mark 1A mounted AESA radars in a move aimed at plugging key capability gaps and building conventional deterrence, people familiar with the matter said.

- Shishir Gupta

NEW DELHI:

The proposal will be brought before the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by defence minister Rajnath Singh shortly, they added, asking not to be named.

In addition, while the government has approved wet lease of one KC-135 mid-air refueller from US-based military contractor Metrea, it has also pressed the pedal on the acquisition of six more mid-air refuellers on the basis of an RFP floated by the acquisition wing of the Defence Ministry. India at present has six Russian refuellers.

The urgent need for AEW&C aircraft was felt because the Pakistan air force has eight SAAB-2000 aircraft fitted with Erieye radar system plus four Chinese ZDK-03 aircraft used for electronic warfare and electronic support measures. PAF also has three Dassault Falcon DA-20 aircraft, which are being used for electronic warfare.