NETRA - EYES IN THE SKY

Indian AEW&C Platforms to Bolster Network-Centric Air Operations

- GROUP CAPTAIN D.K. PANDEY (RETD)

INDIA IS ACTIVELY WORKING TOWARDS DEVELOPING AND deploying modern indigenous airborne early-warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, often referred to as “Eyes in the Sky”. This would significantly improve its surveillance and detection capabilities.

The AEW&C is a highly sought-after force multiplier that is highly valued by military forces around the globe. Modern AEW&C/AWACS systems comprise various sensors, communications, and computing systems, contributing to their comprehensive Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities. The platform, in dense airspace, will minimise the situational awareness fog. Hence, it enhances the direction and interception capabilities of the friendly fighters during air combat with enemy jets. The Radar, the primary sensor of any airborne system, is mainly valued for its degree of capability to detect moving targets at long distances in all weather conditions and present a clutter-free picture. DRDO has successfully developed a fully indigenous primary radar system for the AEW&C system. This remarkable achievement showcases the country’s expertise in designing and manufacturing the complete system, including its electronics and antenna array. The critical electronics, such as the Transmit Receive module, etc, have been meticulously crafted, developed by DRDO and produced by an industry partner.

EVOLUTION OF INDIAN AEW&C