Netra, AWACS & Mk II: Inside India's tiered airborne surveillance shield
India is advancing its airborne surveillance capabilities by developing the AEW&C Mk II system using converted Airbus A321 aircraft. This project, involving DRDO and private partners like Adani Defence, aims to bridge the gap between tactical surveillance and strategic command-and-control platforms.
Why it matters
Enhancing airborne surveillance is vital for India's national security, particularly for border monitoring and maintaining a layered air-defense network against regional threats.
India’s airborne surveillance programme has entered a decisive new phase with the signing of two contracts that will anchor development of the AEW&C Mk II system.The Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), DRDO’s nodal laboratory for airborne radar, has tied up with AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) to convert six Airbus A321 aircraft from commercial to “green” configuration. That conversion will form the foundation for larger indigenous airborne warning platforms.In parallel, Adani Defence Systems and Technologies (ADSTL) has been appointed Development‑cum‑Production Partner for the mission systems, signalling a deliberate push to integrate private industry into high‑end defence projects.The AEW&C Mk II is designed to deliver longer endurance, advanced surveillance, secure communications and enhanced command‑and‑control.Operationally, it will allow the Indian Air Force to detect and neutralise threats across extended ranges, strengthening the layered air‑defence network.This development comes as the IAF has also achieved Final Operational Clearance for the Netra AEW&C system on…
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