New Delhi: To boost the Indian Air Force's 'eye in the sky' capabilities, the final operational clearance (FOC) for India's indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, often described as a 'flying radar station', is scheduled for June 25.
DRDO Announces Milestone
On Friday, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which developed the Netra system, announced on X: "A ceremony for the declaration of FOC of Netra AEW&C system is planned on 25 June 2026 at Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bengaluru. The FOC is a major milestone achieved for an indigenous system of systems such as the Netra AEW&C."
FOC represents the final phase of certification, where an aircraft or military system is declared fully mission-ready after completing all required trials and validations.
Understanding AEW&C Systems
An AEW&C is a heavily modified aircraft equipped with a powerful radar that continuously scans the skies and seas for potential threats. It functions as a specialized airborne radar and command center, detecting incoming projectiles, ships, and aircraft at long ranges, identifying friend from foe, and directing friendly fighters in real-time.
Netra AEW&C Programme Details
DRDO spearheaded India's indigenous airborne surveillance with the Netra AEW&C programme, which integrates mission avionics on the Embraer EMB-145 aircraft platform. Three aircraft have already received initial operational clearance (IOC) after completing development trials with user participation. During the June 25 ceremony, these aircraft will receive their final clearance.
India's Existing AEW&C Capabilities
Besides the Netra AEW&C, India also operates three Russian IL-76-based Phalcon Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS). The Phalcon system, mounted on Russian IL-76 aircraft with improved engines, is equipped with advanced radar capable of detecting airborne and surface threats at long ranges, including cruise missiles and aircraft.
Future Procurement Plans
In March 2025, the defence ministry approved the procurement of six additional AEW&C systems, which will be an upgraded version of the existing fleet.
Regional Context
Pakistan operates nine state-of-the-art Saab 2000 Erieye AEW&Cs, in addition to four Chinese ZDK03 Karakoram Eagle AWACS.
