TAG: GS-3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
THE CONTEXT:
Recently, the Indian Air Force (IAF), which is facing a shortage of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, is considering purchasing 12 new aircraft.
EXPLANATION:
Key highlights of the AEW&C systems:
- The IAF is planning to acquire 12 new Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircrafts under two different programmes. One of them is a follow-on order of six AEW&C systems mounted on Embraer aircraft.
- IAF already operates three Netra AEW&C systems mounted on Embraer aircrafts.
- These aircrafts will be purchased from Embraer, while DRDO Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS) will be doing the necessary modifications to their equipment.
- Another order pertains to six AEW&C systems under development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) that would be mounted on Airbus A-321 aircraft.
- The AEW&C mounted on the Airbus aircraft would provide 300-degree coverage.
About Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System:
- Airborne Early Warning & Control System (AEW&C) is a force multiplier system that uses advanced radars for detection & tracking enemy/hostile aircrafts/ UAVs etc. from a considerable distance (primarily long-distance).
- The systems use advanced communication equipment to share real-time data with operators onboard and on ground to identify, assess the threat and take actions to guide specific interceptors (fighter jets or surface-to-air missiles) towards the airborne threats to neutralise them.
Significance:
- In Indian context, AEW&C systems can play a vital role to maintain national airspace security, especially along the China and Pakistan border.
Presently, India operates two types of AEW&C systems:
| Netra AEW&C | Phalcon AWACS |
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SOURCE:
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