On 25 June 2026 DRDO handed over the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) certificate for the indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system to the Indian Air Force in Bengaluru.
System and Development
- Platform: Mounted on a modified Embraer EMB-145 regional jet.
- Developer consortium: DRDO (Centre for Airborne Systems and Aeronautics/Electronics clusters), IAF and Indian industry partners.
- Development span: Programme execution over about two decades; Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) granted in 2017.
Sensors & Capabilities
- Radar type: Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar with electronically steered beams for rapid multi-target tracking.
- Coverage & range: Azimuth coverage ~240–270°; detection range up to ~375 km.
- Roles: Detect, track and identify airborne and maritime contacts; airborne surveillance and battle management.
Operational Use & Certification
- Squadron: Operated by No. 200 Squadron from Bhisiana, Punjab.
- Operational deployment: Used in operational missions since IOC period.
- FOC meaning: Completion of user trials and system validation; authorises full operational service in certified configuration.
Upgrades & Future Programmes
- Netra Mk‑1A: Six upgraded EMB‑145s with improved electronic‑warfare systems and longer‑range radar.
- Netra Mk‑2: CCS‑cleared proposal for six Airbus A321‑based platforms; estimated cost ~Rs 19,000 crore; radar with >500 km detection planned.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- DRDO role: Programme led by DRDO’s Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bengaluru.
- AEW&C definition: Airborne Early Warning and Control provides extended aerial situational awareness and command-and-control functions.
- CCS: Cabinet Committee on Security approves major defence procurement and platform upgrades like Netra Mk‑2.