India has moved ahead in defence self-reliance under the strong leadership of DRDO. The government has approved a ₹20,000 crore project to produce next-generation AWACS India systems. These systems will boost the Indian Air Force’s capabilities. The DRDO will lead the integration and development of these advanced airborne systems.
This project will add six large AWACS aircraft to the IAF fleet. These aircraft will track enemy aircraft and ground sensors at large distances. The AWACS will also act as flying operation control centres during missions.
DRDO’s Leadership in the Project
The DRDO will work with Indian companies to integrate complex systems. Airbus will support this integration on the A321 platform. The DRDO will oversee radar system development and mission control systems. This will enhance local expertise and innovation.
The IAF already has six Airbus aircraft taken from Air India in the past. These aircraft will undergo major structural modifications. A dorsal fin with a radar will be mounted on the aircraft to ensure 360-degree coverage. The DRDO will supervise the integration of these critical systems.
Indigenous Power with DRDO
The project will take about three years to complete. The DRDO will ensure the project follows timelines. The AWACS India project includes a fully indigenous mission control system. It will also feature advanced AESA radars designed by DRDO.
The DRDO will also gain expertise in developing complex airborne systems. This will enhance India’s indigenous defence capabilities. The DRDO has led several such projects to strengthen India’s defence ecosystem.
AWACS India and Netra MkII
The AWACS India programme is also known as Netra MkII. The DRDO is leading this advanced programme. It aims to strengthen India’s air power against adversaries.
The DRDO has received clearance for the prototype stage of the advanced multirole combat aircraft. This complements the AWACS project in boosting India’s defence readiness. It will help India enter the select league of nations with such advanced indigenous capabilities.
Airbus Joins Hands with DRDO
For the first time, an Airbus platform will be used for an AWACS project. This domain was dominated by Boeing earlier. The DRDO will lead the technical development while Airbus will assist with platform integration.
This collaboration will strengthen India’s defence ecosystem. It will help develop local expertise and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. The DRDO will lead the testing and development of the radar systems.
Potential for Future Exports
The DRDO aims to make India a hub for advanced defence systems. The AWACS India project could open doors for exports in the future. It will help position India as a defence technology supplier under DRDO’s vision.
The air force currently operates smaller Netra early warning aircraft. These have been effectively used during conflicts with Pakistan. However, the new systems will offer enhanced range and tracking capabilities.
Challenges with Existing Fleet
The IAF has three IL76 ‘Phalcon’ systems developed with Israel and Russia. These aircraft have faced technical issues and availability concerns. The new DRDO-led AWACS India will address these challenges. It will ensure higher operational availability for the IAF.
Why DRDO’s AWACS Project Matters
The DRDO’s indigenous AWACS will transform India’s aerial defence. It will help India monitor threats in real-time. The advanced radar system will detect enemy movements early. The DRDO will ensure seamless command and control capabilities.
The project will give India the power to track aircraft, ground sensors, and other equipment. This will enhance India’s surveillance capabilities. It will also support decision-making during critical operations.
Contribution to ‘Make in India’
The DRDO will ensure local production of critical components. This aligns with the Make in India vision. The project will generate local employment and skill development.
The DRDO will collaborate with Indian industries to develop advanced systems. This will strengthen India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. It will also boost the local supply chain for high-end defence technologies.
DRDO’s Vision for Future Defence Systems
The DRDO has already developed several advanced defence systems. The AWACS project will be another milestone in its journey. The DRDO aims to make India self-reliant in defence technologies.
The DRDO will ensure that the AWACS project remains on track. It will also ensure the quality of systems developed under this project. The advanced AESA radar systems developed by DRDO will enhance India’s electronic warfare capabilities.
Closing Thoughts
India’s ₹20,000 crore AWACS project under DRDO will redefine its aerial defence capabilities. It will help India strengthen its airspace monitoring and control. The DRDO will empower India with advanced radar and mission systems.
The project will help India join the ranks of countries with indigenous AWACS capabilities. It will also open opportunities for defence exports under DRDO’s leadership.
As the DRDO leads the development, India moves closer to defence self-reliance. The AWACS India project will mark a new chapter in India’s air power journey.
The DRDO will ensure that India remains prepared to handle emerging threats. This will strengthen national security and position India as a leader in defence technology.