India Greenlights ₹20k Cr DRDO AWACS Project
The Indian government has approved a ₹20,000 crore project to develop six indigenous Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. The project will be led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and will significantly boost India’s aerial surveillance and early warning capabilities.
The new AWACS platforms will be built by modifying Airbus A321 aircraft, which will be fitted with indigenous 360-degree active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. These systems will allow the Indian Air Force (IAF) to detect and track enemy aircraft, missiles, and ground-based threats at long ranges, acting as airborne command centers during operations.
Indigenous Push in Defence Technology
This project marks a key step in India’s self-reliance initiative for critical defence systems. Unlike the earlier Netra systems based on smaller Embraer jets with limited capability, the new AWACS will offer extended range, larger payload capacity, and more mission endurance. DRDO’s mission systems, radar technology, and software will all be developed indigenously, while Airbus will assist with aircraft structural modifications and radar housing.
The platforms are expected to be ready within three years. Once deployed, these aircraft will significantly improve the IAF’s situational awareness, especially in conflict-prone zones like the Line of Actual Control and India’s maritime boundaries.
Strategic and Export Potential
Apart from domestic use, these AWACS systems could eventually open up opportunities for exports to friendly nations. The project also aligns with India’s broader vision of enhancing aerospace capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign surveillance platforms.
