View source for DRDO AEW&CS

{{short description|Airborne early warning and control aircraft}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
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{{Infobox aircraft
| name = NETRA AEW&CS
| image = DrdoNetra.jpg
| alt = A DRDO Netra in flight, deploying [[Flare (countermeasure)|flares]]
| image_caption = A DRDO Netra in flight, deploying [[Flare (countermeasure)|flares]]
| aircraft_type = *[[Airborne early warning and control]] (AEW&C)
*[[Surveillance]], Tracking, Identification & [[Classification]] of Airborne and Sea surface targets, [[Ballistic Missile]] detection<ref name="newindianexpress">{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/sep/11/drdo-hands-over-second-netra-early-warning-system-to-iaf-2032231.html|title= DRDO hands over second 'Netra' early warning system to IAF|date= 11 September 2019|publisher=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref>
| national_origin = India
| manufacturers = 
| designer = [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] <br/>[[National Aerospace Laboratories]]
| primary_user = [[Indian Air Force]]
| more_users = 
| number_built = Mk1:
*3<ref name="livefistdefence">{{cite web|url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/2018/02/indian-air-force-wants-home-grown-awacs-to-double-as-tanker.html|title=Indian Air Force Wants Home-Grown AWACS To Double As Tanker|date=28 February 2018 |publisher=LIVE FIST DEFENCE}}</ref>on [[Embraer R-99]]
| introduction = 14 February 2017
| first_flight = 
| developed_from = 
| manufacturer = 
| retired = 
| status = In service
| produced = 2011-present
| variants = 
| unit cost = {{INRConvert|800|c|0}} in 2019{{citation needed|date=September 2020}}
}}The '''DRDO Airborne Early Warning and Control System''' ('''AEW&CS''') is a project of [[India]]'s [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] to develop an [[airborne early warning and control]] system for the [[Indian Air Force]]. It is also referred to as '''NETRA''' Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&CS).

== Development ==
In 2003, the [[Indian Air Force]] (IAF) and DRDO carried out a joint study of the system-level requirements and feasibility of development for an Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system.<ref name=":0">{{cite press release | title = Development of Airborne Early Warning and Control System | publisher = Press Information Bureau, [[Government of India|GoI]] | date = 11 December 2003 | url = http://pib.nic.in/release/release.asp?relid=123 | access-date = 25 July 2008 }}</ref> The Government then approved the project for the development of the AEW&C system by DRDO. Primary responsibility for the project was with [[Centre for Airborne Systems]] (CABS), which led the design, system integration and testing of the system. [[Electronics and Radar Development Establishment]] (LRDE) was responsible for the design of the radar array. The [[Defence Electronics Application Laboratory]] (DEAL), based in [[Dehradun]], was responsible for the Data Link and Communication Systems for AEW&CS.

The DRDO AEW&CS programme, worth {{INRConvert|1800|c|lk=on|year=2008}}, aims to deliver three radar-equipped surveillance aircraft to the [[Indian Air Force]]. The aircraft platform selected was the [[Embraer]] [[ERJ 145]]. As per a contract signed in 2008, Three ERJ 145 were procured from Embraer at a cost of US$210 Million, including the contracted modifications to the airframe including features like in-flight refueling system, SATCOM capability, increased electrical and cooling capacities, and multiple aerodynamic and structural changes.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=AEW&CS Project – IDP Sentinel |url=http://idp.justthe80.com/air-force-projects/force-multipliers/aew-cs-project#TOC-Delivery-Schedule-and-Progress |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120423174529/http://idp.justthe80.com/air-force-projects/force-multipliers/aew-cs-project#TOC-Delivery-Schedule-and-Progress |archive-date=23 April 2012 |access-date=16 April 2012}}</ref> The project goal was to deploy these AEW&C aircraft by 2013.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/Brazilian-jets-to-serve-as-eye-in-the-sky-for-IAF/article15207179.ece | title= Brazilian jets to serve as eye in the sky for IAF | date=20 April 2008 | first=Ravi | last=Sharma | newspaper=The Hindu | access-date=11 September 2019 }}</ref> India's sole previous effort to develop an AEW&C system was the [[Airborne Surveillance Platform]], but the programme, codenamed ''Airavat'', was ended after the only test-bed crashed. The AEW&C project aimed to supplement the larger and more capable [[EL/W-2090]] AWACS acquired by the IAF from [[Israel]]. Three EL/W-2090 systems have been ordered, with follow-on orders of 3 more expected in 2010.<ref name=":1">[http://www.india-defence.com/reports/3805 More Phalcons to be ordered]</ref> Apart from providing the IAF with a cheaper and hence, more flexible AEW&C platform as a backup to its more capable EL/W-2090 class systems, the DRDO AEW&C project aimed to develop the domestic ability to design and operationalise airborne surveillance platforms.

The first round of modifications to the first EMB-145 fuselage for India's early warning aircraft were made in March 2011 in preparation for integration with the Indian-designed antenna.

In June 2010, it was reported that the Active Array Antenna Unit (AAAU), developed by DRDO's [[Centre for Airborne Systems]] (CABS), was to be integrated into the modified EMB-145 aircraft. First test flight of the system was expected in early 2011.<ref name="aviationweek1">[http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_generic.jsp?topicName=india&id=news/awx/2010/06/01/awx_06_01_2010_p0-230912.xml Embraer Develops Complementary Platforms For Indian Systems]</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=India defence |date=12 September 2010 |title=AWACS Developed by DRDO to Roll Out in January 2011; Flight Tests in 2011 |url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-4515 |access-date=12 September 2010 |publisher=india defence}}</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20100916101327/http://sify.com/finance/embraer-aircraft-with-indian-warning-system-to-fly-by-2011-news-default-kjmpObeaejj.html Embraer aircraft with Indian warning system to fly by 2011]</ref><ref>[http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_india-developing-unmanned-combat-air-vehicle_1436844 India developing unmanned combat air vehicle – India – DNA]</ref><ref>[http://www.brahmand.com/news/India-to-roll-out-indigenous-AEW-aircraft-by-2012/6018/1/10.html India to roll out indigenous AEW aircraft by 2012 – Brahmand.com]</ref>
[[File:DRDO_AEW&CS.jpg|alt=DRDO AEW&CS|thumb|DRDO AEW&CS]]
The first modified fuselage platform was handed over to DRDO by Embraer in February 2011. Ground and flight tests of the aircraft were to be followed by installation of radar and other equipment.<ref>[http://www.embraer.com/en-US/ImprensaEventos/Press-releases/noticias/Pages/EMB-145-AEWC-INDIANO.aspx Embraer unveils the new EM 145 AEW&C platform developed for the Indian government]</ref> The first fully modified EMB-145i Aircraft with the antenna and its electronic payload made its maiden flight on 6 December 2011 at Embraer facilities at [[São José dos Campos|Sao Jose dos Campos]] in [[Brazil]] with about 1000 Mission System Components provided by CABS, DRDO. These included the critical item – AESA ([[Active electronically scanned array|Active Electronically Scanned Array]]) Radar Antenna developed by DRDO and certified from ANAC, International FAR Certification Agency at Sao Jose dos Campos in Brazil. Some of the sensitive advanced systems were replaced with dummy equipment of equivalent size and weight. These were to be integrated later in India following flight certification. A two-year certification period is expected. DRDO is expected to receive the next two aircraft platforms to start integration by mid-2012.<ref>{{Cite web |title=AEW&CS Project – IDP Sentinel |url=http://idp.justthe80.com/air-force-projects/force-multipliers/aew-cs-project#TOC-Maiden-Flight-of-First-AEW-C-Embrae |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120423174529/http://idp.justthe80.com/air-force-projects/force-multipliers/aew-cs-project#TOC-Maiden-Flight-of-First-AEW-C-Embrae |archive-date=23 April 2012 |access-date=16 April 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2012-05-16 |title=India's prying plane's first flight in Brazil |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2011/Nov/20/indias-prying-planes-first-flight-in-brazil-311881.html |access-date=2025-01-21 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=M. (ak) |first=Anantha Krishnan |date=2011-11-20 |title=Tarmak007 -- A bold blog on Indian defence: EMB-145 I: India's prying plane's first flight likely on Dec 7 in Brazil |url=https://tarmak007.blogspot.com/2011/11/indias-prying-plane-set-to-fly-in.html |access-date=2025-01-21 |website=Tarmak007 -- A bold blog on Indian defence}}</ref>

Maiden flight of the second fully modified aircraft for the Indian Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C) was held at 1930 IST on 4 April 2012 at the San Jose dos Campos in Brazil. The necessary mission systems and components including the dummy AAAU (Active Antenna Array Unit) are successfully fitted onboard Embraer EMB 145I aircraft.<ref>[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NEWS/newsrf.php?newsid=17672 :: Bharat-Rakshak.com – Indian Military News Headlines ::] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220130227/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NEWS/newsrf.php?newsid=17672|date=20 February 2015}}</ref><ref>[http://livefist.blogspot.in/2012/04/first-look-maiden-flight-of-indias-2nd.html Livefist: FIRST LOOK: Maiden flight of the India's 2nd Indigenous AEW&C]</ref>

As reported in March 2015, the completion timeline of the project was shifted to December 2015 after multiple delays.<ref name=":2" />

By 2017, the project cost for 3 aircraft was revised to {{INRConvert|2425|c|lk=|year=2017}}.<ref name=":8">{{Cite news |date=2017-10-03 |title=Stalled AWACS deals hit Air Force |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/stalled-awacs-deals-hit-air-force/articleshow/60917651.cms |access-date=2025-01-21 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>

=== Workshare ===
The responsibility between various DRDO laboratories is split as follows:

#[[Electronics and Radar Development Establishment|Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE)]]  – Primary radar
#[[Defence Electronics Application Laboratory|Defence Electronics Application Laboratory (DEAL)]] – Communication Systems and Data Link
#[[Defence Avionics Research Establishment|Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE)]] – Self Protection suite, Electronic Support Measurement EW
#[[Defence Electronics Research Laboratory|Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL)]] – Communication Support Measures
#[[Centre for Airborne Systems|Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS)]] – IFF & Overall Programme Management, integration and development of the data handling system, displays, mission computers et al.

Various Indian private sector firms are involved in the programme. [[National Aerospace Laboratories]] (NAL) of [[Council of Scientific and Industrial Research]] (CSIR) contributed to the aerodynamic studies of the antenna array, and flight modelling of the entire AEW&CS platform.

== Further development ==
=== Netra Mk 1A (EMB145) ===
As of 6 February 2024, sources reporting to various media and newspapers said that the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence (MoD)]] will take up the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the six Mark-1A aircraft next week, which will entail mounting [[active electronically scanned array]] antenna-based radars, electronic and signal intelligence systems on [[Brazil|Brazilian]] [[Embraer]] jets, at a cost of around {{INRConvert|9000|c|year=2024}}. These six [[Airborne early warning and control|AEW&C]] aircraft will be based on [[Embraer ERJ family#Military models|Embraer-145]] and have 240-degree radar coverage.<ref name=":3" /> But there will be better software and more advanced technologies like new [[gallium nitride]]-based TR (transmit/receive) modules for the radars. This variant will also inherit some of the technologies from Mark 2.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news |date=2024-02-06 |title=As Pakistan, China fly ahead, India guns for 12 more 'eyes in sky' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/as-pakistan-china-fly-ahead-india-guns-for-12-more-eyes-in-sky/articleshow/107438817.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-02-06 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> DRDO will purchase the aircraft from Embraer and all the modifications will be carried out by the [[Centre for Airborne Systems|Centre for Air Borne Systems]] (CABS) in India. The Defence Acquisition Council is to clear the acquisition soon as of October 2024.<ref name=":7" />

Since the 145 ERJ platform is no longer manufactured, DRDO and IAF are scouting their availability in secondary markets, while Embraer has also offered [[Embraer Legacy 450/500 and Praetor 500/600#Praetor 500/600|Praetor 600]] aircraft for the same role.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Pubby |first=Manu |date=2023-09-22 |title=IAF plans for six more 'Netra' early warning aircraft |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/iaf-plans-for-six-more-netra-early-warning-aircraft/articleshow/103846316.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-01-12 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sipinski |first=Dominik |date=26 September 2023 |title=Indian Air Force scouts for used E145s for AEW conversion |url=https://www.ch-aviation.com/news/132295-indian-air-force-scouts-for-used-e145s-for-aew-conversion |access-date=2024-01-23 |website=ch-aviation |language=en}}</ref>

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) finally cleared the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the AEW&CS project on 20 March 2025.<ref>{{Cite news |date=20 March 2025 |title=DAC clears capital acquisition proposals worth over Rs 54,000 crore to enhance defence capabilities |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2113268 |access-date=20 March 2025 |work=[[Press Information Bureau]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-03-21 |title=Modernisation proposals worth Rs 54,000 crore get ministry of defence's initial nod |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/modernisation-proposals-worth-rs-54000-crore-get-ministry-of-defences-initial-nod/articleshow/119278163.cms |access-date=2025-03-21 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> Reportedly, the Air Force plans to replace the existing Netra AEW&CS is planned to be replaced by upgraded variants.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last1=Philip |first1=Snehesh Alex |last2=ThePrint |date=2025-03-20 |title=Defence ministry clears key 'eye in the sky' project to catch up with Pakistan |url=https://theprint.in/defence/defence-ministry-clears-key-eye-in-the-sky-project-to-catch-up-with-pakistan/2557708/?amp |access-date=2025-03-21 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref> The DAC is also expected to clear the procurement of the six aircraft from Embraer of Brazil in the last week of June 2025.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-06-10 |title=IAF to acquire more teeth through AWACS and mid-air refuellers |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/iaf-to-acquire-more-teeth-through-awacs-and-mid-air-refuellers-101749518913095.html |access-date=2025-06-10 |work=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-06-09 |title=Government likely to clear new 3 air defence missile regiments for army |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/government-likely-to-clear-new-air-defence-missile-regiments-for-army-2738235-2025-06-09 |access-date=2025-06-10 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>

=== Netra Mk 2 (Airbus A321) ===
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in September 2021 cleared the acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the {{INRConvert|11000|c|lk=on|year=2021}} six AEW&CS project. The platform will be [[Airbus A321]] that will be purchased from [[Air India]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Singh|first=Rahul|date=2021-09-09|title=DRDO to develop new early warning jets for IAF under ₹11,000 crore project|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/drdo-to-develop-new-early-warning-jets-for-iaf-under-rs-11000-crore-project-101631202114793.html|url-status=live|access-date=2021-09-10|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909185827/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/drdo-to-develop-new-early-warning-jets-for-iaf-under-rs-11000-crore-project-101631202114793.html |archive-date=9 September 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2021-09-09 |title=Modi govt okays 6 more 'eyes in the sky' for IAF, DRDO project to cost Rs 11,000 crore |url=https://theprint.in/defence/modi-govt-okays-6-more-eyes-in-the-sky-for-iaf-drdo-project-to-cost-rs-11000-crore/730697/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210909111013/https://theprint.in/defence/modi-govt-okays-6-more-eyes-in-the-sky-for-iaf-drdo-project-to-cost-rs-11000-crore/730697/ |archive-date=9 September 2021 |access-date=2021-09-10 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2024-10-06 |title=IAF looking at 12 early warning aircraft under two different programmes |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/iaf-looking-at-12-early-warning-aircraft-under-two-different-programmes/article68725847.ece |access-date=2025-01-21 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The A321s will be sent to France where they will be modified to military standards and then will be returned to DRDO where radars and surveillance suites will be fitted.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Herk |first=Hans van |date=2023-10-05 |title=Additional AEW&C capacity for Indian Air Force |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/additional-aew-c-capacity-for-indian-air-force |access-date=2024-02-03 |website=www.scramble.nl |language=en-GB}}</ref> The contract negotiations for the modifications of the aircraft is on the way as of October 2024.<ref name=":7" />

The developmental work on the six Mark-2 aircraft, with bigger and more capable versions of the AEW&C radars and sensors to be mounted on second-hand [[Airbus A321]] planes bought from [[Air India]], is already at an advanced stage, as of February 2024, at a cost of {{INRConvert|10990|c|year=2024}}. Delivery of the first such AEW&C Mark-2 aircraft, which will also have an antenna in the nose in addition to the main dorsal antenna to give 300-degree radar coverage, should take place in 2026-27.<ref name=":5" /> For the Netra Mk 2 project, [[Adani Enterprises#Adani Defence & Aerospace|Adani Defence & Aerospace]] has been designated as the L1 entity.<ref>{{cite web |title=Integrated Annual Report 2023-24 |url=https://www.adanienterprises.com/-/media/Project/Enterprises/Investors/Investor-Downloads/Annual-Report/AEL-FY24.pdf |publisher=Adani Enterprises Limited |access-date=30 September 2024}}</ref>

The six A321 aircraft, as of March 2025, is operated by the [[Air HQ Communication Squadron, Indian Air Force]].<ref name=":9" />

=== 360° azimuth variant ===
On 29 March 2015, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the development of 2 AEW&C. The radar, mounted on an [[Airbus A330]] airfame, would have a range of 400 km with 360° azimuth. The project, referred to as AWACS-India, would cost {{INRConvert|5113|c|lk=|year=2015}}. This woud be followed by an additional order of 6 units of the same design while the project is midway. Once the contract is signed, 80 months (6-7 years) will be required for the delivery of first aircraft. Airbus was the only contender to provide airframe for the design & development while A330 will undergo some structural and electrical changes for the project. For this project, the funding will be divided in 80:20 ratio between IAF and DRDO.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Rahul |date=2015-03-28 |title=Govt okays Rs 5,113 crore project for next-gen airborne warning system |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/govt-okays-rs-5-113-crore-project-for-next-gen-airborne-warning-system/story-Ux5YPahIsyMWeM2Ukx41EK.html |access-date=2025-01-21 |work=Hindustan Times |issn=}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Pandit |first=Rajat |date=2015-03-29 |title=India to build two next-generation AWACS for Rs 5,113 crore |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-to-build-two-next-generation-awacs-for-rs-5113-crore/articleshow/46731662.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2025-01-21 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>

As of February 2017,  the deal was not signed while the cost of 6 additional AWACS would be {{INRConvert|20000|c|lk=|year=2017}}. The cost negotiations for the first contract would begin after the latter is cleared.<ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=2017-02-12 |title=India to make 6 more AWACS on Airbus platform |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/india-to-make-6-more-awacs-on-airbus-platform-117021200554_1.html |access-date=2025-01-21 |work=Business Standard}}</ref>

On 19 July 2024, IAF issued an [[Request for information|RFI]] to procure six AEW&CS and their respective ground support elements. The elements of the aircraft system would include a primary radar, [[Electronic warfare support measures|electronic surveillance measures]] (ESM), communication support measures (CSM), [[Command and control|command & control]] (C2), battle management system and [[Network-centric warfare|networking]] through [[Data link|data links]], [[Identification friend or foe|IFF]] and [[Electronic warfare|self-protection electronic warfare suite]]. The primary radar is slated to have a 360° azimuth. The jet-engined aircraft is to have 8-hour endurance with [[aerial refueling]] capabilities, cruise altitude of over {{Convert|40000|ft|m|abbr=on}}, cruise speed of above [[Mach number|Mach]] 0.7 and a range of flying altitude from {{Convert|500|ft|m|abbr=on}} to {{Convert|65000|ft|m|abbr=on}}. It should be able to track large bodied aircraft to slow [[Unmanned aerial vehicle|unmanned aerial vehicles]] having a low radar cross section at ranges above {{Convert|550|km|mi|abbr=on}}. Vendors may either offer aircraft already customised as an AEW&CS or any aircraft meeting the requirements laid out by IAF including a pre-owned aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-29 |title=Defence Ministry issues request for information to procure 6 Airborne Early Warning and Control Systems for IAF |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/india/defence-ministry-issues-request-for-information-to-procure-6-airborne-early-warning-and-control-systems-for-iaf-641675 |access-date=2024-09-29 |website=The Tribune}}</ref><ref name=":7">{{Cite news |last=Peri |first=Dinakar |date=2024-10-06 |title=IAF looking at 12 early warning aircraft under two different programmes |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/iaf-looking-at-12-early-warning-aircraft-under-two-different-programmes/article68725847.ece#amp_tf=From%20%251$s&aoh=17282678384749&csi=1&referrer=https://www.google.com&ampshare=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/iaf-looking-at-12-early-warning-aircraft-under-two-different-programmes/article68725847.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007021825/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/iaf-looking-at-12-early-warning-aircraft-under-two-different-programmes/article68725847.ece#amp_tf=From%20%251%24s&aoh=17282678384749&csi=1&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com&ampshare=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thehindu.com%2Fnews%2Fnational%2Fiaf-looking-at-12-early-warning-aircraft-under-two-different-programmes%2Farticle68725847.ece |archive-date=2024-10-07 |access-date=2024-10-07 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

== Variants (Specifications) ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Designation
!Detection range
!Instrumented range
!Radar coverage
!Platform
!Status
!Ref.
|-
|Netra Mk 1
|250–375+ km
(depends on [[Radar cross section|RCS]])
|450–500 km
|240°
|[[Embraer ERJ family#Specifications|Embraer ERJ-145]]
|3 in service
|<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=IAF considering induction of six additional Netra early-warning aircraft |url=https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/iaf-considering-induction-of-six-additional-netra-early-warning-aircraft-123092200234_1.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240803064156/https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/iaf-considering-induction-of-six-additional-netra-early-warning-aircraft-123092200234_1.html |archive-date=2024-08-03 |access-date=2025-06-08 |website=www.business-standard.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":10">{{Cite web |title=NETRA : THE INDIGENEOUS AIRBORNE EARLY WARNING & CONTROL SYSTEM |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/sites/default/files/technology-focus-documrnt/TF_April_2021.pdf |access-date=2025-06-08 |website=DRDO |page=8}}</ref><ref name=":11">{{Cite web |date=2019-09-12 |title=Indian Air Force receives second indigenous AEW&C system |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/indian-air-force-receives-second-indigenous-aewc-system |access-date=2025-06-08 |website=Janes.com |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=As Jets Flew To Balakot, Eye In The Sky 'Netra' Was Operational Brain |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/iaf-strikes-flying-in-indian-airspace-eye-in-the-sky-netra-guided-mirage-2000-jets-to-balakot-1999729 |access-date=2025-06-08 |website=www.ndtv.com |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|Netra Mk 1A
|N/A
|N/A
|240°
|[[Embraer ERJ family#Specifications|Embraer ERJ family]]
|6 planned
|<ref name=":5" />
|-
|Netra Mk 2
|N/A
|N/A
|300°
|[[Airbus A321#Specifications|Airbus A321]]
|6 planned
|<ref name=":5" />
|}
== Design ==

=== Netra Mark 1 ===
[[File:ILA Berlin 2012 PD 027.JPG|thumb|ILA Berlin Air Show 2012, Model of DRDO AEW&CS]]
Two radiating planar arrays assembled back-to-back and mounted on top of the fuselage in an active antenna array unit (AAAU) will provide 240° coverage like [[Erieye]]. The AAAU is configured to compactly house 10 × 2 antenna array panels, 160 transmit receive 10 × 2 antenna array panels, 160 transmit receive multi-modules (TRMMs) dividers, beam forming units, beam control units, power supply units and related electronic devices including cables and connectors. This has been achieved through an innovative and iterative process to arrive at the AAAU with minimal dimensions and optimum mass properties. A unique feature of this Indian TRMM design is that eight trans-receive modules are combined compactly to form a single TRMM, thus facilitating high density installation of 160 of them in the AAAU to power the surveillance radar.<ref>http://publications.drdo.gov.in/gsdl/collect/defences/index/assoc/HASHef00/d0ae05fa.dir/doc.pdf{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

Additionally, the aircraft has other mission capabilities like identification friend or foe (IFF), electronic and communication support measures, C-band line-of-sight and Ku-band SATCOM datalinks, etc., similar to those on the AWACS and CAEW systems. The important modes of operation of the primary radar system are the surface surveillance and the air surveillance. The sensor has the abilities to search, track-while-scan, priority tracking, high performance tracking, etc. In priority tracking, the targets will be placed in full track mode even if these cross the primary surveillance area. In high performance tracking, additional measurements will be made to improve the tracking accuracy. Utilising active aperture technology, the radar provides a fast-beam agile system that can operate in several modes concurrently. Inter-operability with AWACS, other AEW&C aircraft, fighters and ground-exploitation stations is ensured using the data-links with voice and data channels. The aircraft cabin houses five operator work stations to adequately meet requirements of the operational mission tasks.

An air-to-air refuelling system enables extended operations at times of need. The endurance of the platform aircraft is about nine hours with one air-to-air refuelling. The system will have 5-crew operator configuration with an arrangement of up to 7 crew resting at any given time.<ref name=":3" />

== Capabilities ==
[[File:Exercise Vayu Shakti 2019 09.jpg|thumb|DRDO AEW&CS at ''Exercise Vayu Shakti 2019''|left]]
The AEWACS aircraft has an [[active electronically scanned array]] (AESA) primary radar with IFF. The system will also have ESM (Electronic Support Measures) and CSM (Communications Support Measures) ability. Datalinks to network the AEW&CS with fighters, and ground-based control systems will also be provided, as will be the SATCOM (Satellite Communication System). The aircraft will also have a comprehensive self-defence suite. The avionics suite will be linked via a datahandling system, controlled by Mission computers.

DRDO's public overview of the AEW&CS aircraft stated:<ref name=":4">[http://www.drdo.com/dpi/aero-mag-drdo.pdf DRDO article on the AEW & C]</ref>

* The Radar will have an extended range mode against fighter aircraft, and will consist of two back to back AESA arrays, with an additional dedicated IFF array.
* The ESM system will be able to track sources with a directional accuracy of 2 deg. RMS and a frequency accuracy of 1&nbsp;MHz.
* The ESM system will have complete 360-degree coverage in azimuth and have a database of up to 3000 emitters against which threats will be scanned.
* Communication Support Measure system will analyse and record intercepted communications both inflight and post flight.
* Self Protection Suite will have a passive Missile Approach Warning System, a Radar Warning Receiver and countermeasures dispensers. The SPS will be integrated with the ESM and CSM suite.
* The aircraft will support Inflight refuelling.
* The aircraft will have SATCOM, and datalinks to pass on ESM, CSM and radar data to ground stations and datalinks to pass on target information to fighters. More than 40 other aircraft will be datalinked together by the AEW&C aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_533.shtml |title=ACIG Article on the AEWACS |access-date=24 May 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080603231909/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_533.shtml |archive-date=3 June 2008 |url-status=usurped  }}</ref>

==Delivery==
[[File:NetraAwacs.jpg|thumb|A Netra AEW&CS flying in formation with two [[Sukhoi Su-30MKI]]s of IAF]]Embraer Defence and Security, on 16 August 2012 delivered the first EMB 145 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) class of aircraft to the Government of India, in a ceremony held at Embraer's headquarters in [[São José dos Campos Airport|São José dos Campos]], [[Brazil]]. The delivery follows successful completion of ground and flight tests of the aircraft which met operational targets established by both Embraer and Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) of Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO). Later on the aircraft will be delivered to the Indian Air Force after integration of missions systems of DRDO by CABS in India.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 August 2012 |title=India receives first EMB 145 AEW&C aircraft from Embraer |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/news/newsindia-emb-145-aewc-embraer/ |access-date=12 September 2019 |website=Airforce Technology |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=First AEW&C aircraft delivered to India – DB – Digital Battlespace – Shephard Media |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/digital-battlespace/first-aewc-aircraft-delivered-india/ |access-date=12 September 2019 |website=www.shephardmedia.com |language=en}}</ref>

The first fully modified aircraft for India's Airborne Early Warning and Control System landed on Indian soil at [[Centre for Airborne Systems]] (CABS) Bangalore, a DRDO laboratory at 22:10 hours at HAL airport, Wednesday night at 22 August 2012. The acceptance of the aircraft was completed over a period of 15 days at Embraer Facilities in Brazil, by a joint team from CABS, [[Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification]] (CEMILAC), Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA) and Indian Air Force (IAF).

The aircraft ferried with several mission system external components of DRDO including the (AESA radar) Active Electronically scanned Array Antenna with passive electronics fitted on the aircraft. The arrival of this aircraft marks the beginning of another phase of journey leading to the next major milestone of integration of the DRDO developed mission system, which will be followed by development flight trials in India beginning of 2013. It may be noted that this is the first aircraft delivered by M/s Embraer for which the contract was signed in 2008. The next aircraft is expected to arrive in December 2012.[[File:DRDO AEW&C Embraer ERJ 145.JPG|thumb|Netra AEW&C in Aero India 2017|alt=|left]]On 14 February 2017, the first aircraft was delivered to the Indian Air Force at the [[Aero India]] event in the presence of the then [[Indian defense minister|Indian Defense Minister]] [[Manohar Parrikar]]. By October 2017, it received [[Initial operating capability|initial operational clearance]] and was undergoing operational test runs at [[Bathinda Air Force Station|Bathinda Air Force Station]]. As for others, the second aircraft was awaiting [[Full operating capability|final operational clearance]] will be arrange while the third would be retained by DRDO for R&D work.<ref name=":8" />

IAF took delivery of the second NETRA AEW&C on 11 September 2019 and deployed it at [[Bathinda Airport#Bhisiana Air Force Station|Bathinda Air Base]] in Punjab.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/sep/11/drdo-hands-over-second-netra-early-warning-system-to-iaf-2032231.html|title=DRDO hands over second 'Netra' early warning system to IAF|website=The New Indian Express|date=11 September 2019 |access-date=12 September 2019}}</ref> The third Embraer platform was meant to remain with DRDO but now they are looking at the option of selling the aircraft to a foreign customer as a major diplomatic gesture.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.livefistdefence.com/2018/02/indian-air-force-wants-home-grown-awacs-to-double-as-tanker.html|title=Indian Air Force Wants Home-Grown AWACS To Double As Tanker|last=Aroor|first=Shiv|website=Livefist|date=28 February 2018 |language=en-US|access-date=12 September 2019}}</ref>

== Operational history ==
{{Main article|2019 Balakot airstrike}}

The first combat usage of the Netra AEW&C by the IAF was on 26 February 2019, during the [[2019 Balakot airstrike|Balakot airstrike]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/02/26/balakot-attack-mirage-2000-wasnt-only-star-unarmed-iaf-jets-also-played-role.html|title=Balakot attack: Mirage 2000 wasn't only star, unarmed IAF jets also played role|date=26 February 2020|access-date=20 September 2020|website=[[The Week (Indian magazine)|The Week]]}}</ref> Indonesia has requested a systems demonstration.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.militer.or.id/1630/indonesia-gets-in-line-for-indias-new-aewc-jet/|title=Indonesia Gets in Line For India's New AEW&C Jet|last=Raditya|first=Rendy|date=13 February 2017|website=Militer.or.id|language=en-US|access-date=12 September 2019}}</ref>

== Operators ==
;{{flagu|India}}
*{{Air force|IND}} : 3 in service<ref>{{cite book| url=https://www.iiss.org/publications/the-military-balance/the-military-balance-2023| title=The Military Balance 2023| author1=International Institute for Strategic Studies| author-link1=International Institute for Strategic Studies| date=15 February 2023| publisher=[[Routledge]]| location=[[London]]| pages= 251| isbn=9781032508955}}</ref>
**[[Bathinda Airport#Bhisiana Air Force Station|Bhisiana Air Force Station]], [[Bathinda, Punjab]]
***[[No. 200 Squadron IAF|No. 200 Squadron]]

==See also==
* [[Embraer ERJ 145 family]]
* [[Embraer R-99]]
* [[Dassault Falcon 7X|Dassault Falcon 8X ARCHANGE]]
* [[GlobalEye|Saab GlobalEye]]
* [[Raytheon Sentinel]]
* [[Shaanxi KJ-2000]]
* [[Gulfstream G550|Gulfstream G550 CAEW Eitam]]
* [[Embraer Legacy 450/500 and Praetor 500/600]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:DRDO AEWandCS}}
[[Category:Military radars of India]]
[[Category:Military equipment of India]]