Netra AEW&C System
- Context: The indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system has received Final Operational Clearance (FOC).
- It serves as a major force multiplier for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and played a crucial role during the 2019 Balakot air strikes and Operation Sindoor.
About Netra AEW&C
- Developed indigenously by the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bengaluru, under the DRDO.
- Integrated on the Brazilian Embraer EMB-145I aircraft platform.
- India is the fifth country in the world to develop indigenous AEW&C capability.
Objective
- The Netra programme was launched to establish indigenous capabilities in airborne surveillance and early warning systems.
- It enhances the Indian Air Force’s ability to monitor national airspace, detect hostile activities, protect sensitive borders, and support network-centric military operations through real-time intelligence and coordination.
