The Indian Airforce (IAF) is all set to launch by the end of January it’s very own Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS). This will be the ‘Eyes in the sky’ and will be able to detect any incoming cruise missiles, jets, fighter jets or even drones from China and Pakistan.
India according to some experts is a bit slow on the defence capability in comparison with China and Pakistan. We already have three airborne Phalcon warning and control system (AeW&CS-All Weather Airborne Early Warning and Control System). This uses the early warning radars of Israel, mounted in domes on the IL-76 airplanes.
The DRDO said that an indigenous AWACS has been developed by the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) in Bengaluru. This will be placed on Brazilian made aircraft, Embraer- 145 and is worth Rs. 2,200 crore. It has passed all tests and certifications and will be launched by the end of January.
The DRDO added, “It is equipped with multiple communication and data links that can alert and direct fighters against threats while providing Recognizable Air Surveillance Picture (RASP) to commanders at the Ground Exploitation Stations (GES) that are strategically located.”
