Archive · 24 Jul 2026
India Advances Indigenous AEW&C with Adani-DRDO Deal
India is developing a new advanced airborne surveillance system called AEW&C Mk-II.
This system will help the Indian Air Force detect enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles from far away.
The project is a big step towards making India self-reliant in defense technology.
Adani Defence & Aerospace and DRDO will work together to build and support this system on six modified Airbus A321 aircraft.
The system will be operational by 2032-2033 and will be supported for up to 30 years.
This follows the success of the indigenous Netra AEW&C system, which was recently cleared for full operational use.
Adani Defence & Aerospace and DRDO sign deal to develop AEW&C Mk-II for IAF.
Six modified Airbus A321 aircraft to be used for the system.
Project includes 30 years of logistics, maintenance, and technical support.
Induction into IAF planned for 2032-2033.
Netra AEW&C system received Final Operational Clearance in June 2026.
- Who
- Adani Defence & Aerospace, DRDO, Indian Air Force
- What
- Development of AEW&C Mk-II system
- When
- Induction planned for 2032-2033
- Where
- India
- Why
- To enhance indigenous defense capabilities and reduce dependence on imported systems
Pro-Indigenous Development
Pro-Imported Systems
Defense Capabilities
Pro-Indigenous Development
Enhances India's self-reliance in defense technology.
Pro-Imported Systems
Imported systems may offer proven reliability and advanced technology.
- Partners
- Adani Defence & Aerospace, DRDO
- Aircraft
- Six modified Airbus A321
- Project Duration
- Development until 2032-2033
- Support Duration
- Up to 30 years
- Existing System
- Netra AEW&C
- Netra Aircraft
- Embraer ERJ-145
- Netra Radar
- Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA)
- FOC Date
- 25 June 2026