Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System : GS TIMES IAS-PCS

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved Final Operational Clearance (FOC) for the indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, marking its full operational induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF).

About Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System

Netra AEW&C is an indigenously developed airborne surveillance and battle management system designed to enhance the Indian Air Force’s airborne surveillance, situational awareness, and command-and-control capabilities.
It has been developed through close collaboration among DRDO, the Indian Air Force (IAF), and Indian defence industries, reflecting India’s progress towards self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in advanced aerospace and defence technologies.
The system received Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) in 2017, while the recent Final Operational Clearance (FOC) signifies that it has successfully met all operational performance requirements for full-scale deployment.
Mounted on an aircraft, Netra uses an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar along with advanced communication and electronic support systems to detect, identify, and track airborne and surface targets over long distances.
It provides real-time intelligence, surveillance, target tracking, and battle management support, enabling better coordination of air operations.
As an indigenous platform, Netra offers the armed forces greater flexibility to upgrade and modify the system in response to evolving warfare requirements without dependence on foreign suppliers.
The successful induction of Netra is regarded as a major milestone in India’s defence indigenisation efforts and demonstrates effective synergy between operational users, scientific institutions, and defence production agencies.