Key Points
India is making significant progress in developing and deploying advanced indigenous airborne early-warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, also known as 'eyes in the sky'..
These aircraft will enhance surveillance and detection capabilities along the borders with China and Pakistan, as well as provide guidance to friendly fighters during air combat...
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are actively working on the development of six Mark-1A and six Mark-2 versions of the Netra AEW&C aircraft..
The development of these aircraft is crucial for India, as it currently lags behind Pakistan and China in the AEW&C and AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) domain..
The IAF recognized the urgent need for more AEW&C aircraft during the aerial skirmish with Pakistani fighters in February 2019, which were supported by Saab-2000 Erieye AEW&C aircraft..
