India has entered the next phase of developing the Netra MkII Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C), representing a major advancement in the country’s indigenous airborne surveillance capability. Unlike the earlier Embraer-based Netra platform, the new system utilizes modified Airbus A321 aircraft, providing significantly greater space, power generation, mission endurance, and payload capacity. The larger platform will accommodate advanced GaN-based AESA radar technology, electronic intelligence suites, electronic warfare equipment, and expanded command-and-control workstations. Structural conversion of the aircraft will be undertaken by Airbus before mission integration is completed in India by DRDO and domestic defense industries. Once operational, Netra MkII will dramatically improve long-range aerial surveillance, sensor fusion, battle management, and integration with India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System, creating a far more capable airborne command node for future air operations.
