Adani Defence & Aerospace has secured a pivotal role in enhancing India's aerial defense capabilities by being awarded the contract to integrate and deliver advanced sensors for the Netra II project. This significant development marks a step forward in the modernization of the country's Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) systems.
The Netra II project involves the development of six AEW&C aircraft, designed to act as force multipliers by detecting and tracking airborne threats such as enemy aircraft, missiles, and drones. Adani Defence & Aerospace, in collaboration with the DRDO, will be responsible for equipping these aircraft with cutting-edge sensors.
One of the standout features of Netra II is its expanded coverage area of 300 degrees, achieved through the integration of both dorsal and nose-cone radar systems. The system utilizes a powerful 4D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) multi-mode radar, capable of operating in air-to-air and air-to-sea modes. This advanced radar technology, incorporating S-band and X-band functionalities, significantly enhances the aircraft's surveillance and detection capabilities.
Notably, Netra II's ability to track ballistic missiles strengthens India's anti-ballistic missile defense system. The aircraft's larger platform, utilizing pre-owned Airbus A321 aircraft, offers increased power and capacity compared to the Embraer-145 used in the earlier Netra Mark I.
Deliveries of the six Netra II AEW&C aircraft are expected to commence in 2025 and conclude by 2028, according to DRDO officials. Additionally, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is considering placing repeat orders for six more Embraer-145-based AEW&C aircraft, designated as Netra Mark IA, which will incorporate similar upgrades as Netra II but on the Embraer platform.