New Delhi: DRDO Netra AEW&C is set to achieve a major milestone on June 25, 2026, when the indigenous airborne surveillance system receives its Final Operational Clearance (FOC) at the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) in Bengaluru.
The development marks a significant achievement for India’s defence modernization efforts and strengthens the Indian Air Force’s ability to detect, track, and respond to aerial and maritime threats in real time.
The FOC certification confirms that the system has successfully completed all required trials and is fully mission-ready.
Details of Netra AEW&C
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced that the formal ceremony for the declaration of Final Operational Clearance of the Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system will be held on June 25, 2026, in Bengaluru.
Read also: Indian Air Defence Giant: Why Project Kusha Is Making Global Headlines
What Does Final Operational Clearance Mean?
FOC is the final stage of certification for a military platform.
It confirms that:
- All development and operational trials have been completed.
- The platform meets the performance standards required by the armed forces.
- The system is fully combat-ready.
- The aircraft can be deployed for operational missions without restrictions.
This is a crucial step beyond the earlier Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) stage.
What is the Netra AEW&C System
Netra AEW&C is India’s first indigenous airborne early warning and control aircraft developed by DRDO for the Indian Air Force.
The system is built on the Embraer EMB-145 aircraft platform and integrates:
- Indigenous AESA radar technology
- Electronic intelligence systems
- Communication intelligence capabilities
- Command and control systems
- Real-time data-sharing networks
The aircraft acts as a flying command centre and radar station, often referred to as the “Eye in the Sky” because it can detect threats far beyond the range of ground-based radar systems.
Key Capabilities of Netra AEW&C
Airborne Surveillance
The aircraft continuously monitors airspace and can detect:
- Fighter aircraft
- Drones
- Missiles
- Sea-surface targets
- Hostile electronic emissions
Battle Management
Netra provides commanders with a comprehensive real-time picture of the battlefield, helping them make faster and better decisions during military operations.
Network-Centric Warfare
The platform links fighter aircraft, ground stations, and command centres, improving coordination across multiple military assets.
Extended Radar Coverage
The indigenous AESA radar enables long-range surveillance and target tracking while operating from safe distances.
Why the FOC Matters
The FOC declaration is more than a technical certification.
It demonstrates that India has successfully matured an advanced indigenous airborne surveillance system capable of supporting modern air warfare.
Strategic Significance
- Enhances India’s air defence network.
- Improves early warning capabilities against enemy aircraft and missiles.
- Reduces dependence on imported surveillance systems.
- Strengthens indigenous defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- Improves preparedness along sensitive borders.
Current Netra Fleet and Future Expansion
DRDO has already delivered three Netra aircraft to the Indian Air Force in IOC configuration. These aircraft have participated in operational deployments and surveillance missions.
India is also working on the next-generation Netra Mk-II programme, which will feature:
- Larger aircraft platforms
- Improved radar coverage
- Greater endurance
- Enhanced mission capabilities
The successful FOC of Netra Mk-I is expected to support future indigenous airborne warning programmes.
Read also: Big Relief for Nuclear Sector: India Removes Retrospective Customs Duty on Key Equipment Imports
