New Delhi: The Netra AEW&C System has officially received Final Operational Clearance (FOC) from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The clearance was handed over to the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 25 June 2026, marking a major achievement for India’s indigenous defence technology.
Developed by DRDO in partnership with the Indian Air Force and Indian defence industries, the Netra AEW&C System will strengthen India’s airborne surveillance, early warning, and battle management capabilities. The information is based on the official Ministry of Defence press release.
Netra AEW&C System at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| System Name | Netra Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) |
| Developed By | DRDO |
| Operator | Indian Air Force |
| Final Operational Clearance | 25 June 2026 |
| Initial Operational Clearance | 2017 |
| Primary Role | Airborne surveillance, early warning, battle management |
| Country | India |
Read also: DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile
What is the Netra AEW&C System
The Netra AEW&C System is an Indian airborne surveillance aircraft that can detect enemy aircraft, missiles, and other aerial threats from long distances. It gives the Indian Air Force a real-time picture of the battlefield. This helps commanders make faster and better decisions during military operations.
The system has been designed and developed in India, making it an important part of the country’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission.
Why is the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) Important
The Final Operational Clearance (FOC) means the Netra AEW&C System has successfully completed all required operational testing. It confirms that the system is fully ready for regular service with the Indian Air Force.
The earlier Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) was granted in 2017. After years of successful testing and operational experience, the system has now achieved full operational status.
What are the Benefits of the Netra AEW&C System
The indigenous Netra system provides several important advantages.
- Detects airborne threats at long distances.
- Improves battlefield awareness.
- Supports air defence operations.
- Enhances command and control.
- Provides real-time intelligence.
- Helps coordinate military aircraft.
- Strengthens India’s defence preparedness.
DRDO and Indian Air Force Celebrate Major Milestone
The Final Operational Clearance certificate was presented during a ceremony held in Bengaluru. The event was attended by Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, senior DRDO scientists, Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS) officials, retired Air Force officers, and industry partners.
The ceremony highlighted years of collaboration between DRDO, the Indian Air Force, and Indian defence companies.
Netra AEW&C Performance During Operations
During the ceremony, Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti appreciated the system’s operational reliability. He said the Netra AEW&C System performed effectively during Operation Sindoor and the Balakot air strikes.
He also noted that indigenous systems can be upgraded more easily to meet future operational requirements.
DRDO Highlights the Journey of Netra
Dr. K. Rajalakshmi Menon, Director General of DRDO’s Aeronautics Cluster, explained that the Netra project required years of planning, engineering, and flight testing.
She said strong teamwork and system engineering helped deliver a fully operational indigenous airborne early warning platform to the Indian Air Force.
Why Netra AEW&C Matters for India’s Defence
The Netra AEW&C System strengthens India’s ability to monitor its airspace and respond quickly to threats. The platform improves surveillance, intelligence gathering, command and control, and battlefield coordination.
It also reduces dependence on imported defence technology and supports India’s long-term goal of becoming self-reliant in advanced military systems.
