DRDO Takes Major Step in Airborne Surveillance with New Aircraft Conversion Agreement

Significant Development in Airborne Early Warning Systems

New Delhi: On Wednesday, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) finalized a contract with a company to convert six A321 aircraft from their commercial use to a green configuration. This initiative is a crucial step towards advancing the Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Mk-II program, as stated by the defence ministry.

Additionally, another agreement was established with a different firm to serve as a development-cum-production partner (DcPP) for the mission systems associated with the AEW&C Mk-II program.

Officials highlighted that this initiative significantly supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission, aimed at enhancing self-reliance in defence capabilities.

The Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS) within DRDO has partnered with AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) in New Delhi for the aircraft conversion, which is pivotal for the AEW&C Mk-II program's development and production.

The AEW&C Mk-II system, spearheaded by DRDO with CABS as the lead laboratory, is designed to enhance endurance, provide advanced airborne surveillance, secure communication, and improve situational awareness and command capabilities. This advancement is expected to significantly strengthen air defence and effectively counter threats over extended distances.

The collaboration with various industries underscores the government's dedication to fostering a self-reliant ecosystem that promotes innovation, research, and manufacturing within India.

The contracts were signed by the Director of CABS and the CEO of AIESL, along with the Head of Airborne Platform from ADSTL, in the presence of key officials including the Defence Secretary and the Chairman of DRDO, Rajesh Kumar Singh.

CABS, with support from ADSTL as the DcPP, will oversee the integration of mission systems onto the modified AEW&C Mk-II platform, which is being delivered by Airbus Defence & Space, the original equipment manufacturer.

Furthermore, CABS and ADSTL will conduct flight testing of the AEW&C Mk-II aircraft in collaboration with the Indian Air Force to secure certification from airworthiness authorities, including the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance.