India's Netra AEW&C Gets Final Operational Clearance Certificate
India's indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system received its Final Operational Clearance (FOC) certificate on 25 June 2026. The DRDO handed over the certificate to the Indian Air Force (IAF) at a ceremony in Bengaluru, Karnataka, presided over by Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti.
What is an AEW&C System?
An Airborne Early Warning and Control system is an aircraft-based surveillance platform fitted with radar and mission systems for long-range airspace monitoring. AEW&C platforms support airborne surveillance, situational awareness, command support and battle management.
Netra Programme
The Netra AEW&C system was developed indigenously through collaboration among the IAF, DRDO and associated industries. The project was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in October 2004. It has been used operationally, including in missions associated with Operation Sindoor and the Balakot strikes.
Key Exam Facts
- Final Operational Clearance (FOC) follows the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) stage in defence induction.
- DRDO is India's premier defence research organisation under the Ministry of Defence.
- AEW&C systems enable early detection of aircraft and aerial threats.
- The Netra programme was approved in October 2004 by the Cabinet Committee on Security.