The Indian Air Force (IAF) is all set to induct an advanced surveillance platform featuring indigenously built radars from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The radars have been mounted on a modified Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft that was acquired from Brazil.
The modified Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft features an Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEWACS), which has the ability to "see and listen" to incoming threat from enemies afar. The indigenous radar provides 240 degree coverage.
The DRDO's Bengaluru-based Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) has been responsible for the design, integration and testing of the early warning system.
All the operational trials prior to the induction have been completed and it is expected to be inducted by November or later, the Hindu reported quoting a person with its knowledge.
The second aircraft is currently undergoing initial trails and is expected to join the first one by mid 2017. India will have three such aircraft.
The deal for three Embraer ERJ 145 aircraft that was worth $208 million is under investigation. Recently a CBI investigation suggested the possibility of Embraer paying out $5.5 million to an overseas agent as commission, against India's procurement policy. The Defence Ministry asked the CBI to initiate a probe into any wrongdoing.
