DRDO signs contracts for AEW&C MK-II programme with AIESL and Adani Defence
UPSC / SSC current affairs note
Why in news
DRDO's CABS signed two major contracts with industry partners AIESL and Adani Defence for the AEW&C MK-II programme, boosting India's airborne early warning capabilities. This marks a significant step under Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
Background
The AEW&C MK-II programme aims to develop an indigenous airborne early warning and control system. DRDO's CABS is the nodal laboratory. Earlier, India operated a smaller fleet of AEW&C aircraft based on Embraer platforms.
Key facts
DRDO's CABS signed a contract with AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) for conversion of six A321 aircraft from commercial to green configuration.
A separate contract was signed with Adani Defence Systems and Technologies (ADSTL) as development cum production partner (DcPP) for mission systems.
Contracts were signed in presence of Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh on July 22, 2026.
CABS with ADSTL will integrate mission systems on modified AEW&C MK II platform delivered by Airbus Defence & Space (OEM).
Flight testing will be done with IAF to obtain certification from CEMILAC and DGAQA.
AEW&C Mk II will provide enhanced endurance, advanced surveillance, secure communication, and improved command and control.
The programme will boost air defence capabilities and neutralize threats across extended ranges.
Prelims pointers
- DRDO - Defence Research and Development Organisation
- CABS - Centre for Air Borne Systems
- AIESL - AI Engineering Services Limited
- ADSTL - Adani Defence Systems and Technologies
- AEW&C - Airborne Early Warning and Control
- CEMILAC - Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification
- DGAQA - Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of indigenous AEW&C capabilities for India's air defence.
- Analyze the role of public-private partnerships in defence manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
- Evaluate the challenges in developing complex defence systems like AEW&C.