IAF to Upgrade Six Embraer Jets into Netra Mk1A AWACS with GaN Radar with 450 km Range to Counter China-Pak Stealth Threat

In a major boost to India’s air defence and surveillance network, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to convert six used Embraer EMB-145 jets into advanced Netra Mk1A Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. This move comes as a strategic step to counter the growing air power of neighbouring China and Pakistan, both of whom are expanding their fleets with modern stealth fighters.

Why This Move Matters

With regional tensions rising and both China and Pakistan improving their air capabilities, India needs a stronger, more persistent aerial surveillance setup. AEW&C aircraft play a vital role in this, as they can detect incoming threats like fighter jets, drones, or missiles from hundreds of kilometres away and act as airborne command centres for the Air Force.

The current IAF fleet includes three Netra Mk1 systems and three larger Israeli Phalcon AWACS. In contrast, Pakistan operates nine similar aircraft, and China boasts over 30. To close this gap, India plans to add six Netra Mk1A aircraft — a significantly upgraded version of the Netra Mk1.

What Is Netra Mk1A?

The Netra Mk1A is an improved version of the existing Netra Mk1 AEW&C system, originally built on the Embraer EMB-145 jet platform. The Mk1A will feature a powerful Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar using advanced Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, giving it a detection range of up to 450 kilometres — double that of the Mk1’s approximate 250 km range. It will offer a 240-degree coverage around the aircraft.

These AEW&C aircraft act as airborne command posts, capable of identifying and tracking enemy fighters, missiles, and drones while relaying real-time information to ground-based and airborne units.

Mk1A vs Mk2: How Do They Compare?

While Mk1A fills an urgent operational requirement, the Mk2 project is meant for deeper strategic coverage over larger distances using a bigger, longer-endurance platform.

How the Conversion Will Happen

Since production of the Embraer EMB-145 stopped over a decade ago, India will source these six used aircraft from the global secondary market through an open tender. The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) in Bengaluru will handle the modifications, with support from Embraer and Indian private sector giant Adani Defence and Aerospace.

The aircraft will be fitted with:

• GaN-based AESA radar

• Electronic warfare suites

• Secure data communication links

• Self-protection systems against enemy missiles

• In-flight refueling capability

A Strategic Boost to Counter Stealth Jets

The biggest advantage of these upgraded Netra Mk1A systems will be their improved ability to detect and track stealth aircraft like the Chinese J-35A stealth fighters, which Pakistan is likely to acquire. Stealth aircraft are designed to avoid detection by regular radars, but advanced AESA radars using GaN technology are far more capable of spotting such threats at longer ranges.

An Important Step in Aatmanirbhar Bharat

This project aligns closely with the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) initiative. The radar, electronic systems, and mission software are all being developed in India, while private companies like Adani Defence are participating in the aircraft conversion process alongside DRDO.

Estimated Cost and Timeline

The entire program is estimated to cost around ₹9,000 crore. An open tender for sourcing the aircraft is expected soon, and if all goes as planned, these Netra Mk1A aircraft could start joining the IAF fleet by 2027.

This timely decision by the IAF will not only strengthen India’s 24/7 aerial surveillance capability but also help balance the growing technological edge China and Pakistan seek in the region. With both Netra Mk1A and Mk2 projects moving ahead, India is ensuring that its skies remain well-guarded in the years to come.