DRDO Signs Contracts for AEW&C Mk-II Programme

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) signed two contracts on 22 July 2026 for the Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Mk-II programme. The programme was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security in July 2025 with an outlay of Rs 19,000 crore and is linked to the Indian Air Force’s airborne surveillance capability.

AEW&C System

Airborne Early Warning & Control is an airborne surveillance and command system fitted on aircraft. Such systems use radar, communication equipment, and mission computers for detection, tracking, and coordination in air operations.

Programme Partners and Aircraft Platform

One contract was awarded to AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL) in New Delhi for converting six Airbus A321 aircraft from commercial passenger configuration into green platforms. These aircraft were earlier acquired from Air India and are currently operated by the Air Headquarters Communication Squadron. The second contract was signed with Adani Defence Systems and Technologies Limited (ADSTL) in Ahmedabad as the Development-cum-Production Partner for the mission systems of the AEW&C Mk-II. The Centre for Air Borne Systems (CABS), a DRDO laboratory, leads the programme and will integrate indigenous mission systems onto the modified A321 platforms.

Mission Systems and Testing

The modified aircraft will undergo flight testing with the Indian Air Force after integration of mission systems. The AEW&C Mk-II system is planned to provide endurance, airborne surveillance, secure communication, situational awareness, and command and control functions. The induction of the AEW&C Mk-II fleet is planned for 2032-2033. Adani Defence & Aerospace is the first private Indian company to handle a large-scale airborne mission platform under this programme.

Important Facts for Exams

• AEW&C stands for Airborne Early Warning & Control, a category of airborne surveillance systems.
• CABS stands for Centre for Air Borne Systems and functions under DRDO.
• The Cabinet Committee on Security approved the AEW&C Mk-II programme in July 2025.
• Airbus A321 is a twin-engine, narrow-body commercial aircraft used here as the base platform.