Indigenous Netra FOC to Boost India's Airborne Surveillance Capability

New Delhi: India’s indigenous ‘Netra’ Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system has received Final Operational Clearance (FOC), enabling its full operational deployment by the Indian Air Force.

The system had earlier received Initial Operational Clearance in 2017. Officials said FOC signifies that the platform is fully combat-ready without operational limitations, unlike IOC, which indicates basic functionality.

India currently operates three Netra AEW&C Mk-1 systems, in addition to three Israeli Phalcon AWACS. The Netra systems were deployed during Operation Sindoor in May 2025.

The government has also cleared the development of 12 advanced variants, including six Netra Mk-1A and six Netra Mk-2 systems.

“Perhaps the greatest testimony to the faith that the Indian Air Force had in this indigenous programme was our decision to induct the platform operationally even before the final operational clearance. And this was not mere act of optimism. This was an expression of confidence in the capabilities of our scientists, and in the immense potential of our indigenous industry,” said Awadhesh Kumar Bharti.

He referred to the operational use and reliability of the system during Operation Sindoor and the Balakot strikes, and highlighted the flexibility offered by indigenous technologies in adapting to evolving operational requirements.

The defence ministry said the system was developed indigenously through collaboration between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the IAF and industry partners, enhancing airborne surveillance and battle management capabilities.

“It represents a landmark achievement in India’s journey towards self-reliance in advanced aerospace and defence technologies,” the ministry said.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh said the FOC marked a technological milestone and strengthened India’s airborne surveillance and command-and-control capabilities.