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 previously received Initial Operational Authorization in 2017. Officials said FOC signifies that the platform is fully combat-ready without operational limitations, unlike IOC, which demonstrates basic functionality.

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

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

“Perhaps the greatest testament to the Indian Air Force’s faith in this indigenous program was our decision to operationally commission the platform even before its final operational clearance. And this was not just an act of optimism. It was an expression of confidence in the capabilities of our scientists and 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 system has been developed indigenously through collaboration between the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), IAF and industry partners, enhancing aerial surveillance and battle management capabilities, the defense ministry said.

“This represents a significant achievement in India’s journey to self-reliance in advanced aerospace and defense technologies,” the ministry said.

Defense minister Rajnath Singh said the FOC was a technological milestone and strengthened India’s aerial surveillance and command-control capabilities.