As part of its ongoing efforts to improve its airborne capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to expand its Airbus A321 aircraft. Following approval to acquire six commercial Airbus A321 platforms for conversion into Netra 2.0 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, the IAF plans to acquire seven further Airbus A321 platforms from the used market. These aircraft will be converted for signals intelligence (SIGINT) and communications jamming (COMJAM) missions, increasing the IAF’s operational flexibility.
IAF to Expand its Airbus A321 Fleet for Advanced Aerial Capabilities
The exact requirements call for the acquisition of five aircraft that will be adequately integrated and certified for SIGINT and COMJAM activities by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). In addition, two aircraft will be allocated for SIGINT missions. In the initial phase of this expansion, the IAF is considering purchasing three aircraft.
The development of the sensor package required for the SIGINT and COMJAM aircraft will be given to DRDO labs, guaranteeing that these aircraft are outfitted with cutting-edge technology to successfully perform their assigned missions.
To preserve commonality throughout its Force Multiplier fleet, the IAF intends to acquire and modify more Airbus A321 platforms locally. This method not only aids India’s goal for self-sufficiency in defence production, but it also streamlines fleet maintenance and logistics.
The increase in the Indian Air Force’s Airbus A321 fleet constitutes a significant step forward, providing it with advanced capabilities in areas such as airborne early warning, signals intelligence, and communications jamming. These additions to the fleet would strengthen India’s defence capability and capabilities to effectively meet growing security concerns.
Collaborations with global OEMs and the development of indigenous technology solutions will be critical in ensuring the nation’s air defence remains resilient and adaptable to evolving threats as the IAF continues to modernise and update its assets.
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