India Wants Long-endurance Awacs
Air Force issues RFP for aircraft outfitted for airborne warning and control system role.
The IAF currently operates three A-50EI aircraft, which are Ilyushin Il-76s outfitted with IAI Phalcon radar and mission control systems. (Photo: Indian Air Force)
The IAF currently operates three A-50EI aircraft, which are Ilyushin Il-76s outfitted with IAI Phalcon radar and mission control systems. (Photo: Indian Air Force)

Although India already operates two types of airborne early warning aircraft, the country's air force is pressing ahead with a program to procure a third platform with extended range, longer endurance and higher operational altitude performance. A request for proposal (RFP) has been released to original equipment manufacturers by the Ministry of Defence’s Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) for the supply of six “aircraft with necessary structural modifications, power and endurance adaptations and equipment installation/installation provisions for the Awacs (airborne warning and control system)(India) role, and certified as per FAR 25 or equivalent.” The bids will be opened on July 15.