India's CCS approves two major contracts
On 17 July 2025, India's Prime Minister-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved contracts for the Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft, also known as the Netra Mk2, and for the acquisition of additional Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A.
The Tejas contract, valued at USD 7,7 billion, covers the procurement of 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft, bringing the total order to 180. On 18 August 2025, Scramble Magazine reported on the progress of the new fighter’s induction into the Indian Air Force.
The AEW&C contract, valued at USD 2,2 billion, involves mounting active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, along with electronic and signal intelligence systems, on six second-hand Airbus A321 aircraft previously acquired from Air India.
The six former Air India A321s were acquired in early 2022. Four have been re-registered with Bharatiya Vayu Sena (IAF, Indian Air Force) serials and titles but still retain their Air India livery. Since April 2023, these four aircraft have been flying regularly across India for training missions, while the remaining two have been parked at Hindon Air Force Station. Additionally, one Airbus A319 was acquired from Air India in 2021 for pilot conversion training. Previously registered as VT-SCO, it has been re-registered as SR701.
The A321s will be converted into Netra Mk2 AEW&C platforms. They are expected to be sent to an Airbus facility in France (or possibly Spain) for structural modifications. The process will include stripping commercial interiors, reinforcing the airframe, installing a dorsal radar antenna, auxiliary power units, military avionics, mission operator consoles, and overhauling the cockpit. The fuselage will be strengthened to support the AESA radar and sensor suite, while avionics will be adapted to military specifications.
If negotiations conclude by the end of 2025, structural conversion of the first aircraft is expected to take about two years, with delivery to India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) around 2027.
Following delivery, DRDO will integrate radar systems and mission suites. Developmental trials are projected to begin by 2029. Full operational induction of the first Netra Mk2 platform is expected around 2030, with final deliveries anticipated by 2033–2034.
Credit photo: Hans van der Wilt (Scramble Archive)