Embraer Defense and Security today delivered the first EMB 145 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) class of aircraft to the Government of India. The delivery follows successful completion of ground and flight tests of the aircraft which met operational targets established by both Embraer and Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS) of Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO). Later on the aircraft will be delivered to the Indian Air Force after integration of missions systems of DRDO by CABS in India.
“The collaboration with DRDO in such a complex program strengthens the ties between Brazil and India”, said Luiz Carlos Aguiar, President & CEO of Embraer Defense and Security at the delivery ceremony held at Embraer’s headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil.“We are very proud to meet the expectations of our clients in providing CABS, DRDO with this platform.”
According to Dr. Elangovan, Chief Controller R&D (Avionics & Aero) of DRDO, this specialized EMB 145 AEW&C features significant increase in electric and cooling capacity, a set of structural changes to allow the installation of the advanced mission systems that have been developed by India’s CABS (Centre for Air Borne Systems) along with its work centers of DRDO. The aircraft was also fitted with in-flight refueling system. The airborne Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) designed and developed by CABS, is now flying on the aircraft and more mission systems are scheduled for installation once the aircraft arrives in India. Remaining AEW&C aircraft are due to be delivered to the Indian Air Force as part of a contract signed in 2008.
The EMB 145 AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control) aircraft is a member of Embraer’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) family of aircraft and systems. Its primary missions include airspace management, fighter positioning and intercept control, signals intelligence, and support for maritime, borders, and Exclusive Economic Zones surveillance and security.
