Russia Ready to Upgrade Indian Air Force’s A-50 Airborne Radars Jets

The Indian Air Fore currently deploys three Russian manufactured A-50 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) jets, which were acquired under a $1.1 billion contract in the mid 2000s and serve as a vital force multiplier for the service’s combat fleet. The aircraft differ from their counterparts in the Russian Air Force, in that they rely on Israeli EL/W-2090 radars rather than the Russian made Vega-M. Indian AEW&C jets are deployed from Agra Air Force Station in Uttar Pradesh by No. 50 Squadron IAF - located to best provide coverage against potential aerial threats.  A recent statement from the President Russia’s state owned military aviation company United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), Yury Slyusar, indicates that Russia is seeking to provide upgrades for India’s fleet to strengthen its capabilities. The President stated: "We are offering different options to India regarding works on AEW&C aircraft. The Indian Air Force operates first three A-50EI aircraft. We are ready to continue work in this area, for example, on the modernisation of systems of this type, including with the participation of partners from third countries."

A-50 AEW&C Aircraft

India is currently the A-50’s only foreign operator, with many Russian defence clients either relying on lighter platforms or lacking AEW capabilities entirely. The A-50E/I variant represents one of several examples where the Indian military has integrated Israeli and Russian technologies into a single system to maximise their potential - the MiG-21 and Tejas fighter jets being other prominent examples. Delhi has reportedly shown interest in acquiring the A-100, a more advanced platform with a Vega Premier Active Phased Array Radar and capabilities considerably surpassing those of the A-50. The aircraft is currently under testing, and is expected to enter service in the Russian Air Force in 2020.