India and Israel have accelerated the negotiations about the Indian Air Force plan to acquire more Israel built Phalcon type AEW systems.
The Indian Air Force that already operates three Israeli made Phalcon long-range AEW systems on Russian made IL-76 transport aircraft, wants another two, to enhance its capabilities.
The proposed deal is estimated at $US2.5 billion and will include a more advanced version of the Phalcon made by Elta, the electronics subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
The Indian Air Force is currently operating the three IL-76 equipped with the Israeli developed Phalcon long range AEW and another two smaller AEW systems carried by Embraer 145 business jet.
But the Indian operational needs are for additional long range AEW systems, and IAI is offering an upgraded version with added capabilities that make the system an “all-in-one” AEW, ELINT and Comint integrated system, that according to Israeli source, has “matched capabilities”.
The negotiated deal is based on manufacturing some of the sub systems in India to comply with the Make India policy of the Indian government.
By Arie Egozi
With more than 25 years of experience in defence publishing, Global Business Press and its industry leading titles Asian Defence Technology, Asian Airlines & Aerospace and Daily News are the leading defence publications in the region, present at more international shows and exhibitions than any other competing publication in the region.
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