First Of Three Aircraft That Will Incorporate The DRDO-Developed Surveillance Equipment

The first of three EMB 145 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) platforms was unveiled Monday to representatives of the Indian government at a ceremony held at Embraer headquarters in Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil (pictured, below).

Based on the proven Embraer ERJ 145 regional jet, the aircraft features an in-flight refueling system, SATCOM capability, a significant increase in electrical and cooling capacities, and a comprehensive set of aerodynamic and structural changes. These improvements will allow the installation of the advanced electronic systems currently being developed by India's Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) under CABS (Centre for Airborne Systems) coordination.

Following its official presentation, the aircraft will start intensive ground and flight tests. The ferry flight to India is scheduled for the second semester of this year, where it will receive the equipment being developed by the DRDO.

"The smooth progress of such a complex program is strongly based on the good will and the high level of professionalism that both the Indian and Brazilian teams have demonstrated over the last two-and-a-half years. Given Embraer's experience in the field of ISR aircraft and equipment, we believe that this jointly developed product will offer outstanding operational capability, and we look forward to its entry into service," said Eduardo Bonini, Senior Vice President Operations & COO - Embraer Defense and Security.

Four Embraer Legacy 600 jets are currently being operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the transportation of Indian VIPs and foreign dignitaries, and a fifth Embraer Legacy 600 is in service with the Border Security Force (BSF), under India's Home Ministry.

FMI: www.embraer.com