Embraer unveils platform for India

Embraer presented the first of three EMB 145 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) platforms on Monday to representatives of the Indian government at a ceremony at its headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil.

Based on the 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 set of aerodynamic and structural changes.

These improvements are expected to allow the installation of the advanced electronic systems presently being developed by India’s Defence Research & Development Organization (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 goodwill 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.

The IAF today operates four Embraer Legacy 600 jets for the transportation of VIPs and foreign dignitaries, and a fifth Embraer Legacy 600 is in service with the Border Security Force (BSF), under the Home Ministry.