India Shoots Down Pakistani AWACS? Here's How Dangerous This 'Sky Eye' Is

Islamabad: The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan seems to be moving towards war. Heavy firing continues on the border. During this, it is being claimed that India has shot down Pakistan's Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AWACS). It is being said that this AWACS was coordinating with the fighter planes of the Pakistani Air Force during the clash with India. Not only this, this AWACS was also trying to break into the Indian air border. However, it has not been officially confirmed. In such a situation, know what is AWACS and how many such aircraft does Pakistan have.

What is AWACS system

AWACS platforms collect information beyond the limited capabilities of powerful ground-based radars. AWACS are mobile and can fly at different heights. This also enables them to identify low-flying missiles, aircraft or objects that are not visible to ground radars due to the curvature of the earth. AWACS can cover a wide front, allowing it to coordinate with ground-based radars and surface-to-air missiles to form a densely networked integrated air defense (IAD). It can also keep an eye on enemy airspace.

How many AWACS systems does India have?

The Indian Air Force operates three Russian IL-76 'Falcon' AWACS and two Ember Netra early warning aircraft. Most of these AWACS are operated on the border with China and Pakistan. If an AWACS goes for maintenance, its number reduces further. This also affects India's ability to keep an eye on the enemy from the sky. The AWACS system is equipped with long-range radar to gather information deep inside enemy territory. It provides fresh information about every air activity of the enemy.

How many AWACS does Pakistan have?

The Pakistani Air Force has about nine AWACS systems. The newest of these, the Saab-2000 aircraft equipped with the Erie AWACS, was inducted into the Pakistani Air Force in early 2024. The Erie AWACS have been purchased in three orders. The Pakistani Air Force placed the first order of $1.15 billion for six AWACS in 2006. But, after the 2005 earthquake, Pakistan reduced the order to four aircraft. Pakistan also used the SAAB Erie AWACS aircraft during the air strike against India on February 27, 2019.