In a move to boost its aerial intelligence and surveillance capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing to establish a cutting-edge airborne command and control system. As part of Rs 10,000-crore project, three Bombardier Global-6500 aircraft are set to be transformed into advanced flying command centers. The Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft is primarily used in India for private/business aviation and is being acquired by the IAF for specialised military missions.
The Bombardier Global will be similar to the aircraft used by heads of state. For example, consider Air Force One, the plane used by US President Donald Trump, which is essentially a mobile air base. It will have radar and missile evasion capabilities. The entire project for the Indian Air Force is being led by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and it is considered a major step towards India's self-reliant defense technology. These state-of-the-art platforms will enable real-time surveillance and intelligence gathering during both peacetime and wartime, marking a significant leap in India’s aerial defense capabilities.
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What is the ISTAR mission?
These aircraft will be equipped with the ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) system. This means that the Bombardier Global aircraft will provide continuous surveillance of activities of the enemies. With the help of this technology, India will be able to monitor areas hundreds of kilometers inside enemy territory, even from across the border. This will enable real-time target identification and provide precise information about enemy fighter jets and missile systems. These aircraft will act as "Eyes in the Sky" during wartime.
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Why is Bombardier Global-6500 chosen?
The Global-6500 is a Canadian business jet, usually known for luxury flights, but its astonishing features make it ideal for military missions. It can travel more than 12,000 kilometers on a single refuelling. In addition, it can fly at an altitude of up to 51,000 feet, similar to a fighter jet. It can remain airborne for approximately 12 hours at a time for surveillance. It has a large cabin inside, where all the equipment can be easily fitted. Flying at such a high altitude also reduces the risk from enemy air defenses.
The Bombardier Global aircraft will provide the military with a significant advantage during wartime. It will be particularly useful for surveillance along the borders with Pakistan and China, as Pakistan frequently engages in cross b order terrorism, and China often encroaches on border territories. The borders with both countries are quite rugged and difficult to monitor, making this aircraft a valuable asset for surveillance.
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