Pakistan ‘Outnumbers’ India In AWACS Capability’; Adds Another SAAB ‘Eye In The Sky’ While IAF Looks To Expand Fleet
Pakistan
Bolsters Airborne Surveillance with New SAAB 2000-based Erieye Aircraft
In a strategic move that significantly enhances its
airborne surveillance capabilities, Pakistan has discreetly introduced a new
SAAB 2000-based Erieye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft.
This latest addition, with the serial number ‘23058,’ expands the Pakistan Air
Force’s (PAF) Erieye fleet to approximately nine aircraft.
Outnumbering
the Indian Air Force
This development raises eyebrows, especially in
comparison to the Indian Air Force (IAF), which currently operates three
Russian IL-76 ‘Phalcon’ AWACS and two Embraer Netra early warning aircraft. The
PAF's numerical advantage is further emphasized by its existing fleet, which
includes the Chinese ZDK03 Karakoram Eagle AWACS.
The
Role of AWACS in Air Operations
Equipped with deep penetration and long-range radars,
AWACS plays a pivotal role in controlling the battle theater during
hostilities. By peering into enemy territory, these airborne systems provide
advanced information on the movement of adversary air assets, offering a
strategic advantage.
Induction
and Expansion of Fleet
Reports indicate that the new Erieye aircraft, serial
number ‘23058,’ officially joined the PAF's fleet at the beginning of 2024. The
induction ceremony included various aircraft types, such as the Chengdu J-10 CE
‘Dragon’ multirole fighters and ex-Belgian Air Force C-130 H Hercules
airlifters. This brings the total number of flying radars in the PAF's fleet to
an impressive nine.
Procurement
History of Erieye AEW&Cs
The procurement of Erieye AEW&C aircraft by
Pakistan occurred in three phases. The initial order, signed in 2006, involved
six AEW&Cs (along with one standard SAAB 2000) at a cost of US $1.15
billion. However, due to the 2005 earthquake, the order was downsized to four
aircraft.
In a tragic turn of events in 2012, three out of the
four aircraft were lost in a terrorist attack on Mihas Airbase. While one was
written off, the remaining two were severely damaged. Undeterred, the PAF
internally restored the damaged aircraft, showcasing resilience in the face of
adversity.
Operational
Significance of SAAB Erieye AEW&C
The SAAB Erieye AEW&C aircraft gained operational
prominence during the Pakistan counter-strike on February 27, 2019. In a
targeted mission, they directed and controlled 25 fighter jets toward Indian
brigade headquarters and other installations in Nowshera. It's noteworthy that
India had previously expressed diplomatic concerns over the sale of Swedish
aircraft to Pakistan.
These AEW&Cs played a crucial role in Operation
Swift Retort, offering real-time battlefield insights to the PAF and
pinpointing the locations of Indian Air Force assets during the engagement on
February 27.
Strengthening
Airborne Surveillance Capabilities
In conclusion, Pakistan's introduction of the new SAAB
2000-based Erieye AEW&C aircraft underscores its commitment to
strengthening airborne surveillance capabilities. The expansion of the fleet
not only bolsters national security but also provides the PAF with a
technological edge in the region. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, the
strategic advantage gained through advanced airborne systems becomes
increasingly vital.
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