The conflict between India and Pakistan grew more intense on Thursday night as Indian forces launched a counterstrike. This response came after drones and missiles from across the border tried to hit Indian military posts along the western and northern frontiers. During the attack, around 15 cities experienced power blackouts. The targets appeared to include key locations in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.
Despite the attempt, Indian defence successfully neutralised the incoming drones and missiles. But the major development was the reported downing of a Pakistani AWACS aircraft. If confirmed, this would mark a significant hit to Pakistan’s air defence abilities, especially in terms of aerial surveillance and coordination during combat.
According to India Today, the aircraft was shot down within Pakistan’s Punjab province. However, no official government statement has been made on this incident so far.
What Is AWACS?
The Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) is a powerful airborne radar system used in military operations. Mounted on large aircraft, it works like a flying control room. It monitors the skies, detects aircraft or missiles over large distances, and guides fighter jets and defence systems in real time.
AWACS plays a key role in modern warfare by acting as an early warning system. It sends live updates to commanders on the ground, at sea, and in the air. This system helps coordinate air missions, track threats, and provide electronic surveillance.
Often referred to as the military’s “eyes in the sky,” AWACS has multiple uses. It was first developed by the U.S. Air Force and installed on the Boeing E-3 Sentry—a modified version of the Boeing 707.
What Can AWACS Do?
AWACS aircraft are crucial for airspace monitoring. They provide real-time updates on both enemy and friendly aircraft, helping military leaders make quick decisions during conflict.
These planes detect drones, missiles, or aircraft before they appear on regular radar systems. They also guide friendly planes during operations, ensuring safe and accurate manoeuvres. Additionally, AWACS assist in electronic warfare. They can jam enemy signals, monitor communication traffic, and track radio frequencies used in battle.
How Do They Work?
The original U.S. AWACS model—the E-3 Sentry—is based on a commercial aircraft with a spinning radar dome called a “rotodome” mounted on top. This radar system can detect aircraft over 375 km away. It also uses IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) technology to tell whether aircraft are friendly or hostile, even when they fly low or close to the ground.
Inside the plane, military specialists sit at workstations to monitor threats, assign fighter jets, and coordinate missions. According to Moneycontrol, these aircraft are also equipped with secure satellite links, enabling them to share data with fighter jets, missile systems, naval forces, and ground radars.
Some advanced versions also include defensive tools like radar jammers, flare dispensers, and decoys to avoid missile attacks.
Pakistan’s AWACS Fleet
Pakistan reportedly owns nine AWACS aircraft. The country first bought four Saab 2000 Erieye systems from Sweden in 2006. It added more of these over the years, with the last one arriving on July 2, 2024.
Previously, Pakistan had also purchased four ZDK-03 AWACS from China in 2008, but those were retired in 2023.
The Saab 2000 Erieye can scan an area of 500,000 square kilometres horizontally and up to 60,000 feet vertically. Its radar offers high-speed, accurate tracking and works in all weather. According to Saab, the aircraft uses S-band technology for consistent performance.
If India did shoot down an AWACS, it was most likely one of the Erieye planes still in active use.
Why Is This Loss a Big Blow for Pakistan?
Losing an AWACS aircraft is a major setback for Pakistan’s air force. These systems are critical for identifying incoming threats and coordinating air defence responses. With tensions rising, the conflict is increasingly being fought in the air. By taking down this key asset, India has shown its military strength and strategic advantage. It’s not just stopping threats—India is also weakening the enemy’s ability to fight back. As the situation continues to unfold, this incident may shift the balance further in India’s favour.
