The Russian Aerospace Forces have received a modernised long-range airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft designated as an A-50U from the “Rostec” State Corporation.
The A-50U is an updated long-range airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft that has been delivered to the military by the ‘Ruselectronics’ holding and the United Aircraft Corporation, both of which are part of the ‘Rostec’ organisation. According to the press office of the “Rostec” State Corporation, the aircraft can detect new aircraft types and track more targets and guided fighters concurrently than the previous modification (A-50).
Rostec stated that the use of modern equipment has resulted in the reduction of the aircraft’s overall weight, as well as an increase in both the flight range and the amount of time spent in the air while completing combat missions.
The ergonomics of the aircraft were upgraded, new electronics were installed, and larger LCD monitors were installed to lessen the amount of crew fatigue. In addition, a whole new piloting and navigation system complex has been installed in the A-50U.
The upgrades have increased the speed at which it can identify air, ground, and sea targets and their range, allowing it to combat the enemy effectively.
According to Vyacheslav Mikheyev, the chief designer at “Vega,” which is a subsidiary of “Ruselectronics,” modernised long-range airborne early warning and control aircraft A-50Us can quickly detect airborne objects in the area of special operations in Ukraine.
During the modernisation of the A-50, the “Vega” concern is enhancing the “Shmel” radio-technical complex, including the radar systems located in the nose fairing in the shape of a disc, a distinguishing external feature of this type of aircraft.
Upgrading of a second A-50 complex is nearing completion, Mikheyev said. The United Aircraft Corporation was also involved in the process.