Operation Sindoor: What is an ELINT, AEW&C aircraft and the significance of IAF’s strike

The destruction of an ELINT or AEW&C aircraft carries strategic impact by diminishing the opponent’s surveillance reach, defensive coordination, and threat response capabilities

Marking what may be one of the most significant revelations of the recent India-Pakistan conflict, the Indian Air Force (IAF) stated it had registered the biggest surface-to-air kill on record.

The comments were made by the chief of the air staff, chief marshal AP Singh, at a gathering in Bengaluru.

During Operation Sindoor, the IAF carried out a long-range strike from around 300 kilometres, downing what it suspects was an ELINT or AEW&C aircraft – both regarded as high-value command and surveillance platforms.

“We have at least five fighters confirmed kills and one large aircraft, which could be either an ELINT aircraft or an AEW&C aircraft… taken on at a distance of about 300 kilometres,” Singh said.

The operation also resulted in a large number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones and some of their missiles falling into the Indian territory.

According to Singh, the operation also struck vital Pakistan Air Force bases. At Shahbaz Jacobabad airfield, half an F-16 hangar was demolished, damaging aircraft within, and two command and control centres along with six radar systems were also neutralised.

What is an ELINT aircraft?

ELINT stands for Electronic Intelligence, involving aircraft that gather and analyse signals from hostile radars, communication systems, and air defence infrastructure.

By mapping an opponent’s surveillance network, ELINT aircraft supply crucial data that allows military planners to avoid detection and execute targeted strikes.

What is an AEW&C aircraft and its role in air battles?

AEW&C stands for Airborne Early Warning and Control, describing aircraft fitted with powerful radars that can spot and track numerous targets across air, sea, and land over extended ranges.

These AEW&C systems serve as airborne control centres, enabling early spotting of hostile aircraft, directing fighter responses, and orchestrating large-scale missions as they unfold.

What this means for India

The destruction of an ELINT or AEW&C aircraft carries strategic impact by diminishing the opponent’s surveillance reach, defensive coordination, and threat response capabilities.

The IAF carried out precision strikes on multiple targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir linked to terror groups. The operation was aimed to destroy terror infrastructure, neutralise key operatives and send a clear message that cross-border terrorism would invite decisive retaliation.