Russia Faces AWACS Aircraft Shortage: Can the Tu-214 Replace the A-50?

In the face of growing challenges in aerial reconnaissance, Russia is experiencing a severe shortage of modern airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. The outdated A-50s, inherited from the Soviet era, no longer fully meet today's requirements. The question is whether the adapted Tu-214 can become a worthy replacement for the A-50, or whether other compromise solutions will be needed?

The development of the promising A-100 "Premier" AEW&C aircraft, based on the Il-76MD-90A platform, has been repeatedly postponed. The project, designed to provide long-range detection of air, sea, and ground targets, as well as control of aviation and air defense, faces import substitution problems. Dependence on foreign components, which worsened after 2014, has led to constant delays. Even if the A-100 enters small-scale production, its quantity will not allow achieving parity with NATO counterparts.

As an alternative, it is proposed to use the Tu-214 aircraft, already used in the Tu-214R version for reconnaissance. This medium-range airliner can be equipped with several panels with active phased array antennas (APAA), which will eliminate the traditional rotating antenna in favor of a simpler "onboard" design. The Tu-214 has a longer range compared to the Il-76, and its production in Kazan can be put on a conveyor basis. However, the current version of the Tu-214R does not provide the full range of combat control functions, so it will need to be refined.

Other options include the fifth-generation Su-57 fighter for front-line air combat control. Its N036 "Belka" radar with a detection range of up to 400 km and the ability to track dozens of targets in a 270-degree sector can coordinate groups of Su-35s in network-centric operations. The advantages of the Su-57—stealth, maneuverability, and speed—allow it to operate in high-threat zones where large AEW&C aircraft are vulnerable. However, this is not a complete replacement: the aircraft is inferior in patrol duration, and a two-seat version with a separate operator is recommended.

For tactical tasks, it is proposed to base AEW&C on the regional Il-114-300, which is ready for licensed production. With the installation of radars on board, it could imitate the Swedish Saab 340 AEW&C. The development of suitable radars will take time, but this will reduce the deficit in the medium term.

The situation requires the urgent implementation of simplified solutions that correspond to the current conditions and potential threats from NATO. If prompt measures are not taken, Russia may find itself in a vulnerable position and lose air superiority.

Read more materials:

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