SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s journey towards developing an indigenous unmanned air vehicle (UAV) program has encountered its fair share of challenges over the past two decades. However, recent developments indicate a turning point, as the country makes significant strides in its UAV capabilities. With the introduction of programs like MALE Tapas and Archer-Ng, and plans to develop High-Altitude, Long-Endurance (HALE) class UAVs, India is poised to make substantial progress with the support of American defence contractor General Atomics.
India’s decision to procure 31 MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAVs from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) marks a significant milestone in the country’s UAV program. The establishment of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, coupled with collaborations with Indian private sector companies like Kalyani, showcases India’s commitment to local manufacturing and self-reliance in the UAV domain. This move will not only strengthen India’s defence capabilities but also foster technological advancements within the country.
The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of India has put forth a proposal to develop a HALE-class UAV in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Taking feedback from the Indian Armed Forces regarding configuration and staff requirements, this initiative aims to enhance India’s UAV capabilities further. The acquisition of MQ-9B SeaGuardian UAVs from General Atomics is expected to provide valuable insights and contribute to the advancement of India’s own HALE Class UAV program. Both turboprop and turbofan variants are being considered to cater to diverse operational needs.
The collaboration with General Atomics presents a significant opportunity for India to benefit from the technological expertise of an established UAV manufacturer. This partnership can contribute to knowledge transfer, skill development, and the acquisition of advanced technologies. By leveraging General Atomics’ experience, India can accelerate its UAV program’s progress and ensure the development of cutting-edge systems capable of meeting diverse operational requirements.
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