SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Navy is actively exploring the development of long-range unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) capable of sustained surveillance over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) while offering quicker reaction times. This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime domain awareness and bolster capabilities in monitoring naval activities in the region.
The Navy has already set plans to acquire the MQ-9 Reaper drones for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles. However, officials are also looking at larger, jet-powered unmanned platforms that can address gaps in operational speed and range. A naval official, speaking to idrw.org, highlighted the limitations of High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) UAVs powered by turboprop engines, which, while suitable for persistent monitoring, lack the speed required to rapidly reach distant areas of interest.
To achieve this capability, the Navy plans to engage with Indian industrial players to conceptualize and develop HALE-class UAVs powered by jet or turbofan engines. The initiative aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defence technologies under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” mission.
The Navy’s requirements include:
- Extended Range: To cover vast areas of the IOR.
- High Speed: To reduce reaction time and enable rapid deployment.
- Advanced ISR Capabilities: Equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and communication systems.
Indian defence and aerospace companies, including state-owned and private-sector players, are likely to be key partners in this endeavour. Collaborative efforts with international technology providers may also be considered to accelerate development timelines.
The IOR’s geostrategic significance, coupled with the increasing presence of foreign naval forces, underscores the need for advanced ISR platforms. The ability to maintain real-time situational awareness across the region is critical for India’s maritime security and power projection.
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