SOURCE: AFI
India’s recent collaboration with Abu Dhabi’s EDGE Group for joint weapon system development opens promising avenues for the Indian Armed Forces. While specific details remain undisclosed, here are five EDGE-developed systems ideally suited for local manufacturing in India:
1. AL TARIQ: Precision on a Budget
The AL TARIQ guidance kit is a game-changer. It transforms unguided bombs into high-precision, long-range munitions. This cost-effective solution offers all-weather, day-night functionality, making it perfect for the Indian Air Force’s Mk 1A Tejas fighter jets. HAL and EDGE Group are already collaborating on AL TARIQ integration, with trials planned for later in 2024.
2. SINYAR: The Long-Range Punch
The SINYAR unmanned aerial combat vehicle (UCAV) offers a powerful force projection capability at an affordable price. Its 450kg payload capacity, long range, and long endurance make it ideal for complex missions undertaken by defense and special forces. Its high fuel efficiency, simple maintenance, and ability to operate from unpaved airstrips enhance its operational value.
3. REACH-S: Eyes on the Battlefield
The REACH-S is a fixed-wing Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) UAV designed for tactical Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions and light ground attacks. With 24-hour endurance and a 200km range, it provides crucial intel for battlefield awareness. Earlier reports suggested EDGE Group’s interest in co-developing this UAV with HAL, and with Adani Defence in the picture, this project might gain new momentum.
4. Armed Robotic Vehicle (ARV): Unmanned Ground Dominance
The ARV is an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) based on the NIMR Ajban 440 platform. It integrates a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS), offering a mobile, rapidly deployable solution for ground combat. This system would be a valuable asset for the Indian Army, particularly in high-risk situations.
5. Air Truck: Delivering Power and Efficiency
The Air Truck is a powerful logistics UAV with a 500kg payload capacity. This versatile platform can operate autonomously or via live operator control, making it suitable for high-risk resupply missions. The Indian military’s logistical needs could be significantly enhanced by locally producing this system.
The collaboration between Adani Defence and EDGE Group presents a strategic opportunity for India to strengthen its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities. Focusing on these five weapon systems would provide the Indian Armed Forces with advanced technology while fostering self-reliance in critical defense sectors.