Indian Army Secures Indigenous Drone Technology Contract

Recent developments in India’s drone technology sector highlight shift towards indigenous manufacturing. The Indian Army has awarded a contract to IG Drones for the supply of Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) and First-Person View (FPV) drones. This move comes in response to national security concerns, particularly after incidents involving the hijacking of Army drones near the Pakistan border. The emphasis on domestic production aims to eliminate reliance on foreign, particularly Chinese, components.

Indigenous Drone Specifications

• The VTOL drones developed by IG Drones have a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of 6 kg and can operate for up to one hour.
• They are designed for versatility and operational longevity.
• Their ability to perform vertical take-offs and landings allows them to function in areas lacking runways.
• The FPV drones provide real-time reconnaissance, enhancing tactical intelligence while keeping personnel safe from direct threats.

National Security and Drone Technology

The recent hijacking incident has intensified scrutiny over the components used in military drones. The Indian Army is now prioritising drones that are free from Chinese-origin parts. This is important step in ensuring national security amidst rising tensions along international borders. The Army’s focus on indigenous technology reflects a broader strategy to boost defence capabilities.

Growth of the Drone Industry in India

India’s drone start-up ecosystem has experienced rapid growth, with the number of companies doubling over three years. As of August 2024, India boasts 398 drone start-ups, surpassing China’s 298. This growth marks a burgeoning industry that is increasingly capable of meeting domestic defence needs. The emphasis on certified and reliable companies is vital for maintaining security standards.

Components and Manufacturing Practices

While IG Drones manufactures its drones domestically, some components, such as cameras, are imported. However, these components are not sourced from China. The company has also focused on sourcing motors locally, which puts stress on its commitment to indigenous manufacturing. The Indian Army’s stringent checks during trials ensure compliance with security standards.

Operational Advantages of VTOL and FPV Drones

The hybrid design of the VTOL Skyhawk combines fixed-wing and rotor-powered flight, providing unmatched surveillance capabilities. This design is particularly effective in challenging terrains. The FPV drones allow for precise intelligence gathering, making them essential tools for modern warfare and reconnaissance missions.

Regulatory Environment and Industry Standards

The Indian Army has cautioned against the white labelling of UAVs. This regulatory stance aims to ensure that military drones meet high standards of security and reliability. The Army’s proactive approach in scrutinising drone technology is vital for safeguarding national interests.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of indigenous drone technology on India’s national security strategy.
2. What are the operational advantages of Vertical Take-Off and Landing drones? How do they compare with traditional drones?
3. Estimate the significance of the growth of drone start-ups in India for its defence sector.
4. Point out the challenges faced by the Indian Army in ensuring the security of its drone technology.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of indigenous drone technology on India’s national security strategy.

1. Indigenous drone technology reduces reliance on foreign components, particularly Chinese, enhancing security.
2. Recent incidents, like drone hijacking, highlight vulnerabilities that indigenous solutions aim to mitigate.
3. Focus on domestic production aligns with broader defense strategies to strengthen national capabilities.
4. Increased scrutiny and certification of drone components ensure compliance with security standards.
5. Indigenous technology encourages innovation and self-reliance, contributing to strategic autonomy in defense.

2. What are the operational advantages of Vertical Take-Off and Landing drones? How do they compare with traditional drones?

1. VTOL drones can operate in confined spaces without the need for runways, enhancing versatility.
2. They offer superior endurance, with up to one hour of operational time, compared to many traditional drones.
3. VTOL drones combine fixed-wing and rotor capabilities, providing unmatched surveillance coverage.
4. They are effective in challenging terrains, making them suitable for diverse operational scenarios.
5. Real-time data collection and reconnaissance capabilities improve tactical decision-making.

3. Estimate the significance of the growth of drone start-ups in India for its defence sector.

1. The rise of 398 drone start-ups signifies a robust innovation ecosystem, surpassing China’s growth.
2. Domestic start-ups can tailor solutions to meet specific defense needs, enhancing operational capabilities.
3. Increased competition encourages technological advancements and cost-effective solutions for the military.
4. Focus on indigenous manufacturing aligns with national security goals and reduces foreign dependency.
5. Collaboration between start-ups and the military can lead to rapid development and deployment of advanced technologies.

4. Point out the challenges faced by the Indian Army in ensuring the security of its drone technology.

1. Ensuring all components are free from foreign, especially Chinese, origins poses challenge.
2. Maintaining rigorous standards for component certification and compliance during trials is resource-intensive.
3. Rapid technological advancements require continuous updates to security protocols and standards.
4. Industry practices, such as white labelling, complicate the verification of drone origins and components.
5. Geopolitical tensions necessitate constant vigilance and adaptability in drone technology and deployment strategies.