India to boost drone capabilities amid growing threats from China, Pakistan
In a bid to strengthen its defence against rising drone threats, the government has approved emergency purchases of Remotely Piloted Aerial Vehicles (RPAVs) worth Rs 2,000 crore, a Defence Ministry statement said on Thursday.The decision comes over a month after Pakistan launched a barrage of drones to attack Indian military and civilian targets during the conflict in the aftermath of India's Operation Sindoor precision strikes on Pakistani terror infrastructure in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.advertisementThe funds will be used to equip the Army with advanced technologies, including Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS), to detect and neutralise hostile drone threats.
The growing use of drones in warfare has raised concerns, especially with reports indicating that China is building a massive drone force estimated at around one million units.On the other hand, Pakistan has also reportedly acquired over 50,000 drones from China and Turkey, which could possibly be used for surveillance and combat missions against India.To meet these challenges, India is investing in RPAVs, loitering munitions, and combat drones for various military applications. These systems will enhance India's surveillance and strike capabilities along sensitive border areas.The government is also promoting domestic drone manufacturing to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. India's private defence manufacturers are also developing drone solutions for both defence and civilian use, including surveillance and infrastructure monitoring.With growing tensions along its borders, India's efforts to modernise and expand its drone capabilities mark a crucial step in safeguarding national security.- EndsMust Watch
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