Army Will Acquire 850 Indigenous Kamikaze Drones Worth Rs 2000 Crore

The Indian Army, in a move to improve its military prowess, will acquire 850 kamikaze drones worth Rs 2000 crore. Leveraging lessons from India's ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Indian Armed Forces is strengthening its defence forces. The acquisition will be cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council later this month, will be a big step in India's approach to contemporary warfare. 

According to reports, indigenous drones, sourced from domestic manufacturers, will equip the Army, Navy, and Air Force with pioneering technology to tackle emerging threats. The deal is another instance of India's push for self-reliance in defence production, aligning with the government's 'Make in India' initiative. As the nation seeks to strengthen its position in the region, the kamikaze drones will provide a strategic edge, enable accurate strikes and minimizing collateral damage. The Army's experience throughout Operation Sindoor, where drones played a vital role in targeting terrorist hideouts, has informed this decision.

The Indian Army, with plans to invest 30,000 loitering munitions in the near future, is bringing a key change in warfare competencies. The drones will be integrated into infantry battalions, with each unit forming an Ashni platoon dedicated to working these unmanned aerial vehicles. 

What Are Kamikaze Drones?

The officials stated that Kamikaze drones are drones designed to hover over a target area before crashing into it with explosive payloads. They are cost-effective, high-precision tools used for surveillance and strikes, diminishing collateral damage.

As officials stated, the Army plans to have each infantry battalion include an Ashni platoon accountable for operating these drones against enemy locations and in counterinsurgency roles, with the induction of about 30,000 loitering munitions in the near future.

Kamikaze Drones Effectiveness During Operation Sindoor

The Indian Army has formerly used drones efficiently during Operation Sindoor, targeting terror headquarters inside Pakistan and neutralizing 7-9 terrorist targets. The drones also took on the Pakistan Army, causing enormous damage and casualties. The drones will be sourced from indigenous manufacturers, aligning with India's push for self-dependence in defence technology. Companies such as InsideFPV Ventures and Maharshi Industries are leading the expansion of affordable, high-precision kamikaze drones priced at about $400 per unit.

Source: Republic Bharat