800 Swarm Drone Systems are in the Pipeline, IAF is Preparing for Major Deployments
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to acquire 800 Medium Range Swarm Unmanned Munition Systems (SUMS). According to a report, these swarm drones can target enemy positions at ranges of over 350 kilometres with pinpoint accuracy. These drones, equipped with loitering munitions, locate enemy positions, identify them and then attack them with pinpoint accuracy, destroying them. This System can Deploy 20 Drones at a Time According to a Tribune India report, each Medium Range Swarm Unmanned Munition System (SUMS) can deploy a swarm of at least 20 drones in sequence. They can hover for at least half an hour over a designated area of over 350 kilometres, identify targets and then launch a full-scale attack. They can identify both stationary and moving targets. These Swarm Drones are Extremely Lethal According to a Request for Proposals received by the Ministry of Defence on October 25, these drones will jam enemy air defence systems, evade radar and enable the Indian Air Force to target enemy command-and-control systems within a few hours. The Air Force requires fixed-wing drones that can run on both jet engines and batteries. These drones can carry weapons weighing up to 30 kg. They will also be equipped with essential sensors, electronic jammers, communication systems, and navigation equipment. They Can Fly in Temperatures Ranging from -20°C to 50°C These drones will operate effectively at altitudes ranging from sea level to 16,000 feet. They can be launched and recovered from rough roads and ship decks. These drones will operate reliably over a temperature range of -20°C to 50°C. The Rising of Drones in Modern Warfare Drones have transformed battlefields in the modern era. They are used for attacks, surveillance and even for cargo transportation. Following their success in Operation Sindoor and ongoing conflicts with other countries, drones have been adopted by every branch of the Indian Army. They are seen as cost-effective and a tool that reduces risk for soldiers. Source : Navbharat Times