India's Army to Receive Loitering Munitions Worth $1,577 Crore

India's defense ministry is bolstering the army's offensive power by acquiring loitering munitions, also known as kamikaze drones. Two contracts totaling ₹1,577 crore were signed Friday with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Nibe Pvt Ltd.

The ministry stated the loitering munition system is critical for enhancing artillery regiments and overall operational effectiveness. This acquisition comes as the army plans to induct tens of thousands of locally-made unmanned aerial systems and loitering munitions over the next five years. These systems have significantly impacted modern warfare, as seen in ongoing global conflicts.

“

The loitering munition system is critical equipment that can enhance the capability of artillery regiments and boost the overall operational effectiveness of the Indian Army.

Procured from Indian vendors under the "Buy Indian" scheme through a fast-track procedure, the deals are intended to strengthen India's self-reliance in defense. The army's broader strategy includes acquiring 80 different types of unmanned systems for roles ranging from intelligence gathering and reconnaissance to precision strikes and logistics, as outlined in a technology roadmap released in April. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has previously stated India's ambition to become a global drone manufacturing hub by 2030.

“

Procured from Indian vendors under the ‘Buy Indian’ scheme through a fast-track procedure, this initiative will further strengthen the vision of self-reliance in defence.