Defence📖 3 min read

Indian Army to Acquire Kamikaze Drones Worth 1,577 Crore

The Indian Army is set to boost its combat capabilities with a significant acquisition of kamikaze drones, strengthening its defence under the 'Buy Indian' scheme.

Source: HT India News
Summary of News

The Indian Army is procuring a large number of kamikaze drones, also known as loitering munitions, at a cost of 1,577 crore. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernize the Indian Army and enhance its operational readiness. These drones are crucial for military operations due to their ability to precisely strike targets. The purchase is being made under the 'Buy Indian' scheme, which prioritizes indigenous defence manufacturing and procurement. This move aligns with India's goal of becoming a global hub for defence production and reducing reliance on foreign imports. The Indian Army's focus on advanced drone technology reflects the changing nature of modern warfare and the need for sophisticated unmanned systems.

Why It Matters

This acquisition is important for exam aspirants as it highlights India's defence modernization efforts and the 'Make in India' initiative in the defence sector. It links to UPSC GS Paper III (Security) and SSC General Awareness (Defence). Understanding the 'Buy Indian' scheme and the role of drones in modern warfare is crucial for competitive exams. It also shows India's push towards self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

Key Points for Exam
  • Indian Army is acquiring kamikaze drones worth 1,577 crore.
  • The drones are being procured under the 'Buy Indian' scheme.
  • Kamikaze drones are also known as loitering munitions.
  • The acquisition aims to enhance the Indian Army's combat capabilities.
  • This move supports India's goal of becoming a global defence manufacturing hub.
  • The purchase reflects the growing impact of drone systems on military operations.
Important Keywords Explained
Kamikaze Dronesconcept

Kamikaze drones, or loitering munitions, are unmanned aerial vehicles designed to loiter over a target area and then crash into a target to detonate an explosive warhead. They combine the features of a reconnaissance drone and a guided missile, offering precision strike capabilities and reducing risk to personnel.

'Buy Indian' Schemescheme

The 'Buy Indian' scheme is a category under India's Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP). It prioritizes procurement from Indian vendors, encouraging indigenous design, development, and manufacturing of defence equipment. The scheme aims to boost self-reliance and reduce import dependency in the defence sector.

Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)concept

The Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) is a comprehensive framework issued by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. It outlines the policies and procedures for capital acquisition for the Indian Armed Forces. DAP aims to ensure transparency, efficiency, and timely procurement of defence equipment while promoting indigenous manufacturing.

Additional Facts & Context
1India aims for a defence manufacturing turnover of $25 billion by 2025.
2The 'Make in India' initiative was launched in 2014 to boost domestic manufacturing.
3The Ministry of Defence has set a target of 1.75 lakh crore (US$25 billion) in defence production by 2025.
4India was the world's largest arms importer between 2018-2022, according to SIPRI.
Examiner's Tip

Exams often ask about defence modernization, 'Make in India' in defence, and specific defence schemes like 'Buy Indian'. Be prepared for questions on the types of military equipment and their strategic importance.

🧠
Memory Trick

Remember 'Kamikaze' for 'Crash' and 'Kill' drones that crash into targets. 'Buy Indian' means 'Bharat First' in defence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are kamikaze drones and how do they work in military operations?

Kamikaze drones, also known as loitering munitions, are unmanned aerial vehicles that can fly over a target area for an extended period. They are designed to identify a target and then directly crash into it, detonating an onboard explosive. This provides precise strike capabilities and minimizes risk to human pilots.

What is the 'Buy Indian' scheme in defence procurement?

The 'Buy Indian' scheme is a procurement category under India's Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP). It mandates that defence equipment must be purchased from Indian vendors, with a focus on indigenous design, development, and manufacturing. Its primary goal is to promote self-reliance and reduce India's dependence on foreign defence imports.

Why is India focusing on becoming a global hub for defence production?

India is focusing on becoming a global hub for defence production to achieve self-reliance in critical defence technologies, reduce its import bill, and create employment opportunities. This strategy also aims to boost exports of Indian-made defence equipment, strengthening the nation's strategic autonomy and economic growth.

Connected Concepts / Topics
Get direct updates on TelegramDaily current affairs + quiz + monthly PDFs — 100% freeJoin Channel →