New Delhi, The Indian Army is set to enhance its surveillance capabilities along the Punjab border through the deployment of the Drishti-10 medium-altitude, long-endurance drones. These drones, developed by the Indian firm Adani Defence, are expected to be inducted into the army within the next two to three months.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian Army has purchased two Drishti-10 drones under emergency provisions, which require more than 60 percent indigenization and adherence to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in Defence. The procurement of these drones is part of an effort to bolster the army’s surveillance capacity in the Punjab sector. This strategic deployment aims to enable extensive monitoring over a vast area, including the desert sector and regions north of Punjab.

The Indian Army’s current drone arsenal includes the Heron Mark 1 and Mark 2 drones. Additionally, the army has placed orders for the Drishti-10, also known as the Hermes900 drones, as part of the last tranche of emergency procurements authorized by the government for the forces.

Further enhancing its surveillance capabilities, the Indian Army has also acquired more satellite communication-enabled drones from Israel, including a few Heron Mark 2 birds, procured through direct deals with Israeli Aircraft Industries. The unveiling of the drones earlier this week was attended by Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and Director General Army Aviation Lt Gen Ajay Suri in Hyderabad.

The deployment of the Drishti-10 drones marks a significant step in the Indian Army’s efforts to strengthen its border surveillance and security, especially in strategically crucial areas.