In a concerning development for India’s military drone program, a critical security breach along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir has exposed severe vulnerabilities in late 2024. A surveillance drone, initially thought to have malfunctioned, was revealed to have been hijacked through compromised Chinese components, allowing Pakistani operators to seize control. This incident followed earlier breaches near the LAC with China in eastern Ladakh, where two tactical drones failed to launch due to similar security issues.
Immediate Impact and Military Response
The security breach prompted immediate action from the Indian Army, leading to the suspension of multiple procurement orders, including a strategic contract for 200 medium-altitude logistics drones intended for LAC deployment. The Ministry of Defence’s investigation revealed an alarming dependence on Chinese components among Indian drone manufacturers.
Major General C.S. Mann of the Army Design Bureau (ADB) is spearheading efforts to develop a comprehensive framework to eliminate Chinese equipment from military systems. This initiative will extend across all military branches, including the Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard.
Understanding the Security Threats
Security experts have identified two categories of vulnerable components:
1. Active Components:
– Processors and communication modules capable of intercepting surveillance data
– Flight control units and sensors vulnerable to hijacking
– Memory storage devices susceptible to data theft
2. Passive Components:
– PCBs potentially harboring hidden spyware
– Motors and power systems designed to fail during critical missions
– Basic electronic components with compromised reliability
Policy Reforms and Industry Response
The Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020 (DAP-2020) requires products to have more than 50% Indigenous Content (IC). However, Group Captain R.K. Narang points out significant policy flaws, including loopholes that allow minimally indigenous products to qualify as IDDM. In response, the MoD tightened procurement norms in November 2023, though compliance verification remains challenging.
Leading Indigenous Manufacturers
Several Indian companies are pioneering domestic drone development:
– ZUPPA Geo Navigation Technologies: Developing hacking-proof drones in collaboration with the Indian Army
– IG Drones : Provide advanced drone technology and AI solutions for defense and industrial applications.
– Eagle UAV: Creating systems for surveillance and counter-terrorism operations
– IDEAFORGE: Producing high-performance Netra and Raven drones
– Aero360: Specializing in long-endurance surveillance drones
– Sagar Defence Engineering: Developing tactical UAVs for the Indian Navy
– RAKSHAK: Focusing on border security drones
– ZOHO Coproration : Chennai based software solution company
Future Opportunities and Investment
The Indian drone market is projected to exceed $40 billion over the next decade. The government’s initiatives include:
– Rs 3,000 crore investment for 2,500 military drones
– Production-Linked Incentive scheme
– Reformed Drone Rules, 2021
– Support for research and development
Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi’s vision of “an eagle on the arm of every soldier” underscores the military’s commitment to drone technology. With the US and Russia planning to procure over one million drones each, India aims to position itself as a trusted global manufacturer.
Challenges and Path Forward
While an immediate ban on Chinese components would increase costs and cause delays, experts emphasise the necessity of complete indignation. The road-map includes:
– Developing domestic manufacturing capabilities
– Implementing centralised procurement
– Ensuring standardization across military units
– Strengthening cyber-security frameworks
– Building a network of trusted suppliers
The recent security breaches have served as a catalyst for transformation in India’s drone ecosystem. With continued government support, industry collaboration, and technological innovation, India’s drone program is positioning itself to achieve true technological sovereignty while establishing the country as a global leader in secure, reliable drone systems.
