In a strategic move aimed at enhancing indigenous surveillance capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed the acquisition of TAPAS drones.
Acquisition Plan
- Quantity and Allocation: The proposal involves purchasing 10 TAPAS drones, with six designated for the IAF and four for the Indian Navy.
- Lead Agency: The IAF will spearhead the induction and acquisition process of these Made-in-India drones.
Technical Details and Development
- Classification: TAPAS drones are classified as medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drones.
- Development: Developed by DRDO, manufacturing will be handled by a consortium of Bharat Electronics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
- Purpose: Designed for surveillance similar to the General Atomics MQ-1 Predator.
Operational Deployment and Challenges
- Current Status: Although not fully meeting current requirements, initial induction aims to facilitate upgrades for broader operational needs.
- Existing Fleet: IAF currently operates Israeli-origin drones and plans to induct American Predator MQ-9B drones.
Strategic Impact
- Surveillance Enhancement: Deployment of indigenous TAPAS drones will bolster unmanned surveillance capabilities, particularly on India’s northern and western fronts.
- Strategic Initiatives: IAF’s commitment to Make in India initiative, with substantial orders already placed for indigenous defence equipment.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What is the primary purpose of TAPAS drones?
- A) Reconnaissance
- B) Combat operations
- C) Cargo transport
- D) Airspace security
- Answer: A) Reconnaissance
- Which consortium is responsible for manufacturing TAPAS drones?
- A) Tata Group and Lockheed Martin
- B) Bharat Electronics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
- C) Boeing and Airbus
- D) Reliance Industries and BAE Systems
- Answer: B) Bharat Electronics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
- Which defense organization developed TAPAS drones?
- A) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- B) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
- C) Indian Navy
- D) Ministry of Defence (MoD)
- Answer: B) Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)