The Indian military has reportedly reduced its requirement for Predator drones from 30 to 18. The decision was made in light of budget constraints and concerns over technological challenges.
The drones, which are manufactured by General Atomics, were originally intended to be used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations along India’s borders. However, the high cost of the drones, coupled with concerns over data security and operational challenges, led the military to reconsider its requirements.
The decision to reduce the number of Predator drones has been met with mixed reactions. Some experts have criticized the move, arguing that India needs a larger fleet of drones to monitor its borders and counter security threats. Others have welcomed the decision, arguing that the focus should be on developing indigenous drone technology rather than relying on imported systems.
The Indian military has been seeking to expand its drone capabilities in recent years, as part of a broader effort to modernize its armed forces and enhance its operational capabilities. In addition to the Predator drones, the military has also been testing other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for a range of applications, including strike missions and cargo delivery.
Despite the challenges and setbacks, the development of drone technology is seen as a critical component of India’s national security strategy. The use of drones for surveillance and reconnaissance is expected to play an increasingly important role in border security and counterterrorism operations, and there is a growing demand for indigenous drone technology to support these efforts.
