The Indian Air Force aims to enhance its surveillance capabilities with the procurement of Tapas drones developed by DRDO, with plans for manufacturing by Bharat Electronics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. This proposed acquisition signifies a move towards bolstering indigenous unmanned aerial capabilities.
Indian Air Force Proposes Acquisition of Indigenous Tapas Drones
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed the procurement of 10 Tapas drones, aiming to enhance indigenous unmanned surveillance capabilities. This proposal, submitted to the central government, includes six drones for the IAF and four for the Indian Navy. The Tapas drones, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), are categorized as medium-altitude, long-endurance drones. They will be manufactured by a consortium of Bharat Electronics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
The Tapas drones have been tested but have not fully met the defence forces’ requirements. Despite this, the initial inductions aim to facilitate further upgrades and refinements. The IAF currently operates Israeli-origin drones and is considering future acquisition of American Predator MQ-9B drones. The indigenous Tapas drones are intended to bolster surveillance on India’s northern and western fronts, while the Navy plans to use them for maritime surveillance. Delivery is expected within 24 months of contract signing.
Ukrainian Forces Destroy Russian Drone Base in Krasnodar
On June 21, Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a Russian warehouse in the Krasnodar region used for launching Iranian-made drones and training cadets. Satellite images confirmed significant damage to the facility, which was situated near a Russian airfield on the Sea of Azov. This operation was conducted in partnership with Ukrainian intelligence agencies.
In response, Russia claimed to have shot down 114 drones during Ukrainian attacks targeting oil refineries and military installations in the south, resulting in one fatality from debris. Further Ukrainian drone attacks in Russia’s Belgorod region caused additional casualties and damage. Concurrently, a missile strike in occupied Crimea killed two people, including a two-year-old. In Kyiv, a Russian missile and drone attack injured two people and caused extensive damage to residential buildings.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated calls for Western nations to provide new air defense systems, particularly the US-made Patriot systems. The ongoing conflict underscores the escalating drone and missile warfare between the two nations.
