India’s Indigenous MALE Drone: Drishti 10 Starliner
1. What is the Drishti 10 Starliner?
The Drishti 10 Starliner is an indigenous Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) developed for the Indian Navy by Adani Defence and Aerospace, with technology transfer from Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems. It is designed to enhance India’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, especially in the Indian Ocean region.
2. What are the capabilities of the Drishti 10 Starliner?
The Drishti 10 Starliner is equipped with advanced sensors, enhanced endurance, and superior communication capabilities. It has an endurance of 36 hours, can carry a payload of up to 450 kg, and can be operated from various naval air stations across India. The UAV can also be weaponized if required.
3. How does the Drishti 10 Starliner contribute to the Indian Navy’s capabilities?
The drone is expected to be a potent force multiplier for the Indian Navy, adding significant capability and credibility in conducting ISR missions across the Indian Ocean region. It complements the existing fleet of maritime surveillance aircraft and other ISR assets, thereby enhancing maritime security.
4. How indigenous is the Drishti 10 Starliner?
The Drishti 10 Starliner is 70% indigenous, showcasing India’s capability in developing and manufacturing sophisticated defense technology domestically.
5. What are the strategic implications of deploying the Drishti 10 Starliner?
Deploying the Drishti 10 Starliner bolsters India’s maritime surveillance and security, particularly in the face of growing maritime threats in the Indian Ocean region. It reflects India’s strategic intent to enhance autonomous ISR capabilities, ensuring maritime domain awareness and security.
6. Are there plans for more Drishti 10 Starliner drones?
Yes, the Indian Navy and the Army have ordered a total of four drones initially, with the navy already having received its first UAV. There is a broader requirement for around 100 such drones to fulfill the armed forces’ needs.
7. How does the Drishti 10 Starliner fit into India’s defense export ambitions?
The successful development and operationalization of the Drishti 10 Starliner underscore India’s progress towards self-reliance in defense technology. It also positions India as a potential exporter of defense technology, aligning with the country’s ambition to become a key player in the global defense market.
8. What makes the Drishti 10 Starliner unique compared to other UAVs?
The Drishti 10 Starliner’s high degree of indigenization, combined with its advanced ISR capabilities, endurance, and flexibility for operation across naval air stations, make it a unique and valuable asset for the Indian Navy and a notable achievement in India’s defense technology sector.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Drishti 10 Starliner marks a significant milestone in India’s defense technology capabilities, enhancing the nation’s maritime surveillance and security. It represents a key step towards achieving technological self-reliance and positions India on a path to becoming a significant player in the international defense industry.
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