India Cracks Down on Chinese Components in Military Drones
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India has taken a decisive step to safeguard its military technology by banning Chinese components in drones meant for defence operations. In a bold move, the Army has scrapped contracts worth over Rs 230 crore for 400 logistics drones that were found to contain Chinese electronics. This signals a strong push towards securing India’s defence ecosystem from potential cybersecurity threats.
Why This Ban Matters
The contracts in question included 200 medium-altitude, 100 heavy-weight, and 100 light-weight drones, all intended for deployment along the tense 3,488-km Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. However, an investigation revealed that some Indian manufacturers were using Chinese components, raising concerns over national security.
Officials warn that drones with foreign electronics pose severe risks, including the possibility of an adversary remotely hijacking or disabling them. Instances like the August 2023 incident, where a VTOL UAV lost control and veered into Pakistan-occupied J&K, further highlight these vulnerabilities.
Strengthening Security Measures
To mitigate these threats, the Indian defence establishment has tightened procurement policies. Manufacturers are now required to provide comprehensive certifications ensuring the absence of Chinese components or malicious codes. Additionally, the procurement process will include stringent counter-checks and technical verifications.
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The defence ministry’s Department of Defence Production has also urged industry bodies like FICCI, CII, and Assocham to caution their members against using Chinese parts in defence equipment. This move reinforces India’s vision of an independent and self-sufficient defence manufacturing sector.
India’s Expanding Drone Program
Despite these challenges, India continues to bolster its drone capabilities. The armed forces are investing in a wide range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including:
The Future of India’s Defence Tech
India’s commitment to self-reliance through initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ is reshaping the defence landscape. Eliminating foreign vulnerabilities in military technology is crucial to securing national interests. This latest move isn’t just about banning Chinese components—it’s about fortifying India’s position as a global leader in defence innovation.