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, featuring technology transfer from the Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems. This UAV is specifically designed to bolster India’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, particularly in the Indian Ocean region.
The Drishti 10 Starliner boasts advanced sensors, enhanced endurance, and superior communication capabilities. It has an impressive endurance of 36 hours, can carry a payload of up to 450 kg, and is operable from various naval air stations across India. Additionally, this UAV can be weaponized if the operational need arises.
This drone is anticipated to serve as a potent force multiplier for the Indian Navy, significantly enhancing its capability and credibility in conducting ISR missions throughout the Indian Ocean region. It complements the existing fleet of maritime surveillance aircraft and other ISR assets, thereby improving overall maritime security.
The Drishti 10 Starliner is 70% indigenous, highlighting India’s capability to develop and manufacture advanced defense technology domestically.
Deploying the Drishti 10 Starliner significantly enhances India’s maritime surveillance and security, especially in light of increasing maritime threats in the Indian Ocean region. It reflects India's strategic intent to fortify autonomous ISR capabilities, ensuring comprehensive maritime domain awareness.
Yes, the Indian Navy and the Army have initially ordered a total of four Drishti 10 Starliner drones, with the navy already having received its first UAV. There exists a broader requirement for approximately 100 such drones to meet the needs of the armed forces.
The successful development and operationalization of the Drishti 10 Starliner reflect India’s strides towards self-reliance in defense technology. It positions India as a potential exporter of defense technology, aligning with the country’s ambition to emerge as a key player in the global defense market.
The Drishti 10 Starliner stands out due to its high degree of indigenization, advanced ISR capabilities, endurance, and operational flexibility across various naval air stations, making it a unique asset for the Indian Navy and a significant achievement in India’s defense technology sector.
The introduction of the Drishti 10 Starliner marks a pivotal milestone in India’s defense technology capabilities, enhancing the nation’s maritime surveillance and security. It signifies a crucial step towards achieving technological self-reliance and positions India on a trajectory to become a significant entity in the international defense industry.
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