long-flying drone The inaugural launch of the Drishti 10 ‘Starline’ Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for the Navy took place today, officiated by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Hari Kumar. These cutting-edge UAVs represent a significant stride in technological prowess and strategic independence, providing combat-tested, indigenous advanced aerial systems.
The Drishti 10 ‘Starline’ stands as an intelligent surveillance reconnaissance (ISR) platform capable of operating in both segregated and unsegregated airspace. Boasting a 450 kg payload capacity and a 36-hour endurance, it is the sole military platform certified under STANAG 4671, suitable for all weather conditions.
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In a historic moment for India’s pursuit of maritime supremacy and self-reliance in ISR technology, Admiral R. Hari Kumar highlighted the importance of incorporating the Drishti 10 into naval operations. The Adani Group, dedicated to autonomous systems, has diligently developed local capacities for manufacturing and maintenance and repair (MRO) over several years. The flag-off ceremony took place at the Adani Aerospace Park in Hyderabad.
Adani Defence and Aerospace have already established capabilities in various areas, including small arms, unmanned aerial vehicles, and radar defense, to support the Army and other multinational forces. India’s first unmanned vehicle manufacturing facility, first small arms manufacturing facility in the private sector, and the country’s initial comprehensive aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility have been built by Adani Defence to ensure safety and airworthiness in line with international standards.
Addressing the growing threat from rogue drones, Adani Defense is developing counter-drone systems for both military and civilian applications. With an extensive ecosystem of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capabilities across the defense supply chain, Adani Defense is well-positioned to integrate larger platforms.
The orders for the Drishti 10 Starline were secured by the Adani Group’s Defense and Aerospace division in October 2023. Referred to as “Drishti 10,” the Elbit Hermes 900 MALE (Medium Altitude Long Range) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle features high autonomy, mission effectiveness, and multiple payload configuration points.
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According to Jeet Adani, Vice President of Adani Enterprises, recent geopolitical events have strengthened the convergence of physical, informational, and cognitive tactics. This convergence is supported by intelligence, information processing capabilities, and the use of unmanned and cyber systems for the dissemination of false information.