India is scheduled to receive 10 advanced Heron TP drones in the summer, India's Economic Times reported Monday. The drones were purchased from Israel in 2015 for a reported $400 million, and their delivery is scheduled to take place ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel in July, the report said. Produced by Israel Aerospace Industries, the Heron TP series of drones is IAI's most advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, designed for both reconnaissance as well as combat and support roles. The Heron has the ability to stay airborne for up to 40-hours, it has maximum takeoff weight of 5,300 kilograms (about 12,000 pounds) and a payload of 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds). The Economic Times noted that the Heron TP drones, capable of detecting, tracking and intercepting targets with air-to-surface missile, have been on the Indian military's wish list for years The report further noted that during his visit, Modi plans to "take forward the growing strategic partnership" between Israel and India The Indian Air Force also has a fleet of IAI-made Harpy unmanned aerial vehicles, but unlike the Heron, Harpy drones are not equipped with missiles, as they are designed to take out enemy radar positions. India also has a fleet of IAI Searcher surveillance and intelligence gathering drones. According to the report, the Heron drones will allow India "the option of taking out large terrorist camps or individual targets in hostile territory with minimal risk."
Report: India set to receive advanced Heron drones from Israel
India purchased 10 Heron TP drones from Israel Aerospace Industries in 2015 for a reported $400 million • Delivery may coincide with Indian PM's visit to Israel in July • India says Heron drones will allow it to neutralize terror hubs with minimal risk.
Load more...