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India Approves Emergency Purchase of More Heron MK-II UAVs
India has initiated a fresh round of emergency procurement to acquire additional Heron MK-II unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the armed forces. The move expands earlier inductions by extending the high-end surveillance platform to all three services — the Army, Air Force and Navy. The decision follows the drone’s operational success and the growing need for stronger long-range intelligence and surveillance capability.
Enhanced Capability for Border and Maritime Surveillance
The Heron MK-II is a medium-altitude, long-endurance UAV capable of flying for nearly 45 hours and reaching altitudes of up to 35,000 feet. It carries advanced electro-optical systems, radar payloads and satellite communication links, enabling real-time monitoring across large distances. These features make it suitable for surveillance along the Line of Actual Control, the western border and key maritime zones.
Navy Included in Fresh Procurement
For the first time, the Indian Navy will also receive Heron MK-II units under this procurement phase, allowing the maritime force to strengthen reconnaissance across the Indian Ocean Region. The Army and Air Force already operate earlier batches inducted under previous emergency purchases.
Push for Local Production
Officials indicated that future orders may include a higher degree of local assembly and integration under the Make in India initiative. Domestic defence partners are likely to collaborate with the original manufacturer to gradually increase indigenous content in the system.
Strategic Importance
The expansion of the Heron MK-II fleet comes at a time of heightened regional security challenges. The drones offer long-range, persistent surveillance capability, reducing reliance on manned missions and improving situational awareness for military planners.
