The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has unveiled an ambitious 15-year roadmap to revolutionise its military capabilities through the deployment of drones and space-based technologies. This strategic shift, outlined in the latest Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR) 2040, marks a significant departure from traditional warfare methods, signalling a bold push towards modernising India’s defence infrastructure.
The TPCR 2040, the third iteration of its kind following versions in 2013 and 2018, outlines a comprehensive plan to acquire thousands of drones and harness outer space for surveillance, secure communication, and target identification. The document, now available on the MoD’s website, serves as a blueprint for the next 15 years, guiding the acquisition and development of cutting-edge military technologies.
At the forefront of this initiative is the development of a stratospheric airship capable of operating at an altitude of 35 km. This advanced system will utilise artificial intelligence to relay communication and detect signals emitted by enemy aircraft and missiles, providing precise information on enemy targets. Additionally, the MoD envisions a ‘multi-band space-based sensor’ to detect enemy radio waves and a solar-powered high-altitude pseudo satellite system designed to collect enemy communication data. This system is expected to have an endurance of at least two months while loitering at 60,000 ft.
The TPCR 2040 also highlights the acquisition of high-altitude long-endurance drones, with a projected requirement of 360 units to be equally divided among the Army, Navy, and the Indian Air Force (IAF). These drones will be capable of flying up to 1,500 km and operating at 60,000 ft, equipped with stealth features to evade enemy radars. They will carry specialised payloads, including communication interception devices, jamming systems, and the capability to direct artillery fire on enemy positions.
The Navy, in particular, is seeking drones that can take off and land vertically from ship decks, carry multiple payloads, operate up to 40,000 ft, and have an endurance of 25 hours. Additionally, the Navy requires drones with a range of 200 km and the capacity to fly at 20,000 ft.
The Army, meanwhile, has projected the need for 700-800 drones for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to enable precision targeting by ground weapons. The Army also requires UAVs that can loiter, carry a warhead, and, when commanded, carry out kamikaze strikes on designated targets.
The TPCR 2040 aims to engage the private industry, conveying the armed forces’ perspective on emerging futuristic combat technologies and their stated requirements for enhancing warfighting capabilities. The MoD emphasises that the roadmap will help private industry step up R&D, establish production lines, and build assemblies within the desired timeframe. Since 2018, the focus has been on indigenisation and strengthening public-private partnerships in defence technology.
This strategic push towards drones and space-based technologies underscores India’s commitment to modernising its military capabilities and staying ahead of evolving threats. The TPCR 2040 not only outlines a clear vision for the future but also serves as a call to action for the defence industry to innovate and collaborate in building a robust and technologically advanced military infrastructure.