New Delhi: Aiming to further bolster its combat capabilities, the Indian Army has initiated the process of procuring new-age technologies, including tethered drones, jetpack suits, robotic mules, and jammers.
On January 24, the force issued a request for proposals to procure 130 tethered drone systems, 48 jetpack suits, 100 robotic mules, and 20 drone jammers.
According to the RFPs, all devices will be acquired under emergency procurement through a fast-track procedure under the “Buy Indian” policy.
The Army said the induction of new-age drone systems will help in enhancing the overall surveillance along the LAC with China, LoC and international boundaries with Pakistan. The jetpacks will allow troops to fly at a speed of over 50 kilometres per hour and four-legged robotic mules will help them in logistical requirements in remote border areas.
The tethered drone system consists of drones connected to a ground-based station and can provide surveillance of beyond-the-line-of-sight targets for prolonged durations.
In its request for proposal (RFP) to procure jetpacks, the Army said that the suits with a modern propulsion system should provide controls for safe ascent and descent, take-off and landing in all directions.
The jetpack suit propels the wearer through the air by using gas or liquid propellants. The last date of submission of the bid is February 14.
A notification has also been put out by the government to purchase 20 drone jammers to tackle drone intrusion from across the border.
