India Joins Eurodrone Programme

Context: India has officially joined the MALE RPAS (Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System) programme, also known as Eurodrone programme, as an Observer State.

About Eurodrone

It is a joint European initiative to meet future Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS) requirements.
It is part of Europe’s collective defence strategy, reducing reliance on US and Israeli platforms such as the Reaper and Heron drones.
Participating Nations:
- Core members: Germany, France, Italy, and Spain.
- Lead Nation: Germany.
- Observer States: Japan (joined in November 2023) and India (joined in January 2025).
India will be represented by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of DRDO.

Features

It is equipped with a twin-engine configuration.
It is designed for operations in diverse environments, including severe weather conditions.
The drones are expected to enter service by 2030

Mission Capabilities

Designed to support ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) missions globally.
Suitable for operations in both civil and military airspace.