Further details have emerged of the capabilities to be sought through an Indian competition for mini unmanned air systems.
The Indian defence ministry has announced that a total of 95 mini UAS will be purchased in the near future. The equipment will improve the aerial surveillance capabilities of the Indian air force and navy, which should receive 60 and 35 systems, respectively.
According to a request for proposals issued by New Delhi, candidate air vehicles should weigh no more than 2.5kg (5.5lb), and an entire system - comprising two UAS and a ground control station - should total less than 15kg.
Sources suggest that over the coming years, the Indian defence ministry plans to procure more than 500 additional systems.
The bidding process for the initial requirement is expected to begin in early 2013, with Israeli manufacturers Aeronautics, Innocon and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) all likely to make offers in combination with Indian partners. Sources believe competition will come from other companies, including the USA's AeroVironment.
Source: Flight International
