The Indian Navy has officially introduced its first indigenously developed Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle, the Drishti 10, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s defense modernization efforts. The UAV was unveiled during a ceremony at the Adani Aerospace Park in Hyderabad. Designed as an advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform, the Drishti 10 is distinguished by its NATO STANAG 4671 certification, enabling it to operate in both segregated and non-segregated airspace.

Among its standout features, the Drishti 10 offers 36 hours of endurance and the ability to carry payloads of up to 450 kilograms. Built for all-weather operations, the UAV will be transferred from Hyderabad to Porbandar, where it will be integrated into the Navy’s operational framework.

The project is seen as a direct outcome of India’s “Make in India” initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote local entrepreneurship and reduce reliance on foreign defense suppliers. The induction of the Drishti 10 strengthens India’s commitment to technological self-reliance while enhancing its maritime surveillance and defense capabilities.

In addition to this indigenous milestone, India continues to expand its UAV fleet through foreign acquisitions. The country has already procured six Hermes 9000 UAVs from Israel and signed a $3 billion deal with the U.S. to manufacture 15 MQ-9B SeaGuardian and 16 MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones. This dual strategy of domestic development and international procurement highlights India’s broader approach to strengthening its border security and surveillance capabilities.