INDIA’S UAV MARKET

threat from the air. Countermeasure systems based only on interference with radio signals as well as GPS jamming/ spoofing do not provide reliable protection. By contrast, the high-power electromagnetics (HPEM) counter-UAS developed by Diehl Defence acts directly on the control electronics of mini-drones by means of electromagnetic pulses, thus causing mission abort. Regardless of the control method used, autonomous or radio-controlled, the mini-drone becomes inoperable upon impact of HPEM pulses at distances of up to several hundred metres and triggers the fail-safe function. HPEM systems which do not cause harm to individuals are already being used for stopping cars and protecting large events (Olympic Games and summit meetings). France and Qatar completed the deal for 24 Dassault Rafale fighter jets at the opening day (March 29) of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference. The fighter deal, which includes MBDA missiles, training for 36 pilots and some 100 mechanics, was earlier reported to be worth $6.9 billion. However, it was announced later on that the deal is worth $7.5 billion. The deal has been made for the same number of jets purchased by Egypt in 2014, but the Qatari deal is priced higher due to the provision of long-range cruise missiles as well as Meteor missiles. In December 2015, Qatar made a down payment, putting the contract in effect. The Indian defence forces have outlined blueprints to procure more than 5,000 UAVs over the next ten years. The $3-billion plan will be restricted to domestic companies that can ‘tie up with’ foreign manufacturers, since domestic efforts to meet UAV needs have been stifled over the years by lack of technical experience, delays and cost overruns. A wide spectrum of UAVs will be purchased with the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy expected to buy tactical UAVs, high-altitude long-endurance UAVs, vertical take-off and landing UAVs, and medium-altitude, long-endurance UAVs.