India has stepped up efforts to equip its Israeli-made drones with deadly weapons and to develop Kalashnikovs locally.
According to Indian media reports, following tensions with China in Ladakh, India has once again begun work to equip Israeli drones purchased decades ago with deadly weapons, including surface-to-air and anti-tank missiles. In addition, recommendations are being made to install modern artillery on naval ships.
According to sources, the project to arm the drones will cost more than 35 billion Indian rupees. The contracts have been finalized and will be sent to a cabinet committee for security approval.
India currently has 90 such drones used for surveillance and targeting. India has now approved the purchase of 30 more US drones for surveillance at sea. In addition, over the past several years, approval has been given to expedite work on a Rs. 28 billion proposed project to manufacture Kalashnikovs locally.
