The army has ordered nearly 2,000 drones, some of which will be used to transport vital supplies to forward posts and others for surveillance and reconnaissance. 

Because of high-altitude clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in Ladakh and, more recently, Arunachal Pradesh, these bulk orders are urgently required.

In Ladakh, China’s People’s Liberation Army has moved more troops forward and constructed heated structures and helipads in Aksai Chin, as well as key conflict points like Demchok and Galwan.

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This has necessitated keeping a close eye on their movements. The helipads allow them to quickly move troops to forward positions.

Approximately 400 drones are being purchased for logistical support and approximately 1,500 for various types of surveillance.

The logistics drones can carry loads weighing between 5kg and 40kg and will primarily be used to transport various types of supplies to troops in forward positions. The drones’ travel distances could range between 5km and 20km.