New Delhi: The Indian Army loitering munitions programme is gaining momentum as the force looks to strengthen its battlefield capabilities with indigenous technology.
Under a new initiative, the Army is exploring loitering munitions that can be launched directly from existing 81mm smoke grenade launchers fitted on T-72, T-90, and Arjun tanks.
This move aims to give armoured units their own beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) strike and surveillance capability, reducing dependence on external drone units and enhancing real-time combat effectiveness.
Details of Loitering Munitions Procurement for Tanks
The Indian Army has issued a requirement under the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC 14) to develop indigenous loitering munitions compatible with tank-mounted launchers.
- Compatible with T-72, T-90 and Arjun tanks
- Launchable from existing 81mm smoke grenade dischargers
- Focus on indigenous development under iDEX initiative
- Designed for quick deployment without modifying tank structure
This reflects India’s push toward Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) in defence technology.
What is the Importance of Loitering Munitions Procurement for Tanks
Modern battlefields are changing rapidly. Tanks are no longer safe just because of heavy armour.
- Recent conflicts show tanks are vulnerable to hidden anti-tank teams and drones
- Traditional tanks rely on line-of-sight targeting, limiting their reach
- Loitering munitions allow surveillance and attack beyond obstacles
By integrating such systems, tanks can:
- Detect enemies behind hills or buildings
- Strike targets before they come into direct view
- Operate more independently on the battlefield
How the Technology Will Work
The idea is to convert a defensive smoke launcher into an offensive drone launcher.
Key Features:
- Munition must fit inside an 81mm launcher tube
- Must survive high-pressure launch forces
- Should deploy wings/rotors after launch
- Transition into stable flight within seconds
Once launched, the munition will:
- Fly over the battlefield
- Search for targets
- Strike when required (kamikaze-style)
This ensures crew safety, as everything happens from inside the tank.
Zero-Modification Advantage
One of the most important requirements is zero modification integration.
- No structural changes to tanks
- No changes in fire control systems
- Faster and cheaper deployment across fleet
This is critical because India operates thousands of tanks, including:
- Over 2,400 T-72 tanks
- Around 1,300 T-90 tanks
- Indigenous Arjun MBTs
Tactical Shift in Armoured Warfare
This move shows a major shift in military thinking.
Earlier focus:
- Heavy armour
- Direct firepower
Now focus:
- Information dominance
- Pre-emptive strikes
- Drone integration
Tanks will become “reconnaissance + strike platforms”, not just gun systems.
Challenges Ahead
Developing such a system is not easy.
Key challenges include:
- Designing compact drones within 81mm size
- Ensuring durability during launch
- Achieving stable autonomous flight
- Maintaining compatibility across tank variants
Despite these hurdles, success could place India among leaders in tank-integrated drone warfare systems.
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