New Delhi, November 11, 2026: The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is planning to introduce advanced armed drones capable of conducting surveillance and precision strikes during counter-terrorism and anti-insurgency operations.
The force has invited manufacturers to submit technical details of loitering munitions, commonly known as kamikaze drones, by November 25, 2026.
The proposed acquisition is intended to strengthen security operations in sensitive regions, including Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir.
CRPF Seeks Advanced Surveillance and Strike Drones
According to procurement documents reported by The Indian Express, the CRPF’s Directorate General has issued draft technical requirements for first-person-view (FPV) drones capable of monitoring designated areas and engaging identified targets.
Unlike conventional surveillance drones, loitering munitions carry an explosive payload and are designed for one-way missions.
These systems combine aerial reconnaissance with strike capabilities, potentially reducing the need to expose security personnel to dangerous locations.
Proposed Drones to Have 15-Km Range
The CRPF has outlined several technical requirements for the proposed unmanned aerial vehicles.
| Feature | Proposed Requirement |
|---|---|
| Drone type | FPV loitering munition |
| Operational range | At least 15 kilometres |
| Surveillance | Live aerial video transmission |
| Purpose | Surveillance and precision strikes |
| Vendor response deadline | November 25, 2026 |
| Procurement status | Draft requirements under review |
The proposed systems are intended to operate in challenging conditions while transmitting surveillance information to their operators.
The specifications remain subject to assessment and may change during the procurement process.
CoBRA Commandos in Manipur Could Benefit
The acquisition could strengthen the capabilities of the CRPF’s specialised Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA).
Originally established for anti-Maoist operations, CoBRA units have also been deployed in Manipur.
The state has faced prolonged security challenges and violence involving armed groups.
Advanced drones could provide additional surveillance capabilities in difficult terrain and help security personnel assess potential threats before conducting operations.
However, there has been no confirmed decision to deploy the proposed drones in any particular location.
Jammu and Kashmir Also Under Consideration
The technology could also be considered for counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, where the CRPF performs significant internal security duties.
Unmanned systems can assist security forces in monitoring difficult terrain and gathering information without immediately deploying personnel into hazardous areas.
Any future use of armed drones would require appropriate operational oversight and compliance with applicable legal and security procedures.
India Strengthens Internal Security Technology
The proposal reflects increasing interest in unmanned technology among India’s security forces.
Recent international conflicts have demonstrated the growing importance of drones in surveillance and military operations.
For internal security agencies, such technologies may provide additional tools for monitoring remote areas and supporting specialised operations.
The CRPF’s latest initiative is part of a wider effort to modernise equipment and improve operational capabilities.
Manufacturers Asked to Submit Details by November 25
The draft requirements were issued in early November and made available through the CRPF’s procurement system.
Manufacturers and authorised vendors have been invited to provide information about systems that meet the proposed specifications.
The force will evaluate the responses before taking further procurement decisions.
No final supplier, contract value, number of drones or delivery timeline has been confirmed.
CRPF Drone Procurement: Latest Update
As of November 11, 2026, the CRPF remains in the preliminary stage of evaluating advanced armed drone systems.
The proposed acquisition could strengthen surveillance and counter-insurgency capabilities, particularly for specialised units operating in challenging environments.
The next important development will be the submission and assessment of technical information from manufacturers by November 25.
Sources: The Indian Express, November 11, 2026; Hindustan Times and The New Indian Express, November 10–11, 2026; CRPF Procurement Portal
Supreme News Network
