New Delhi: The Indian government has scrapped contracts for 400 logistics drones for the army. The decision comes after reports of hacking incidents involving drones using Chinese parts at the border.
The cancelled deal was worth ₹230 crore. It included 200 medium-altitude, 100 heavy-weight, and 100 light-weight drones. These drones were meant for deployment at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The move is part of a crackdown on domestic companies using Chinese parts in military drones. A defence source stated that a stricter mechanism is being put in place to ensure drones do not contain Chinese parts or electronic codes.
Drone Hacking at the Border
Reports suggest that drones used by the Indian Army under the Make in India initiative were hacked at the LAC and the Line of Control (LoC).
In one incident, a hacked drone refused to take off. In another case, drones veered off course and entered Pakistani territory after being remotely controlled by unknown actors across the border.
China’s Drone Market Dominance
China dominates the global drone market. Chinese company DJI alone holds 70% of the market. Research suggests that Chinese firms supply up to 90% of commercial drones worldwide.
Security experts warn that drones with Chinese components pose a major cybersecurity risk. They could compromise military operations and data security.
India’s decision to cancel these contracts highlights growing concerns about cybersecurity in military technology. The defence establishment is now focusing on securing supply chains and ensuring that future military drones are free from foreign security threats.
