The Indian Army is taking a significant step forward in unmanned defense technology with the imminent induction of the nation’s first solar-powered spy drone. A contract worth approximately 168 crore rupees has been signed for this advanced surveillance system, which was developed by NewSpace Research & Technologies, a Bengaluru-based company, under the Ministry of Defence’s iDEX Innovation Program.
Advancing Unmanned Surveillance Capabilities
Named the Medium Altitude Persistent Surveillance System (MAPSS), this drone operates on solar power, a key feature that enables it to maintain flight for extended hours without interruption. This marks a notable improvement over previous army drones that relied on batteries or fuel, which restricted their operational duration. MAPSS is designed to address this limitation, offering prolonged endurance for critical missions.
The army plans to deploy this solar drone for various intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. Its capability to monitor specific regions continuously for extended periods will be crucial for maintaining vigilance along sensitive borders, including the high mountainous terrains in the north and the desert areas in the west. This ensures uninterrupted observation of activities across these vital regions.
Stealth and Indigenous Innovation
Operating on electric power, MAPSS produces minimal noise and generates less heat, making it considerably challenging for adversaries to detect and track. Beyond its primary surveillance role, the drone will also provide essential communication support in remote locations and assist in target identification during operational deployments. Its development is rooted in NewSpace’s prior high-altitude solar drone projects, with successful tests of similar platforms exceeding 24 hours of flight at over 26,000 feet, conducted at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga. The army’s MAPSS variant has been specifically adapted for medium altitude operations and has undergone trials in actual operational environments.
This procurement aligns with the army’s broader strategy to rapidly augment its drone capabilities. Following “Operation Sindoor,” the armed forces have acquired various unmanned systems, including loitering munitions and surveillance drones, valued at over 5,000 crore rupees. Further approvals are anticipated, alongside preparations for a substantial drone acquisition program in 2026. MAPSS is engineered to integrate seamlessly with existing long-range drones, focusing on closer-to-ground surveillance where continuous monitoring is paramount. Its sustained presence capability offers commanders a clearer operational picture without risking piloted aircraft.
The contract also underscores the growing influence of Indian startups in the defense sector. Government initiatives like iDEX foster opportunities for new companies to innovate and develop technologies tailored to the army’s requirements. This represents a significant achievement for NewSpace and provides the Indian Army with a modern, entirely indigenous technological asset. India’s adoption of solar-powered surveillance drones reflects a strategic emphasis on extended flight endurance, cost-effectiveness, and self-reliance in defense technology, thereby reinforcing border security in the context of modern warfare.
