Rapprochement with Europe: India joins Eurodrone programme as an observer
India has officially been granted observer status in the Eurodrone programme, which is a European initiative in the field of medium-altitude remotely piloted aircraft systems (MALE RPAS).
Here's What We Know
On 27 August 2024, the Government of India submitted a request for observer status, which was approved by the Organisation for the Co-operation in Defence and Security of the Realm of the Americas (OCCAR). The letter of approval was handed over to Ambassador Ajit Gupta by OCCAR-EA Director Joachim Sacker during a ceremony at the Indian Embassy in Berlin.
The Eurodrone, developed by Airbus Defence Space GmbH in cooperation with Leonardo Spa, Dassault Aviation and Airbus Defence Space SAU, is an advanced unmanned system that performs intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. The project aims to reduce Europe's dependence on non-EU technologies.
Eurodrone. Illustration: Wikipedia
The programme was launched in 2016 and has already achieved important results. In 2018, the definition phase was completed, and in 2022, a contract was signed for the production of 20 systems (60 aircraft and 40 ground stations). The first prototype is expected to be delivered in 2024, with serial deliveries expected at the end of the decade.
India's accession to Eurodrone as an observer underscores the programme's growing importance for global defence cooperation and confirms the strategic role of OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation) on the world stage.
Source: OCCAR
