CRPF to get 25 high-end drones to tackle Maoists, terrorists

The tendering process for the procurement of the drones has started and they are expected to be introduced by the CRPF - the country's largest paramilitary force - in the next three-four months, a Deputy Inspector General-rank officer told IANS on the condition of anonymity.

The 25 new drones will join CRPF's existing fleet of 40 and help the force get real-time inputs and avoid attacks on its troopers.

"These drones will also comprise a ground control station with data link equipment, daylight camera payload, night camera payload, universal battery charger with power supply system," he added.

The move is part of CRPF Director General R.R. Bhatnagar's focus on better equipping the force and improving its infrastructure, the official said.

Training of 75 CRPF personnel to handle the drones and minor repairs at the 4 Signal Battalion of the force in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, are part of the conditions laid down in the document, another CRPF officer said.

According to the officer, although the Maoist threat has diminished with the security forces increasing their "area dominance", intelligence reports suggest they are trying to reorganise themselves - and high-end gadgets like the drone will help in fighting them.

The over 300,000-strong CRPF is mandated to provide internal security in Jammu and Kashmir and Maoist-affeted areas.