CRPF plans to acquire kamikaze drones for counter-terror operations in Manipur, J&K

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is planning to acquire kamikaze drones, also known as loitering munitions, to strengthen its surveillance and precision-strike capabilities during counter-terrorism and anti-insurgency operations, particularly in Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir.

The paramilitary force has invited manufacturers to submit technical details of unmanned aerial systems meeting its operational requirements by November 25, 2026.

The proposed acquisition would equip CRPF personnel with drones capable of monitoring hostile positions and carrying explosive payloads to strike designated targets.

Unlike conventional surveillance drones, loitering munitions can remain airborne while searching for or tracking a target before being directed towards it. They are designed for one-way missions in which the drone is destroyed upon impact.

𝗖𝗥𝗣𝗙 𝘀𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

According to the specifications outlined by the CRPF, the proposed systems must be capable of carrying two high-explosive warheads weighing at least 1.5 kg each.

The drones should have a minimum operational range of 15 kilometres and remain airborne for at least 30 minutes while carrying their payload.

The force has also specified a killing or impact radius of 10 metres for the systems.

These capabilities would allow security personnel to conduct aerial surveillance and engage designated targets from a distance, potentially reducing the need for troops to approach hostile positions directly.

The request for technical information marks an initial stage in the procurement process. The final selection will depend on the evaluation of systems offered by manufacturers and their suitability for the force's operational requirements.

𝗖𝗼𝗕𝗥𝗔 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗽𝘂𝗿

The proposed acquisition is expected to be particularly relevant to the CRPF's Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), whose personnel are deployed in Manipur.

Two CoBRA battalions are currently stationed in the state, while the deployment of a third battalion is under consideration.

CoBRA personnel are specially trained in guerrilla warfare, intelligence gathering and jungle operations. The units were originally deployed primarily for anti-Maoist operations but have since been assigned responsibilities in Manipur.

The state's difficult terrain and continuing security challenges have increased the importance of surveillance and specialised operational capabilities.

Armed groups have reportedly used drones and locally manufactured rocket launchers during confrontations with security forces, presenting additional challenges for personnel operating in remote and forested areas.

Loitering munitions could provide CoBRA units with an additional operational option for identifying and engaging hostile positions, subject to their eventual induction and deployment.

𝗣𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗝𝗮𝗺𝗺𝘂 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗺𝗶𝗿

The CRPF is also examining the potential utility of these systems in counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

The ability to combine aerial reconnaissance with precision strikes could support specialised operations against armed groups, particularly in difficult terrain where conventional approaches may expose security personnel to greater risks.

However, the deployment of such systems would depend on operational requirements and the completion of the procurement and induction process.

The proposed acquisition reflects the growing emphasis on incorporating unmanned aerial technology into the operational capabilities of India's security forces.

While the CRPF has initiated the process of identifying suitable systems, no final procurement decision or deployment schedule has been announced.