CRPF Moves to Acquire Kamikaze Drones to Strengthen Counter-Insurgency Capabilities

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is reportedly advancing plans to acquire first-person-view (FPV) kamikaze drones equipped with surveillance and precision-strike capabilities, reflecting an expanding emphasis on unmanned aerial systems in India’s internal security operations.

According to reports published on 10 and 11 November 2026, the CRPF has circulated preliminary technical requirements to manufacturers and suppliers for loitering munitions capable of undertaking surveillance and one-way strike missions against designated targets. The proposed acquisition is intended to strengthen the operational capabilities of security personnel engaged in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.

Proposed Technical Requirements

The proposed drones are expected to have an operational range of at least 15 kilometres and the ability to transmit real-time imagery during flight. The reported specifications call for systems capable of carrying explosive payloads and conducting precision engagements against identified objectives.

The procurement requirements reportedly specify a flight endurance of approximately 30 minutes, a maximum system weight of seven kilograms and a minimum flight speed of 150 kilometres per hour under specified operating conditions. The proposed systems would combine aerial reconnaissance with an explosive strike capability, allowing operators to monitor designated areas before undertaking an authorised engagement.

The CRPF has reportedly requested interested manufacturers and suppliers to submit technical information by 25 November 2026. The submissions would help the force assess available technologies against its operational requirements before proceeding with subsequent procurement decisions.

Strengthening Specialised Counter-Insurgency Operations

The proposed acquisition could provide additional capabilities to specialised CRPF formations, including the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA), which conducts operations in challenging security environments.

CoBRA units have traditionally specialised in jungle warfare, intelligence-led operations and counter-insurgency missions. The introduction of loitering munitions could expand their technological capabilities by providing remote surveillance and engagement options in difficult terrain.

Reports have identified Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir as potential operational environments where such systems could be relevant. However, no final deployment locations have been officially confirmed.

Expanding India’s Unmanned Security Capabilities

The CRPF’s reported initiative reflects the growing importance of unmanned platforms in modern security operations. Unlike conventional reconnaissance drones, loitering munitions combine surveillance capabilities with an onboard explosive payload, allowing a single platform to perform observation and strike functions.

The development could also create opportunities for India’s emerging unmanned systems industry, particularly domestic manufacturers developing FPV drones, secure communication systems and loitering munitions. However, no manufacturer has been officially selected for the proposed CRPF acquisition.

The procurement process remains at a preliminary stage, with the final selection, number of systems, contract value and induction timeline yet to be established.

---