New Delhi - In a significant enhancement of capabilities, the Indian Air Force has introduced its latest Heron Mark 2 drones, which possess strike capabilities and are capable of conducting border surveillance against both China and Pakistan in a single mission.

Four newly deployed Heron Mark-2 drones, equipped with long-range missiles and other weaponry, have been stationed at a forward air base in the northern sector. These drones, featuring satellite communication capabilities, fulfill a long-standing requirement for the Indian Air Force. With an endurance of approximately 36 hours, the drones can operate at considerable distances and even illuminate enemy targets using lasers, aiding fighter aircraft in destroying them with long-range weaponry.

Wing Commander Pankaj Rana, the commanding officer of the drone squadron, highlighted the drone's prowess. He emphasized its extended endurance and "beyond line of sight" capability, allowing surveillance of the entire country from a single location. Rana stated that the drones seamlessly integrate into the Indian Air Force's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance matrix, offering continuous 24x7 target monitoring.

The drones excel in their capacity to operate in diverse weather conditions and terrains, addressing targets effectively and completing missions.
 Notably, the Heron Mark 2 drone can cover both adversaries in a single sortie from its current base, demonstrating its significant operational capabilities.

While the drones are currently unarmed, plans to weaponize them are underway. They can potentially be equipped with various weaponry, including air-to-ground missiles, air-to-ground anti-tank weapons, and bombs. 

Squadron Leader Arpit Tandon, a Heron Mark 2 drone pilot, lauded the drone's advancements over its predecessors, functioning efficiently in sub-zero temperatures and diverse weather scenarios, expanding the Indian Air Force's operational scope.

Additionally, the Indian Air Force is working on Project Cheetah, aiming to upgrade approximately 70 Heron drones with satellite communication links and armament, catering to the armed forces' needs.

Furthermore, the Indian armed forces are set to acquire 31 Predator drones, designed for high altitude and extended endurance missions. These drones are currently aiding the Navy in covering extensive regions of the Indian Ocean.

These new acquisitions signal India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities across various terrains and addressing evolving security challenges.