New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has formally initiated the search for a new class of ship-launched loitering munitions, commonly referred to as “kamikaze” or suicide drones, issuing a Request for Information to defense manufacturers. The initial procurement stage signals the Indian Navy’s strategic intention to equip its surface fleet with sea-based precision strike capabilities capable of blurring the line between reconnaissance platforms and guided missiles. The term kamikaze derives from historical World War II terminology, adapted to describe modern autonomous platforms that circle target zones before diving directly into enemy assets to detonate built-in warheads.
According to technical specifications outlined in the Request for Information, the Navy is seeking medium-range systems capable of demonstrating an operational range of at least 1,000 kilometres. Industry candidates must feature an airborne loitering endurance of nine hours or more, cruising speeds exceeding 75 knots, and terminal attack dive speeds greater than 200 knots. Additional performance parameters stipulate an operating ceiling of 15,000 feet, low radar cross-section characteristics for enhanced stealth, and multi-role versatility to strike both maritime surface vessels and land targets.
To ensure effective operational reconnaissance and target engagement during day and night conditions, each munition must carry an integrated electro-optical and infrared seeker package. This system combines forward-looking infrared imaging with day cameras to assist in navigation, surveillance, and target identification prior to executing terminal strikes with forward-mounted warheads. Furthermore, to counter electronic countermeasures and signal jamming, the drones must be equipped with autonomous navigation along pre-set coordinates, automatic return features if data links drop, and pre-designated safe termination divert protocols to prevent unintended strikes.
A crucial operational requirement outlined by the Navy is the capability to transfer control of a munition while in flight between different ships or shore stations. This hand-off mechanism enables one vessel to launch a platform that can subsequently be guided to its destination using sensors and mission control consoles operated aboard another naval vessel or coastal command unit. The acquisition program aligns with a broader global trend among modern naval forces seeking cost-effective, long-range alternatives to traditional cruise missiles and manned strike aircraft.
The procurement is proceeding under the guidelines of India’s Defence Acquisition Procedure, prioritizing domestic manufacturing categories including Buy (Indian-IDDM), Buy (Indian), and Buy and Make (Indian). The emphasis on indigenous development reflects the government’s ongoing Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aimed at strengthening self-reliance within the national defense sector.
