Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), Adani Defence, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Ashok Leyland have emerged as leading contenders for an Indian Coast Guard requirement covering 10 Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) remotely piloted aircraft systems. Solar Industries was among the interested vendors that attended the procurement programme’s pre-bid meeting, indicating broad industry participation. The Coast Guard intends to acquire the systems to strengthen long-range maritime surveillance, reconnaissance and search-and-rescue capabilities across India’s extensive maritime domain. The aircraft are expected to support persistent beyond-line-of-sight monitoring, maritime security missions and situational awareness across the Exclusive Economic Zone and remote search-and-rescue areas. The procurement forms part of a wider initiative to expand unmanned operations alongside existing maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters. Participation by established Indian defence and aerospace companies reflects the growing maturity of the country’s domestic unmanned aviation sector. The programme is expected to attract close industry attention as a potentially significant Coast Guard unmanned aviation acquisition that supports the government’s domestic defence manufacturing objectives.
