DRDO's advanced drone project TAPAS closed, did not meet the requirements of the army!

Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) started the 'Tapas' project in 2011. The Tapas-201 drone developed by DRDO had flown about 200 flights, but it did not live up to the expectations of the army. Tapas failed at the height at which he had to fly and his flying ability was also very low.

India has closed its biggest project to develop an advanced UAV for strategic reconnaissance and surveillance. This is because this operation has failed to meet the military needs. This is a major blow to indigenous capabilities in this important area of ​​modern warfare. DRDO first started the 'Tapas' project in the year 2011. This was to develop a medium-altitude, long-range drone. This project was approved at an initial cost of Rs 1,650 crore. Now this project has been officially closed. Government sources confirmed this.

The Army has also recently inducted four SATCOM-enabled Heron Mark-II UAVs. The initial deadline for DRDO's TAPAS project was August 2016. But there were many problems with the 'gross weight' of the UAV increasing to 2850 kg as well as issues with the imported engine and payload. Due to this, the cost increased due to extension of time limit several times. Later it was revised to Rs 1786 crore.

At least two accidents also occurred

Tapas-201 drone flew about 200 flights. At least two accidents also occurred. The project could not meet the qualitative requirements of the initial services. Even the Tapas failed to meet the required PSQR in terms of the altitude at which it was supposed to fly and its operational endurance.

Flying capability of drone is also less

The flying capacity of this drone at an altitude of 28000 feet is only 18 hours. Whereas in this category the drone should be able to operate at an altitude of up to 30000 feet for at least 24 hours. A source said, DRDO will now consider redesigning and redeveloping such UAVs.

Four SATCOM-enabled Heron Mark-II UAVs have been inducted.

The Army has also recently inducted four SATCOM-enabled Heron Mark-II UAVs to enhance surveillance along the Line of Actual Control with China. Efforts are also underway to quickly finalize a mega $3-billion contract for 31 armed MQ-9B Reaper or Predator-B HEL (high-altitude, long-endurance) drones. Of these, 15 drones are included for the Navy and eight each for the Army and Air Force.