Adani’s Drishti 10 Starliner Drone Crash: Porbandar, Gujarat – A significant setback occurred in India’s burgeoning drone program on January 14th, 2025, with the crash of a Drishti 10 Starliner drone manufactured by Adani Defence & Aerospace under licence from Israel’s Elbit Systems. The incident took place off the coast of Porbandar during pre-acceptance trials conducted by the Indian Navy.
The Drishti 10 Starliner, a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), is an indigenously produced variant of the Elbit Systems‘ Hermes 900 Starliner, assembled by India’s Adani Group under a technology transfer agreement with the Israeli defense giant. This particular drone was the second of two delivered to the Indian Navy on December 4th, 2024, and was undergoing final checks before official induction.
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, initial reports suggest a potential loss of communication may have played a role. The drone, valued at approximately Rs140 crore (US$16 million), was reportedly ditched into the water during an emergency landing.
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IN received the 2nd Drishti-10 Starliner UAV on December 4, 2024. (File Photo).
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Impact and Implications:
This incident raises concerns regarding the reliability and operational readiness of this crucial defense asset. The Drishti 10 Starliner is a cornerstone of India’s efforts to enhance its maritime and border security capabilities, providing vital intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
Financial Loss: Although the crashed drone had not yet been officially inducted into the Indian Navy‘s inventory, the loss represents a significant financial setback for the program.
Program Delays: The incident may potentially delay the full integration of these drones into the Navy’s operational fleet, impacting mission planning and preparedness.
Confidence Concerns: While this single incident should not be overstated, it may raise concerns about the overall maturity of the indigenous drone manufacturing program.
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Investigation and Way Forward:
A thorough investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway. Both the Indian Navy and Adani Defence & Aerospace are cooperating to determine the factors that led to the incident.
Technical Review: A comprehensive review of the drone’s systems, including communication links, flight control software, and sensor systems, will be conducted.
Safety Protocols: The incident will likely prompt a review and potential strengthening of safety protocols and procedures for the operation and maintenance of these drones.
Program Adjustments: Depending on the findings of the investigation, adjustments may be made to the production and operational timelines for the Drishti 10 Starliner program.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with developing and fielding advanced military technologies. While setbacks are inevitable, a thorough and transparent investigation, coupled with a commitment to continuous improvement, will be crucial for ensuring the success of India’s drone program.
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