Indian Army selects Tata Advanced Systems and Nibe as lowest bidders for ₹1.6 billion loitering‑munitions contract

The Indian Army has awarded a fast‑track procurement contract worth roughly ₹1.6 billion (about $165 million) for 840 loitering munitions to Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Nibe Limited. Under the split‑sourcing arrangement, TASL will supply about 64 % of the systems (≈₹1 billion) while Nibe will deliver the remaining 36 % (≈₹600 million). The loitering munitions, with ranges exceeding 100 km, combine UAV and missile features and are described as “suicide drones.” The order is part of a broader Army modernisation drive that includes the formation of dedicated drone units such as Shaktibaan regiments, Divyastra batteries and Bhairav battalions. The procurement, conducted through the Fast Track Procurement (FTP) mechanism, aims to accelerate delivery within six months of contract signing. It underscores India’s emphasis on indigenous defence production and the expansion of its autonomous‑system inventory, which the Army plans to grow to around 100,000 drones of varying capabilities over the coming years.