CRPF to Acquire Advanced Loitering Munitions for Enhanced Operations

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is poised to significantly enhance its operational capabilities with the acquisition of loitering munitions, also known as kamikaze drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are designed to integrate drone surveillance features with guided missile strike capabilities. According to a document reviewed by DotMR, the CRPF has requested information from potential vendors by November 25, 2026, regarding their ability to supply these advanced munitions.

The CRPF's document outlines specific requirements for the loitering munitions, emphasizing their critical role in modern warfare. The UAVs must be capable of carrying two high-explosive warheads, each weighing at least 1.5 kg. Additionally, the drones are required to have a minimum operational range of 15 kilometers and an endurance of at least 30 minutes while carrying the payload. The primary mission of these kamikaze drones will be to conduct one-way missions against designated targets, utilizing a remotely operated aerial vehicle with a lethal impact radius of 10 meters.

This strategic acquisition comes at a time when the CRPF is actively engaged in operations in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir and Manipur, where insurgency and ethnic violence have posed significant challenges. The introduction of loitering munitions is expected to enhance the force's ability to respond to threats effectively and with precision.

The CRPF has been deployed in various conflict zones across India, notably in Jammu and Kashmir, where the insurgency has seen a decline, and in Manipur, which has been grappling with escalating ethnic violence. The recent deployment of two battalions from the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) to Manipur marks a significant shift in operational strategy. These elite units, known for their expertise in guerrilla tactics and intelligence gathering, have been instrumental in anti-Maoist operations since their inception in 2008.

In light of the recent violence in Manipur, which has resulted in approximately 370 fatalities and the displacement of over 66,000 individuals since 2023, the urgency for advanced operational capabilities has never been greater. The CRPF's decision to procure loitering munitions reflects a proactive approach to countering the evolving tactics employed by militant groups in the region, including the use of drones and improvised rocket launchers.

The CoBRA battalions have been actively involved in major anti-insurgency operations in Manipur over the past six months, yielding positive results. According to sources familiar with the operations, CoBRA teams have been pivotal in significant arms seizures and the apprehension of insurgents linked to recent violent incidents. For instance, during a recent operation targeting a militant camp, CoBRA was the chosen force, demonstrating their effectiveness in high-stakes environments.

The demand for additional CoBRA battalions in Manipur underscores the ongoing need for specialized forces in the region. Reports indicate that one additional battalion, comprising around 1,000 personnel, is expected to be deployed soon to bolster the existing forces. This strategic reinforcement aims to enhance the CRPF's capacity to maintain order and address the challenges posed by insurgent activities.

As the CRPF prepares to integrate loitering munitions into its operational framework, the implications for future missions are significant. The ability to conduct precision strikes from a distance will provide the force with a tactical advantage, particularly in challenging terrains where traditional ground operations may be hindered. The introduction of these advanced UAVs aligns with the broader modernization efforts within the CRPF, aimed at adapting to contemporary security challenges.

According to ministerial filings,, the deployment of CoBRA battalions in conflict zones like Manipur and Jammu and Kashmir signals a commitment to addressing insurgency through specialized tactics and technology. The CRPF's proactive stance in acquiring loitering munitions is an official marker of its adaptability and readiness to confront evolving threats in India's diverse security landscape.

Looking ahead,, the CRPF's initiative to acquire loitering munitions marks a critical juncture in enhancing its operational capabilities. As the force continues to adapt to the complexities of modern warfare, the integration of advanced technologies will play a crucial role in ensuring national security and stability in conflict-affected regions.