Sun Oct 27 14:21:53 UTC 2024: ## Indian Military Suspends Drone Order After Intelligence Reports Reveal Use of Chinese Components

**New Delhi:** A potential security breach has sparked alarm within the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD), following reports of Chinese components being used in military drones procured from domestic manufacturers.

The revelation comes as India and China attempt to resolve their four-year-long border standoff in Ladakh. The MoD is now implementing stringent guidelines to ensure domestic manufacturers don’t integrate Chinese parts or electronics into military drones.

Intelligence agencies identified several homegrown drone manufacturers, including Dhaksha Unmanned Systems Private Limited, using Chinese components in their drones. This led to the suspension of a 200-drone order from Dhaksha.

Dhaksha refuted the allegations, claiming that no drones had been delivered under the contract and that all components used comply with statutory requirements. They asserted that they have sourced alternatives from the US and Taiwan.

However, the MoD sent a “secret” letter to trade organizations like FICCI and ASSOCHAM, raising concerns about the use of Chinese components and urging caution while dealing with the implicated manufacturers.

This move has raised eyebrows as it involves sharing classified information with civilian bodies, potentially compromising its security.

The incident highlights the growing threat of Chinese technology infiltrating Indian defence establishments, following previous concerns regarding Chinese-origin CCTV cameras installed in sensitive locations.

While India seeks to become a global drone manufacturing hub through initiatives like the PLI scheme, the use of Chinese components in military drones undermines these efforts and raises questions about the integrity of India’s defence supply chain.

The MoD’s handling of this sensitive issue will face scrutiny, with concerns about due process and fairness coming to the forefront.

Read More