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India’s First Dedicated Drone Base in Meerut: A Strategic Move for Military Modernization

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India’s First Dedicated Drone Base in Meerut: A Strategic Move for Military Modernization

India’s first exclusive runway and aviation base for drones and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) will be established in Meerut, aimed at enhancing military infrastructure modernization, according to official documents. The project, with a budget of Rs 406 crore, is being led by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), functioning under the Ministry of Defence.

The initiative is a direct result of insights gained from Operation Sindoor in 2025, which highlighted the increasing importance of unmanned systems in warfare. The BRO’s office, Project Shivalik, recently issued an e-tender for the facility’s construction.

Set across 900 acres on Quila Road, the base is designed to be a crucial operational centre for the Indian Army, focusing on High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) RPAs. These advanced drones are intended to provide real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) over critical border regions.

The core of the base will include a runway measuring 2,110 metres in length and 45 metres in width, specifically built to support RPAs as well as transport aircraft like the C-295 and C-130. The runway will be equipped with ICAO CAT-II compliant lighting and navigational aids to ensure operation in low-visibility conditions, allowing for all-weather capability.

Additional infrastructure will feature two large hangars, each 60 by 50 metres in size, dedicated to maintenance and rapid deployment. The base is expected to facilitate around 1,500 RPA operations annually, equivalent to four drone sorties per day.

This project draws inspiration from the successful use of unmanned aerial systems during Operation Sindoor, which was initiated following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of 26 civilians. Drones were employed for precision surveillance and targeting during the operation.

On February 12, the BRO called for bids for project management consultancy services. The overall timeline for the project is set at 85 months, which includes seven months for pre-award planning, 18 months for construction, a 24-month defect liability period, and 36 months of maintenance supervision.

Upon completion, the Meerut base will serve as a vital command centre for unmanned aerial operations. A senior officer from the Indian Army, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that this development is a reflection of India’s growing commitment to indigenization and technological independence. As global military strategies evolve, the Meerut base will place India in a position to maintain vigilant aerial surveillance, ensuring both deterrence and preparedness along its borders.

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CEO, Mavdrones

Pradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.

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About Pradipta V Mukherjee

CEO, MavdronesPradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.

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