Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to induct Harop UCAV by 2011

The IAF will induct lethal killer drones within two years, providing itself the capability to hit high value targets such as enemy missile and radar sites, and even terrorist hideouts.

A senior IAF officer said here today that Israeli-made 'Harop' unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) would join the IAF by 2011 and it will enhance the war-fighting capabilities of the IAF, both conventional and low intensity conflict.

Harop will be IAF's first unmanned aerial vehicle for offensive strikes, though it already possesses a fleet of 'Searcher' and 'Heron' UAVs to perform surveillance and reconnaissance roles.

The Harop will provide IAF the capability to take down enemy positions without having to send its manned fighter aircraft to hit ground targets.

Developed by Malat, the UAV division of the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Harop UCAVs were bought by India recently through a reported USD 100 million deal for upto 10 drones.

Harop, which is usually launched from ground- or sea-based canisters, can be adapted for air-launch too.