India Becomes Observer in Eurodrone Program

On January 21, 2025, India officially became an Observer State in the Eurodrone program, which is managed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and led by Airbus Defence and Space. This move highlights India’s dedication to strengthening its defence ties with European nations.

Background and Context

The Eurodrone program is a collaborative effort between Germany, France, Italy, and Spain to develop a Medium Altitude Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS). The Eurodrone will be used for long-duration missions such as Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and airborne early warning. The system is expected to enter service by 2030.

India’s Observer Status

India formally requested Observer Status on August 27, 2024, and received approval in January 2025. The Letter of Approval was handed over by OCCAR-EA Director Joachim Sucker to India’s Ambassador to Germany, Ajit Gupte, at the Indian Embassy in Berlin. This decision reflects India’s desire to explore opportunities for collaboration with Europe in the field of defence technology.

Implications for Defence Cooperation

By becoming an Observer in the Eurodrone program, India gains access to valuable insights into advanced unmanned aerial systems and their applications. This could potentially lead to future collaborations, technology transfers, and joint ventures, thereby boosting India’s defence capabilities and enhancing its relationships with European defence industries.

Eurodrone Programme Overview

• Programme Name: Eurodrone
• Lead Organization: Airbus Defence and Space
• Participating Countries: Germany, France, Italy, Spain
• Objective: Development of a Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS) for surveillance and reconnaissance
• Primary Missions: ISTAR, maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, airborne early warning
• Expected Operational Date: 2030
• India’s Role: Joined as an Observer State in January 2025