In a significant development poised to bolster India’s aerial surveillance and strike capabilities, Indian industrial giant Bharat Forge has partnered with French aerospace firm Turgis & Gaillard. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to propose the AAROK Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to the Indian Ministry of Defence, aiming to meet the nation’s critical Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV requirements.
The AAROK UAV is designed as a versatile MALE-class platform, primarily intended for extensive long-range surveillance missions. It comes equipped with advanced electromagnetic sensors and sophisticated radar systems, allowing it to effectively monitor enemy activities from a safe, stand-off distance. This capability is crucial for gathering intelligence and maintaining persistent awareness over vast operational areas. Furthermore, the AAROK can seamlessly integrate with existing command and control systems, ensuring the real-time transmission of vital tactical information to decision-makers on the ground.
Beyond its formidable reconnaissance capabilities, the AAROK is also a potent strike platform. It boasts the capacity to carry over 1.5 tonnes of diverse weaponry, enabling it to support multi-domain operations. This offensive punch means the UAV can conduct precision strikes behind enemy lines, disrupt enemy defenses, and contribute significantly to battlefield shaping. Such a multi-role capability makes the AAROK a highly attractive proposition for modern armed forces looking for versatile aerial assets.
A key aspect of this collaboration aligns perfectly with India’s “Make in India” defense initiative. As part of the partnership, Bharat Forge is committed to establishing a dedicated production line for the AAROK UAV within India. This localized manufacturing will ensure not only the domestic supply of these advanced drones but also facilitate in-country maintenance and support, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains and boosting India’s indigenous defense manufacturing ecosystem.
The joint proposal for the AAROK represents a strategic move to offer a cutting-edge, combat-proven solution tailor-made for India’s evolving defense needs. If selected, it could significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of the Indian armed forces by providing a robust, long-endurance platform capable of both intelligence gathering and precision strike missions.