ROME — India has been granted observer status on the four-nation Eurodrone program which is edging towards completion.
India joins Japan as observer on the project launched by Italy, France, Germany and Spain and run by Europe-based contracting agency OCCAR to build a MALE drone that will give Europe greater autonomy in the drone sector.
Developed by Airbus, France’s Dassault Aviation and Italy’s Leonardo, the Eurodrone, with a wing span of 26 meters, will specialize in long-endurance Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions.
During an October visit to Leonardo facilities in Italy, Eurodrone program officials inspected the mission computer and Gabbiano electronically scanned radar due to be installed on the platform.
Prime contractor Airbus has stated the Eurodrone will be able to fly in non-segregated airspace, carry weapons, offer naval anti-submarine warfare as well as electronic-warfare capabilities, featuring a 2.3 ton payload, 40 hours of autonomy and 45,000 feet maximum altitude.
Twin turboprops are positioned behind the wing in a pusher configuration.
The development follows years in which EU states dragged their heels on joint drone development. Launched in 2015, the Eurodrone program originally aimed for a first delivery in 2025, although entry into service is now planned for 2029.
Tom Kington is the Italy correspondent for Defense News.
