Indian Air Force UAV Drone Tender 2026 in India for Surveillance Drone, Ground Control Station, and Industrial License – ISI/Drone Rules 2021

Tender Overview

The Indian Air Force invites bids for a comprehensive UAV aviation package described as a Surveillance Drone / Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (V2), including a Ground Control Station (GCS) - software with payload operation control, compatible GCS hardware, and a certified UAV bird with camera and thermal payload housing. The scope includes an aircraft classified per the Drone Rules 2021 Type Certificate, with a defined maximum all-up weight, endurance, wind resistance, and one-way range. The package emphasizes industrial license approval from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and requires OEM participation or OEM-authorized resellers. The opportunity is location-agnostic in the data but targets defense UAV procurement, with an emphasis on integration readiness and field deployability.

Technical Specifications & Requirements

• UAV Bird: classification according to Type Certificate (Drone Rules 2021); sub-category and maximum all-up weight specified by the rules; endurance and wind resistance metrics must meet defined ranges; one-way flight distance must satisfy the stated maximum.
• Surveillance Payload: built-in camera and infrared/thermal camera options within payload housing; payload operations must be controllable via GCS.
• Ground Control Station: software with payload operation control, plus GCS-compatible hardware included in scope; approvals and industrial license compliance.
• Approvals: mandatory Industrial License issued under the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951; OEM/authorized reseller deployment.
• Deliverables: installation, commissioning, testing, configuration, and training by OEM-certified personnel; turnover and OEM turnover criteria apply for bidder and OEM.
• Emphasis on compliance with drone rules 2021 and IS/other standards as applicable.

Terms, Conditions & Eligibility

• EMD: ₹81,000; submission via online or specified instrument.
• Turnover: average annual turnover of bidder over the last 3 financial years; must meet minimum criteria as per bid document; audited balances or CA certificates required.
• OEM Turnover: OEM must meet a minimum average turnover over 3 years; if multiple bids, OEM with highest primary product value must satisfy OEM turnover.
• Installation/Training: performed by OEM-certified resources or OEM-authorised resellers.
• Documentation: GST, PAN, experience certificates, financial statements, EMD proof, technical compliance certificates, and OEM authorizations as applicable.