Assam Rifles Signs MoU with IIIT Manipur to Boost Drone Technology for Defence

In a significant step toward modernizing India’s defence capabilities, the Assam Rifles has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Manipur at Mantripukhri. The collaboration is aimed at advancing drone technology for security, surveillance, and logistics support, marking a milestone in defence-academia cooperation.

Details of the MoU

The agreement was formalized in the presence of Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, IG Assam Rifles (South), and the Director of IIIT Manipur. Both parties emphasized the importance of leveraging academic expertise and defence needs to build cutting-edge technological solutions.

Core Objectives of the MoU

• Develop advanced drone systems for surveillance and reconnaissance.
• Train Assam Rifles personnel in drone flight operations and maintenance.
• Build capacity for DGCA-certified drone training.
• Strengthen logistics support in difficult terrains using drones.

Drone Training Initiative

As part of this collaboration, an Advanced Drone Training and Refresher Course was launched. The programme focuses on,

• Drone flight operations – hands-on piloting and navigation skills.
• Technical maintenance – repair and upkeep of drone systems.
• Certification – training aligned with DGCA standards, ensuring compliance with national aviation regulations.
• Around 80 participants, including Assam Rifles personnel and IIIT faculty members, took part in the inaugural session, showcasing the joint commitment to capacity building and technological innovation.

Strategic Importance of Drones in Defence

Drones have become a force multiplier in modern warfare and security operations. Their applications include,

• Surveillance: Monitoring border areas, insurgency-affected regions, and high-risk zones.
• Reconnaissance: Gathering intelligence in real time.
• Logistics support: Delivering supplies in inaccessible terrains of the Northeast.
• Disaster management: Assisting in relief operations during floods, landslides, or earthquakes.