India-France Ties: France Offers Support In Underwater Drones - What Are UUVs And How Do They Work?

In a move to strengthen defence partnership with India, France has offered 100% transfer of technology for 110 kilo-Newton thrust aircraft engines and underwater drones with full capabilities to India.

France government has also taken a big step to discuss and support the construction of nuclear attack submarines. According to the reports, these points are expected to be discussed at the India-France strategic dialogue between NSA Ajit Doval and French Diplomatic Advisor Emmanuel Bonne on September 30 in Paris.

What are Underwater drones?

Underwater drones, also known as unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), are submersible vehicles that can operate underwater without a human on board. Underwater drones are cost effective and can perform tasks in risky and challenging environment. They help in quick deployment and can go to depth.

They are used for various purposes like surveillance, marine research, weaponry, environmental monitoring, search and operation, defence and security. These drones are remotely controlled by a human operator form shore. These drones offer technical advantage in military operations.

France has number of underwater drones with capabilities like Unmanned Combat Underwater Vehicle (UCUV), Seasam. UCUV is a large drone with a hydrodynamic hull, a large flank array sonar, and a payload bay.

India’s Bid To Strengthen Defence Measures

France has been a trusted supplier of weaponry to India. This offer from France has come at the time when Indian Navy is approaching PM Narendra Modi led Indian government for building two nuclear attack submarines for future operations.

India is looking for a partner to develop an engine that can produce at least 110 kN of thrust for future aircraft projects, such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Safran, an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets has offered to jointly design, develop and produce the engine for India.

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