The Indian Army has made a significant leap in indigenous defense capabilities by securing a ₹168 crore contract for the Medium Altitude Persistent Surveillance System (MAPSS), a solar-powered UAV developed by Bengaluru-based NewSpace Research & Technologies under the Ministry of Defence’s iDEX initiative. This marks the first inclusion of solar-powered UAVs in the Indian armed forces, enhancing long-endurance border surveillance across diverse terrains. The MAPSS will play a crucial role in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and electronic intelligence missions, while its low acoustic and thermal signatures increase stealth. This acquisition signals a growing emphasis on unmanned warfare and the role of Indian startups in defense modernization, aligning with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and showcasing India’s commitment to advanced, sustainable military operations.