French aerospace and defence major Safran may team up with the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation for indigenously developing an unmanned aerial vehicle project at a cost of over $1 billion.
Primarily used for military operations, including reconnaissance and attack, a UAV is an aircraft with no onboard pilot which can be controlled by a remote and fly autonomously based on pre-programmed flight plans.
"A UAV can be used for civil purpose such as assisting in easing traffic congestion and rescue operations. Safran is expected to assist DRDO in developing a series of UAVs. The modalities of participation are yet to be worked out," sources close to the development said.
The state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd is also partnering the project with DRDO.
Safran is a high-technology group involved in aerospace propulsion, aircraft equipment, defence security and communications.
Declining to comment on the issue, a senior Safran executive said, "We are interested in the UAV project but nothing can be divulge d at this moment."
Sources said Israel defence major Israel Aircraft Industries was also in the race for partnering with DRDO. India has recently concluded contracts with IAI for supply of UAVs which could be engaged in the operational missions of reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering.
"The ministry of defence has started involving private sector for development of sub-systems and components. The terms and conditions are laid down on the basis of a contract depending on the type of sub-systems," they said.