India is set to take a major leap in modernising its military aviation infrastructure with the establishment of its first dedicated runway and aviation base exclusively for drones and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) in Meerut. According to sources, the landmark project will be developed at a cost of ₹406 crore and aims to significantly enhance the country’s unmanned aerial capabilities.
A First-of-Its-Kind Aviation Base for Drones
Unlike conventional airbases designed for manned aircraft, this upcoming facility will be purpose-built to support UAVs and RPAs, reflecting the Indian military’s growing reliance on unmanned systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and tactical operations. The project marks a decisive shift towards next-generation warfare technologies and autonomous aerial platforms.
BRO to Lead the Strategic Project
The project is being spearheaded by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under the Ministry of Defence, underscoring its strategic importance. Known for executing complex infrastructure projects in challenging terrains, BRO’s involvement signals the high-priority and security-sensitive nature of the development.
The initiative is based on lessons learned during 2025's Operation Sindoor, which showed how unmanned systems are becoming more and more important in battle. An electronic tender for the facility was released by the chief engineer's office, Project Shivalik, BRO.
With a primary focus on High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) RPAs, the complex, which spans more than 900 acres on Quila Road, will act as a strategic hub for the Indian Army. Over sensitive border areas, these cutting-edge drones offer real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
Once operational, the Meerut drone and RPA base is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of India’s aerial defence strategy.
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