A state-owned company will provide engines for UAVs that can hit targets at least 560 miles away

India is planning to develop long-range drones powered by locally-made engines in a public-private partnership, the Economic Times reported on Monday.

State-owned National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has signed a deal with a private sector company to use its Indian-developed Wankel engines in new unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), according to the report.  

So far, India has been relying on foreign companies to supply it with engines to power almost all versions of its unmanned systems.

NAL will initially transfer technology for its 30-horsepower (hp) Wankel engine to power drones designed to fly for up to nine hours. The UAVs are expected to hit targets that are over 560 miles away.

NAL's 30 hp engine has already received a crucial certification for flight testing, according to the report.

A 50 hp engine is also in the works, the news outlet said, quoting unnamed sources. It added that certifications and trials are expected soon.

A 90 hp engine, which can boost a heavier class of UAVs, is also being envisaged, according to the report.

Solar Defense and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) is the private partner for the drone project.

As per the agreement, NAL will transfer technology and develop the drones, while SDAL will oversee manufacturing and marketing in the country and abroad.

The drone will be able to operate in environments where Global Positioning System (GPS) technology doesn't work. Its AI-enabled payload is expected to ensure real-time intelligence and situational awareness, the report said.

India is tapping domestic manufacturers to bolster Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative, especially in the defense sector.  

On Sunday, Modi lauded a recent drone challenge set up to promote young innovators, which was facilitated by the Indian Space Research Organization. He also highlighted developments in India's private space ecosystem and cited the recent inauguration of Skyroot Aerospace's Infinity Campus in Hyderabad as "a new boost" for the sector.