Indigenous VTOL Drone Trials by the Army

The Army has conducted successful trials of indigenous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones, designed for cross-border strikes to neutralize enemy artillery positions.

Trial Details and Capabilities

• The trials were held at the Pokhran firing range.
• Drones showcased the capability to take down targets over a range of 50 km.
• Equipped with precision-guided warheads suitable for an anti-personnel role.
• Can relay live video and return to the launch position in automated mode.
• The Army aims to acquire these drones in significant numbers as a stand-off weapon for targeting enemy positions such as artillery guns deep within enemy territory.

Demonstrations by Indigenous Manufacturers

• Indigenous drone manufacturers have been invited to demonstrate their systems.
• Solar Aerospace and Defence Limited (SDAL) successfully tested its UAV, Rudrastra.
• Rudrastra has a total range of 170 km, including loitering over target areas, with an endurance of nearly 1.5 hours.
• The drone deploys airburst munitions from high altitudes, capable of destroying targets over a wide radius.

Strategic Focus on Indigenous Solutions

• The armed forces are emphasizing indigenous solutions to meet evolving battlefield challenges.
• Unmanned systems are a focal point, especially drones with the capability to strike 50-100 km inside enemy territory.
• Mission requirements include dismantling terrorist infrastructure and enemy positions that facilitate infiltration attempts.