In a groundbreaking achievement, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has triumphantly conducted a flawless flight trial of a highly advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This autonomous stealthy UAV not only showcased technological maturity but also propelled India into the league of nations excelling in Flying Wing configurations.
Crafted by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bangalore, the UAV, designed for lethal capabilities, underwent a series of flight trials in various developmental stages. The culmination of these trials highlighted the successful development of a robust aerodynamic and control system, cutting-edge Real-Time and Hardware-in-loop Simulation, and a state-of-the-art Ground Control Station.
The aircraft's maiden flight took place in July 2022, and subsequent tests focused on optimizing avionic systems, integration processes, and flight operations. The final flight in the series, conducted in the tailless configuration, underscored the technological prowess achieved by the DRDO team.
What sets this UAV apart is its innovative autonomous landing capability, eliminating the need for ground radars, infrastructure, or a pilot during take-off and landing. The use of onboard sensor data fusion, coupled with indigenous satellite-based augmentation using GAGAN receivers, enhances the accuracy and integrity of GPS navigation, allowing for runway flexibility with surveyed coordinates.
The complex arrowhead wing platform of the aircraft, manufactured with lightweight carbon prepreg composite material developed domestically, stands as a testament to India's self-reliance in aerospace technology.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh applauded DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry for this significant achievement, emphasizing that the indigenously developed critical technologies will further fortify the Indian Armed Forces. This successful flight trial marks a milestone in India's pursuit of cutting-edge defense capabilities and reaffirms the nation's commitment to self-sufficiency in aerospace technology.