Successful Test of Indigenous High-Speed Flying-Wing UAV

Why is it in the news?

DRDO successfully tests Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator, an indigenous high-speed flying-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).

More about the news

Tailless fixed-wing aircraft with payload and fuel housed in its main wings.
Scaled-down version of a futuristic unmanned combat aerial vehicle.
Designed and developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment.
Allows take-off and landing from any runway with surveyed coordinates using GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN).
Positions India in the elite club mastering flying wing technology.
Potential use as a covert stealth combat drone.

Applications of Drones in Defence

· Used to identify enemy positions, assess terrain, and track movements.

· Equipped with precision-guided munitions for targeting enemy positions.

· Locates and rescues personnel in hazardous or inaccessible areas.

· Faster and easier deployment, providing operational flexibility.

Challenges to India’s Drone Potential

· Existing communication gaps between lawmakers and drone makers.

· Dependence on imported key components and materials required for drones.

· Insufficient research and development in drone technology.

· Supply-side issues related to standardization of components and mass production.

Government Initiatives to Promote Drones

· Drone Shakti Scheme: A scheme to institutionalize and create a framework for multiple stakeholders to collaborate.

· PLI Scheme: Production Linked Incentive scheme for drones and drone components.

· Drone Rules 2021: New rules to facilitate startups and small and medium-sized enterprises in the drone sector.

AMIGOS IAS