In a significant advancement for self-reliance in the defence sector, the Indian Army has successfully received its first batch of 480 loitering munitions, commonly referred to as kamikaze drones, named Nagastra-1. Developed by Solar Industries, a company based in Nagpur, these lightweight, man-portable munitions embody more than 75 percent indigenous content, underscoring India’s push towards greater self-sufficiency in defence production.
The delivery of these weapon systems was made under a contract signed as part of the Indian Army’s emergency procurement initiative, as reported by news agency ANI. The introduction of Nagastra-1 is expected to significantly enhance India’s capabilities in drone warfare, aligning with contemporary military strategies that rely heavily on precision and efficiency in combat scenarios.
Nagastra-1 is designed for precision strikes and is equipped with advanced technological features that differentiate it from traditional weaponry. Weighing a mere 30 kg, each drone carries a 1-kg high explosive fragmenting warhead, specifically designed to neutralize soft-skin targets efficiently. The system boasts GPS-enabled strike capabilities with remarkable accuracy, hitting targets within a range of up to two metres. This level of precision makes the Nagastra-1 particularly suitable for surgical military operations that demand high levels of accuracy and minimized collateral damage.
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Further enhancing its combat utility, Nagastra-1 is fitted with day and night surveillance cameras that provide real-time reconnaissance and target identification. This feature not only improves the effectiveness of the strikes but also adds a layer of versatility to the operational deployment of the drones.
One of the standout characteristics of the Nagastra-1 is its unique parachute recovery system, which allows for mission aborts and the possibility of reusing the drone. This innovative approach sets Nagastra-1 apart from similar systems available on the global market, potentially offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for modern warfare.
Looking ahead, Solar Industries is already working on the development of advanced versions of these munitions, designated Nagastra-2 and Nagastra-3, which are expected to feature enhanced warhead carrying capabilities, further expanding the operational reach and impact of the drone technology in military applications.
In addition to the Nagastra series, Solar Industries has put forth proposals for the design and development of a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) class of drones, which could further solidify India’s position in the growing and competitive field of unmanned aerial systems. This multifaceted approach towards drone development signifies a proactive effort to enhance India’s defence capabilities through indigenous technology and innovation.
