The large-scale use of Shahed-series drones by Iran in the ongoing conflict with Israel has prompted Indian defence planners to accelerate the development of indigenous long-range strike drones, recognising the growing importance of low-cost unmanned systems in modern warfare.
According to defence sources, India has intensified testing and development of its homegrown strike drone programmes, including the Sheshnaag system and Project KAL, to strengthen the country’s unmanned combat capabilities.
Shahed Drones Highlight New Warfare Model
In the ongoing Middle East conflict, Iran has deployed waves of low-cost Shahed drones capable of travelling long distances and overwhelming air defence systems. The effectiveness of these unmanned attacks has demonstrated how relatively inexpensive drones can strike targets deep inside enemy territory.
The development has triggered a renewed push within the Indian military establishment to ensure comparable capabilities are developed domestically.
Sheshnaag Strike Drone Undergoing Advanced Trials
India’s Sheshnaag-150 long-range strike drone, developed by Bengaluru-based defence startup Newspace Research Technologies (NRT), has recently undergone highway launch trials, reflecting efforts to test unconventional operational deployment scenarios.
The drone, which first flew about a year ago, is designed as a swarming attack platform capable of operating over long distances.
Key capabilities include:
- Operational range exceeding 1,000 km
- Endurance of over five hours
- Ability to loiter over target areas for surveillance and strike missions
- Payload capacity of 25–40 kg warheads
The system is also capable of autonomous target identification, tracking and engagement, reducing the need for constant human intervention.
Project KAL Also Fast-Tracked
Alongside Sheshnaag, another Shahed-type long-range strike drone programme called Project KAL has also been placed on an accelerated development path.
Defence planners believe such drones will play a critical role in future warfare, particularly for deep-strike missions, surveillance and swarm-based attacks.
Rising Importance of Unmanned Warfare
The push to accelerate indigenous drone development reflects India’s growing emphasis on self-reliance in defence technology and preparation for next-generation warfare.
With the increasing use of loitering munitions, swarm drones and AI-enabled autonomous systems, long-range strike drones are now viewed as essential assets for modern military operations.
