SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Amidst whispers and speculation, India’s indigenous Archer-NG, a Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), is poised to take flight. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of DRDO, the Archer-NG promises to strengthen India’s aerial surveillance and strike capabilities.
Contrary to speculation, the Archer-NG is not a licensed variant of the Israeli Heron MkII. While it draws inspiration from existing technologies, it marks a significant leap forward in indigenous design and development. In fact, the project leverages the extensive expertise gained through the Tapas program, a crucial stepping stone in India’s UAV development journey.
The Archer-NG’s distinct Single Engine Twin Boom (SETB) configuration offers several advantages over conventional designs. This configuration optimizes performance and fuel efficiency, perfectly aligning with the Armed Forces’ requirements for a MALE UAV capable of operating at over 30,000 feet altitude.
The Archer-NG ingeniously utilizes many existing Tapas components, including its landing gear and front fuselage. This not only fosters cost-efficiency but also ensures a foundation of proven technology. However, the wings and tail design will undergo significant modifications, incorporating a higher degree of composite materials for improved performance and payload capacity.
The Archer-NG is on an ambitious timeline. Rollout and the maiden flight are expected within the next few months of 2024. This will be followed by two years of intensive testing, pushing the platform to its limits to ensure operational readiness. By the end of 2026, the Archer-NG will be ready for user trials, with weapons testing commencing in mid-2025.
The Archer-NG’s capabilities extend beyond mere surveillance. Its SETB design and weapon integration enable it to deliver strikes with precision, making it a versatile asset for the Indian Armed Forces. Its ability to operate at over 30,000 feet provides unmatched situational awareness, further enhancing its combat effectiveness.
The Archer-NG marks a significant milestone for India’s indigenous defense technology. It not only bolsters aerial defense capabilities but also demonstrates the country’s growing prowess in developing cutting-edge UAV systems. As the Archer-NG takes to the skies, it promises to redefine India’s role in the global UAV landscape, showcasing the power of innovation and self-reliance.
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