SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur is poised to launch the Sabal-50, touted as India’s most advanced and potentially the world’s most powerful military drone of its kind, according to sources cited by idrw.org . Developed by the institute’s Department of Aerospace Engineering, the Sabal-50 is designed to meet the Indian Army’s evolving needs for both combat operations and emergency logistics, marking a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
The Sabal-50, currently in the pilot phase, is a substantial upgrade over its predecessor, the Sabal-20, an electric unmanned helicopter already deployed by the Indian Army’s Eastern Command for logistics missions. Weighing approximately 150 kg, the Sabal-50 boasts an impressive payload capacity of up to 50 kg, enabling it to carry critical supplies such as medical kits, ammunition, and small arms, or to deliver precision strikes in combat scenarios. Its ability to operate in harsh environments, including the extreme weather conditions of Siachen at altitudes up to 17,000 feet, makes it a versatile asset for the Indian military.
The Sabal-50 is engineered to excel in both tactical and logistical roles, addressing the Indian Army’s operational demands in challenging terrains like the Eastern Theatre, which includes Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Its advanced Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) technology allows seamless operations in confined and rugged areas where traditional aircraft or helicopters face limitations. The drone’s tandem rotor configuration, inspired by the iconic Chinook helicopter, ensures remarkable stability, superior high-altitude performance, and enhanced lifting capacity across diverse environments.
Equipped with cutting-edge autonomous flight systems, the Sabal-50 can operate Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), supported by long-range encrypted communication links and fail-safe features such as auto-return and parachute deployment. Its low-RPM design minimizes noise, providing a low aural signature that enhances stealth for sensitive missions. Additionally, the drone is fitted with an electro-optical/infrared camera, enabling surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities alongside its primary combat and logistics roles. With a maximum speed of 50 km/h and a flight endurance of approximately 40 minutes, the Sabal-50 is well-suited for rapid response operations.
The development of the Sabal-50 comes at a critical juncture, following the success of drone-led operations during Operation Sindoor, which highlighted the pivotal role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare. The operation, launched in May 2025 to target terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, underscored the importance of stealth, precision, and autonomy in military engagements. The Sabal-50’s radar-evasive capabilities and ability to operate in signal-compromised or jammed environments make it an ideal platform for such high-stakes missions.
The drone’s logistics capabilities are equally vital, reducing the Indian Army’s reliance on manned helicopters for delivering supplies to forward bases or stranded units in remote and high-altitude areas. Its modular payload bay can accommodate a range of cargo, from medical supplies to ammunition, secured with vibration-absorbing mounts to ensure safe transport. This versatility positions the Sabal-50 as a game-changer for humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and anti-insurgency operations in challenging regions like the Northeast.
The Sabal-50 is a product of collaboration between IIT Kanpur and EndureAir Systems, a startup incubated at the institute in 2018. Building on the success of the Sabal-20, which was inducted into the Indian Army in November 2024, the Sabal-50 leverages advanced variable pitch technology and locally sourced materials, with approximately 90% of its components manufactured in India. This aligns with the government’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and positions IIT Kanpur as a national hub for drone technology.
Professor Abhishek, who leads the project, emphasized the drone’s ability to meet rigorous operational demands, stating, “The Sabal-50 is designed to operate in extremely harsh environments, offering unmatched stability and performance for both combat and logistics missions.” The institute’s 60-year-old airstrip and state-of-the-art flight lab, equipped with a wind tunnel and 3D printing facilities, have been instrumental in testing and refining the drone’s design.
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