SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is making significant strides in its commitment to the development of the SWiFT stealth UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) program, a move driven by the performance shortcomings of traditional short- and medium-range UAVs and the operational challenges faced by conventional UAVs, particularly their vulnerability to detection and engagement, have underscored the need for advanced capabilities that can operate effectively in modern warfare environments.
The recent conflicts have demonstrated that traditional UAVs can be easily detected and targeted, relegating them to secondary roles on the battlefield. As such, the IAF’s push for the SWiFT program reflects a strategic pivot towards incorporating stealth technology into its unmanned systems.
The SWiFT program addresses this critical need by developing a 1.1-ton UAV with advanced stealth capabilities. This design makes it significantly harder for enemy radar systems to detect, allowing it to operate in contested airspace with greater freedom.
One of the most compelling features of the SWiFT UAV explained to idrw.org will be its modular payload capacity. The drone will be capable of accommodating a variety of advanced sensors and systems, including:
- Synthetic Aperture Radars (SAR): For high-resolution ground mapping and target identification.
- Wide-Area Motion Imagery (WAMI) Sensors: For real-time surveillance over extensive areas.
- Wide-Area Maritime Surveillance Sensors: To enhance maritime domain awareness and monitoring.
- Signals Intelligence Packages: For electronic warfare and intelligence gathering.
Additionally, the SWiFT UAV will also be equipped with a sensor turret that houses electro-optical and infrared cameras, providing enhanced imaging capabilities for intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance (ISR) missions.
Typically, drones operate within the line-of-sight of their control centres; however, the SWiFT UAV is designed to extend its operational range significantly. When equipped with miniature beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) satellite datalink systems, the UAV can conduct missions at greater distances, enabling more versatile operational capabilities.
Beyond reconnaissance and surveillance, the SWiFT UAV can be armed with up to 100 kg of GPS-guided smart munitions, with individual munitions weighing between 10 kg and 20 kg. This armament capability enhances the UAV’s role in precision strikes and allows it to engage targets in contested airspace effectively, mitigating the risks posed by adversary air defences.
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