SOURCE: AFI
In a landmark achievement for India’s defence and aerospace sector, Bengaluru-based NewSpace Research and Technologies (NRT) has successfully conducted the maiden flight of the Sheshnag-150, a long-range precision strike Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).
Named after the mythological serpent Sheshnag, this 150kg UAV represents a significant step forward in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and its strategic push to bolster unmanned combat capabilities. With its advanced features and swarm-based operational design, the Sheshnag-150 is poised to strengthen India’s border security and address emerging threats in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
The Sheshnag-150 is engineered to meet the evolving needs of the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in the context of long-range operations and swarm-based warfare. Weighing 150kg, the UAV boasts an impressive endurance of five hours and a payload capacity of 25–40kg, enabling it to carry substantial warheads for precision strikes. During its maiden flight, the Sheshnag-150 demonstrated its potential by flying for two hours, showcasing its capabilities as a reliable platform for targeted attacks.
What sets the Sheshnag-150 apart is its ability to operate over a range exceeding 1,000 km. This extended operational range allows the UAV to loiter over target areas, providing real-time surveillance and strategic attack options. Equipped with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems, the drone can perform autonomous operations, including identifying, tracking, and engaging targets with minimal human intervention. These capabilities make it a versatile asset for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, as well as electronic warfare (EW) operations.
One of the most notable features of the Sheshnag-150 is its ability to execute coordinated swarm attacks. Swarm technology involves the deployment of multiple drones working in unison to overwhelm enemy defences and carry out precision strikes. This capability is particularly critical in modern warfare, where adversaries may employ sophisticated air defence systems. By operating in a swarm, the Sheshnag-150 can saturate enemy radar and missile systems, increasing the likelihood of mission success while minimizing risks to human personnel.
The successful maiden flight of the Sheshnag-150 highlights the potential of India’s private sector to deliver cutting-edge solutions in aerospace and defence. It also signals India’s ambition to emerge as a major player in advanced aerospace technology, competing with global leaders in the field of unmanned systems.
NOTE: AFI is a proud outsourced content creator partner of IDRW.ORG. All content created by AFI is the sole property of AFI and is protected by copyright. AFI takes copyright infringement seriously and will pursue all legal options available to protect its content.