SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has given the green light to a proposal by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) to transform its SWIFT UAV technology demonstrator into a full-fledged mini-UCAV bomber program.
Originally conceived as a 1-ton technology demonstrator for the larger Ghatak UCAV, the SWIFT UAV has rapidly evolved due to the increasing significance of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare. The ADE’s proposal to convert it into a mini-UCAV bomber is a strategic move to bolster India’s aerial capabilities.
The new SWIFT UAV will be equipped with an internal weapons bay, a critical feature enhancing its stealth capabilities by reducing its radar cross-section (RCS). This design element is crucial for penetrating enemy airspace undetected. To power this formidable machine, the DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) is providing the Manik engine, a small turbofan engine previously developed for the Nirbhay cruise missile program.
With a payload capacity of approximately 200 kilograms, the SWIFT UAV is poised to become a versatile asset for the IAF. It can potentially carry a variety of precision-guided munitions, making it a lethal force multiplier on the battlefield.
With this development, India joins an elite group of nations possessing advanced stealth UCAV technology. The SWIFT UAV, once operational, is expected to play a crucial role in offensive operations, providing the Indian armed forces with a significant edge in future conflicts.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.