SOURCE: AFI
In a remarkable turn of events, fishermen off the coast of Odisha, India, made an unexpected catch – a Shikra Target Drone. This intriguing discovery hints at the clandestine operations of the nation’s defense forces and provides insight into its advanced weaponry testing procedures.
The Shikra Target Drone, manufactured by QinetiQ Target Systems Ltd in collaboration with its Indian partner, Anadrone Systems Private Limited, is a sophisticated piece of technology designed for aerial target practice. Typically utilized to test the effectiveness of both air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems, this unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) plays a crucial role in evaluating the prowess of India’s defense arsenal.
Upon examination, the recovered drone was identified as the Banshee Jet 40+, equipped with a powerful 40 kg thrust gas turbine engine. This robust propulsion system allows the Banshee Jet 40+ to achieve impressive airspeeds of up to 140 m/s when flying straight and level, highlighting its agility and maneuverability.