SOURCE: AFI
Zeus Numerix, a pioneering Indian defence technology startup, has achieved a significant milestone in the realm of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) weaponization with the successful development and trial of its UAV-dropped munitions in the 3-25 kg class. Equipped with an in-house developed Ejector Rack Unit (ERU) as part of its UAV Weaponization Kit (UVW), this innovative system offers versatile configurations capable of carrying single or triple gravity-dropped munitions, with a maximum payload capacity of 55 kg. The Indian Army closely monitored the recently completed trials, underscoring the strategic importance of this advancement for India’s military modernization efforts.
The ERU supports multiple configurations: a single munition or a triple-munition setup, with a total payload capacity of up to 55 kg. Zeus Numerix has developed six distinct munition types, ranging from 2 kg to 25 kg, catering to diverse operational needs—from small-scale tactical strikes to larger, high-impact missions. These munitions are gravity-dropped, relying on the ERU’s precision release mechanism to ensure accurate delivery to targets.
The Indian Army, keen to bolster its UAV-based combat capabilities, oversaw the drop trials of Zeus Numerix’s UAV-dropped munitions at various altitudes. Conducted at elevations of 4,200 meters, 700 meters, and zero (sea level), the trials tested the system’s performance across a spectrum of environmental conditions, simulating real-world battlefield scenarios. The munitions were released from a height of 500 meters, achieving an impressive accuracy of 20 meters—a testament to the ERU’s aerodynamic optimization and the munitions’ design.
These trials, completed as of early 2025, highlight the system’s reliability and adaptability. The ability to operate effectively at 4,200 meters—equivalent to high-altitude regions like the Himalayas—demonstrates its potential for deployment along India’s mountainous northern borders. Similarly, the zero-altitude tests validate its utility in coastal and plains operations, while the 700-meter trials bridge the gap for mid-altitude engagements. The consistent 20-meter accuracy from a 500-meter drop positions this technology as a viable option for precision strikes, even without advanced guidance systems, though integration with such systems could further enhance its lethality.
The UAV Weaponization Kit’s ERU is a standout feature, offering a modular and scalable platform that can transform a range of UAVs into armed assets. The six munition variants (2 kg, 3 kg, 5 kg, and up to 25 kg) provide flexibility for mission-specific payloads, from lightweight fragmentation bombs for anti-personnel roles to heavier explosives for armored targets. The ERU’s ability to carry up to 55 kg in a triple-munition configuration (e.g., two 25 kg bombs and one 5 kg bomb) amplifies its operational impact, making it suitable for both standalone strikes and swarm drone operations.
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