India Reveals Deadly ‘Swadeshi’ Kamikaze Drones With 1,000 Km Range

The Indian kamikaze drone is set to be around 2.8 meters long, with a wingspan of 3.5 meters. It falls into the category of loitering munitions, which are regarded as do-and-die machines. The use of such drones has been prevalent in conflicts like the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.

In the Ukraine conflict, they have been used to target Russian infantry and armored vehicles, with the capability to loiter in a designated area for a prolonged period, before being directed to ram the target using explosives. These drones can also be deployed in swarms to overwhelm enemy defenses and radar systems. The concept of kamikaze suicide missions was first witnessed towards the end of World War II, when Japanese pilots would aim their fighter planes at Allied aircraft and ships.

Dr. Abhay Pashilkar, Director of the National Aerospace Laboratories, emphasizes that the development of indigenous kamikaze drones by India represents a significant advancement in modern warfare. The Indian kamikaze drone is estimated to weigh about 120 kg and will carry an explosive charge of 25 kilograms. Additionally, it is projected to have an endurance of approximately nine hours, allowing it to hover continuously in the designated area until directed to carry out its mission.

The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has given the green light for a project on Loitering Munitions or kamikaze drones, with CSIR-NAL as the nodal laboratory and participation from other major engineering laboratories of CSIR. This technology is anticipated to address national security needs and will have the capability to function in GPS-denied scenarios, utilizing the Indian NAViC for navigation and targeting. Dr. Pashilkar points out the potential of such drones, citing their effectiveness in modern conflicts.

The development of indigenous kamikaze drones by India is seen as a significant step in adapting to the evolving landscape of warfare.