In a significant achievement for India’s defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced the successful maiden flight of the indigenous Archer-NG Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) at its Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE). This milestone represents a crucial advancement in the country’s indigenous drone development program.
The Archer-NG is a next-generation UAV developed in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), aimed at fulfilling advanced intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and precision strike requirements. The successful inaugural flight follows extensive ground assessments and high-speed taxi trials, confirming the UAV’s structural ability, engine operation, and flight control systems.
Weighing approximately 1,800 kg, the Archer-NG features a single-engine twin-boom configuration and can carry a payload of up to 400 kg. With an impressive endurance range of 24 to 29 hours and a service ceiling of 30,000 feet, it is equipped to conduct long-duration missions, crucial for the Indian Armed Forces’ operational needs.
The UAV is outfitted with a variety of high-tech features including electro-optical/infrared sensors (EO/IR), synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic warfare (EW) systems. Furthermore, the Archer-NG can be armed with laser-guided bombs, anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), and Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons (SAAW). Designed with four external hardpoints, it allows for quick integration of new payloads and future weapon systems, such as the Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM).
A notable highlight is the UAV’s propulsion system, powered by a domestically developed 177-horsepower turbocharged engine that underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in propulsion technologies and supply chain security. The modular avionics architecture, combined with an autonomous take-off and landing system, furthers DRDO’s goals of network-centric operations and compatibility with manned aircraft.
The successful maiden flight of the Archer-NG marks a significant leap towards achieving strategic autonomy in unmanned warfare for India, building on the legacy of previous DRDO UAV initiatives like TAPAS. Once fully weaponized, the Archer-NG is anticipated to emerge as a multi-role combat and surveillance asset for the Indian Air Force, Navy, and Army, offering unparalleled endurance and strike capacities in the MALE category.
