At a defense aviation exhibit in Paris, Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace (FWDA) introduced the FWD-LM01, a loitering munition capable of operating at a range of 100 kilometers (62 miles). This unmanned aerial system (UAS) is an innovative addition to the startup’s portfolio of kamikaze drones, which are specifically designed with delta wings to extend their operational reach.
The FWD-LM01 is lightweight and portable, with a wingspan of 2 meters (7 feet) and a takeoff weight of 6 kilograms (13 pounds). It can be deployed rapidly, taking less than five minutes to set up without any complex tools, making it an agile option for modern military operations. The drone boasts an operational endurance of 1.5 hours and is capable of soaring to altitudes of 17,000 feet (5,182 meters). It has the capacity to carry up to 2 kilograms (4 pounds) of explosives.
Equipped with an electro-optical infrared sensor suite, the FWD-LM01 is designed for real-time reconnaissance. Advanced AI components enable autonomous targeting and navigation, enhancing its effectiveness in combat scenarios.
This launch signifies India’s formal entry into the international market for long-range UAS technology, marking a considerable upgrade from previous domestic systems that had a maximum range of about 40 kilometers (25 miles). The FWD-LM01 aligns with India’s strategic goal of bolstering indigenous supply chain resilience, as all aspects of its development—from prototyping to flight testing—have been conducted locally.
Suhas Tejaskandat, the CEO and Founder of FWDA, highlighted the significance of the FWD-LM01, describing it as a hallmark of next-generation Indian capabilities in AI-enabled loitering strike systems. He emphasized the platform’s agility and high-altitude testing, positioning it as suitable for contemporary asymmetric warfare. The company is committed to enhancing India’s defense capabilities with solutions that meet global standards.
