In a significant advancement in tactical drone warfare, the Indian Army has achieved a major milestone by successfully developing and testing a First-Person View (FPV) drone equipped with an impact-based, kamikaze-role anti-tank munition. This groundbreaking achievement was announced on Friday after a series of rigorous tests conducted by the Army’s Fleur-De-Lis Brigade in Pathankot, Punjab. The development marks a key step in enhancing the Army’s aerial strike capabilities, providing a low-cost, high-impact solution for modern warfare.
Launched in August 2024, the initiative has been a result of extensive research, development, and trials aimed at creating an advanced, self-reliant drone system. The drone, designed for kamikaze strikes, is equipped with an anti-tank munition capable of delivering precise and devastating attacks on enemy armor. The successful tests of the drone demonstrate the Army’s growing expertise in drone warfare, positioning India as a key player in the development of advanced aerial strike systems.
The FPV drone was developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL). One of the key features of the initiative is the self-reliance of the Indian Army’s efforts. The drone was fully assembled at the Rising Star Drone Battle School, which, as of March 2025, has produced over 100 drones. This in-house production allows for full control over the quality, component integration, and real-time modifications of the drone, ensuring that the final product meets the Army’s precise specifications. The design prioritizes structural integrity, weight distribution, and flight dynamics, resulting in a highly maneuverable drone that can be effectively deployed in operational scenarios.
To ensure safety during operations, a dual-safety mechanism has been integrated into the drone’s payload system. This feature minimizes the risk of accidental detonation during transport, handling, and flight, enhancing operator safety. The trigger mechanism is designed to be activated solely by the pilot, through the radio controller, ensuring that the payload is armed only under controlled conditions. This carefully engineered system helps prevent premature detonation and guarantees the precise execution of missions.
The FPV drone also incorporates a live feedback relay system, providing real-time payload status updates to the pilot through FPV goggles. This feedback allows the operator to make informed decisions during missions, improving the overall effectiveness and accuracy of drone operations. The system underwent comprehensive trials, including explosive testing, aerial assessments, and trigger system evaluations, all of which were validated by TBRL scientists, confirming the drone’s reliability and precision in payload delivery. This achievement marks a pivotal moment in India’s military technological advancements, further enhancing its capabilities in the field of aerial warfare.
IT.
