India 

India introduces the FWD-200B bomber drone, a cost-effective and indigenous solution for aerial surveillance and precision air strikes, marking a significant milestone in the nation's defence capabilities.

In a significant development for India's defence capabilities, Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace Technologies, a homegrown Indian company, recently introduced the FWD-200B bomber drone. This unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) is a landmark achievement for the nation, marking a departure from previous attempts to develop such technology.

The FWD-200B stands out for its impressive features. Designed to operate for extended durations of 12-20 hours, it boasts high endurance and the capacity to carry advanced surveillance equipment along with precision air-strike weaponry. With a top speed of nearly 370 km/h, it provides robust control capabilities even when operating up to 200 km away, enhancing India's ability to monitor and defend its airspace.

One of the most notable aspects of the FWD-200B is its affordability. While comparable imported drones can cost as much as Rs 250 crore each, this Indian-made UCAV comes with a significantly reduced price tag of just Rs 25 crores. This tenfold reduction in cost underscores India's commitment to self-reliance and represents a major success for the country's "Make in India" initiative.

Suhas Tejaskanda, the founder of Flying Wedge Defence, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that it positions India as a leader in cost-effective defence solutions. The unveiling of the FWD-200B marks a turning point in India's quest for indigenous combat UAV production, overcoming previous challenges faced by agencies like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

While the initial model may exhibit a prototype-like appearance, it signifies just the beginning of a promising journey. Details regarding flight trials, deployment timelines, and final design enhancements are eagerly awaited. Nevertheless, the introduction of the FWD-200B signals India's entry into a new era of defence capabilities, paving the way for enhanced security and self-sufficiency in defence technology.