DRDO Archer-NG MALE UAV: India's Potent Armed Drone First Flight in 2024
Defense News ,India :- The DRDO Archer-NG (Next Generation) is a Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in India. It is designed to perform Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, as well as precision strike operations. The Archer-NG will be equipped with a variety of sensors, including electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, radar, and electronic intelligence (ELINT) systems. It will be equipped with technologies like avionics, software, a Ground Control Station and a Ground Data Terminal developed for the Tapas BH-201-UAV program
Development and Design:
- Development began in 2009 under the Rustom-1 program, initially focused on ISR capabilities.
- In 2022, the program transitioned to Archer-NG with modifications for weapon integration and combat roles.
- Features a twin-boom configuration with a single engine, offering high endurance and payload capacity.
- NOT a copy of existing UAVs like the Israeli Heron MkII, but draws inspiration from various technologies.
Specifications:
- Length: 11.3 meters (37 ft)
- Wingspan: 18.6 meters (61 ft)
- Height: 2.8 meters (9.2 ft)
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 1,500 kg (3,307 lb)
- Payload Capacity: 300 kg (661 lb)
- Endurance: 18+ hours
- Cruising Altitude: 30,000 ft (9,144 m)
- Line-of-sight Range: 250 kilometers (Los ) 1000 Km (SATCOM BLoS)
- Engine : Single turboprop
Armament:
- Four hardpoints for carrying a variety of weapons, including:
- Third-generation "Fire & Forget" UAV Launched Precision Guided Munition (ULPGM) Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM): Range of 4 km, with future variants exceeding 6 km.
- Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon: Range of 100 km.
- Other potential weapons: laser-guided bombs, air-to-surface missiles, electronic warfare pods.
Capabilities:
- High-resolution electro-optical (EO) and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors for day/night, all-weather surveillance.
- Secure communication systems for real-time data transmission.
- Fully autonomous flight capabilities with advanced autopilot and navigation systems.
- Precision strike capabilities for engaging ground targets with minimal collateral damage.
Significance:
- The Archer-NG is a significant step forward for India's indigenous UAV development program.
- It enhances India's aerial surveillance and strike capabilities, reducing dependence on foreign imports.
- Plays a crucial role in modern warfare, providing battlefield intelligence and precision attack options.
Current Status:
- Firstl flight expected by mid-2024
- Undergoing user evaluation trials with the Indian Armed Forces.
- Expected to be inducted into service by 2026-2027.
Further Development:
- Future variants planned with improved range, payload capacity, and weapon options.
- Integration with Artificial Intelligence (AI) for enhanced decision-making and autonomous operations.
The DRDO Archer-NG is a potent weapon system that strengthens India's military capabilities and positions the country as a leader in UAV development.
