India 

India's SWiFT program, showcased during high-altitude testing, reveals advancements in indigenous combat drone technology, serving as a crucial precursor to the forthcoming Ghatak UCAV, reflecting India's pursuit of self-reliance in defense.

India's strides in the field of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology have recently been underscored by a significant development at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga. In a video released by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), keen observers noticed three shrouded prototypes of the DRDO Stealth SWiFT UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle) in the background, hinting at a noteworthy advancement in India's indigenous combat drone program.

The SWiFT (Standing Wave Integrated Fused Thruster) program, developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a DRDO laboratory, serves as a crucial precursor to the forthcoming Ghatak UCAV. While the SWiFT weighs around one tonne, the Ghatak is envisioned as a far larger aircraft, weighing approximately 13 tonnes. This initiative marks a significant step in India's quest for self-reliance in combat drone technology.

Recently, the SWiFT completed a successful flight test at the Chitradurga range, showcasing its unique tailless configuration. This successful test, conducted with a budget of approximately Rs 70 crore and approved in 2016, primarily aims to evaluate stealth technologies and high-speed autonomous landing capabilities.

What distinguishes the SWiFT is its unconventional design. Unlike traditional aircraft with separate wings, tails, and fuselage, the SWiFT adopts a single-lift surface design, integrating these components into a unified form. This streamlined approach likely contributes to the prototype's enhanced stealth characteristics.

The CSIR-NAL video, offering a glimpse of the SWiFT prototypes, underscores India's rapid progress in UAV technology. According to a tweet by defense expert Vivek Singh, the testing results, particularly in terms of speed, have exceeded expectations. This success sets the stage for the more ambitious Ghatak UCAV.

In conclusion, India's advancements in indigenous combat drone technology, exemplified by the SWiFT program, reflect the nation's determination to foster a robust defense industry with cutting-edge capabilities. The successful testing of the SWiFT prototype signals a promising future for India's defense landscape.