Indian Army Acquires Nagastra-1: India's First Indigenous Loitering Munition

The Indian Army has inducted the Nagastra-1, a locally developed loitering munition by Solar Industries, Nagpur. This advanced UAV offers precision strikes with GPS-enabled accuracy and silent operation, enhancing battlefield capabilities for infantry troops.

The Indian Army has taken delivery of the Nagastra-1, India’s first indigenous loitering munition developed by Solar Industries, Nagpur. This man-portable, fixed-wing electric UAV is designed for precision strikes in 'kamikaze mode', allowing it to neutralize threats with high accuracy.

Key Features of Nagastra-1

1. Precision Strike Capability: 

   The Nagastra-1 is equipped with GPS-enabled targeting, ensuring a strike accuracy of 2 meters. This precision is critical for neutralizing hostile threats effectively.

2. Operational Range and Endurance: 

   The UAV has a man-in-loop operational range of 15 kilometers and can autonomously reach targets up to 30 kilometers away. It boasts an endurance of 30 minutes, making it suitable for various mission profiles.

3. Portability and Flexibility: 

   Weighing just 9 kilograms, the Nagastra-1 is easily portable and can be carried by infantry troops on foot. This enhances the flexibility and mobility of ground forces, allowing them to deploy the UAV in diverse operational environments.

4. Stealth Capabilities: 

   Its electric propulsion system provides a low acoustic signature, rendering it virtually undetectable by enemies when operating at altitudes over 200 meters. This stealth feature is crucial for maintaining the element of surprise.

5. Ease of Use: 

   Designed with user-friendliness in mind, the Nagastra-1 can be quickly deployed by troops with minimal training. This ensures that even in the heat of battle, the UAV can be effectively used to deliver precise strikes.

Advantages on the Battlefield

The Nagastra-1 offers several strategic advantages:

• Enhanced Precision: With GPS-enabled targeting, the UAV can deliver strikes with exceptional accuracy, minimizing collateral damage and maximizing mission success.
• Silent Operation: The electric propulsion system allows for silent operation, reducing the likelihood of detection by the enemy.
• Extended Range: The combination of a man-in-loop range of 15 km and an autonomous mode range of 30 km provides flexibility for different mission needs.
• Portability: The lightweight design makes it easy for infantry units to carry and deploy, adding a new dimension to their operational capabilities.

Conclusion

The induction of the Nagastra-1 into the Indian Army represents a significant advancement in India’s defense capabilities. Developed by Solar Industries, this indigenous loitering munition combines precision, stealth, and ease of use, making it a valuable asset for infantry troops. With the ability to deliver accurate strikes over extended ranges, the Nagastra-1 enhances the Indian Army’s operational effectiveness and flexibility on the battlefield.