Rudrastra UAV Achieves Precision Strike Success in Army Trials at Pokharan, Demonstrates 170-km Range

In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) successfully conducted a key trial of its advanced Hybrid VTOL UAV, Rudrastra, at the Pokharan Firing Range on June 11, 2025. This crucial test represents another important milestone under the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at strengthening India’s self-reliance in military technology.

The Rudrastra UAV has been designed as a multi-role aerial platform, capable of carrying out a variety of missions ranging from reconnaissance and surveillance to precision strike operations. One of its most important features is its vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, which allows it to operate without a runway — making it especially valuable for tactical operations in difficult or remote terrains.

Highlights of the Trial

During the recent trial, the Rudrastra demonstrated impressive operational performance:

• It maintained a stable, high-quality video link while covering a mission radius of over 50 km.

• The UAV successfully returned to its launch point after completing its mission, with a total operational range—including loitering time—exceeding 170 km.

• It showcased an estimated endurance of 1.5 hours, providing sustained aerial presence over target areas.

A major highlight of the test was the mid-altitude release of a precision-guided anti-personnel warhead. The UAV executed the strike with remarkable accuracy, and the munition performed a low-height airburst detonation, effectively neutralizing a simulated target over a wide area — a feature especially valuable for engaging enemy personnel and light assets in open or semi-covered battlefields.

Key Specifications of Rudrastra UAV

• Type: Hybrid VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

• Operational Range: Over 170 km

• Endurance: Approximately 1.5 hours

• Mission Radius (with stable video link): Over 50 km

• Payload: Precision-guided anti-personnel warhead

• Strike Capability: Mid-altitude release, low-height airburst detonation

• Features: Real-time surveillance, precision strike, vertical takeoff/landing, extended loiter capability

Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Action

The successful trial of Rudrastra is a clear example of the progress India is making towards developing homegrown defence systems. With increasing global uncertainties and the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare, platforms like Rudrastra are expected to play a vital role in the Indian Army’s future operations.

The UAV’s combination of mobility, endurance, and strike precision makes it an ideal asset for border surveillance, counter-insurgency missions, and special operations support, particularly in areas where conventional manned systems may face operational limitations.

With this successful demonstration, Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited is poised to take further steps towards operational induction of Rudrastra into the Indian armed forces, contributing to India’s long-term vision of defence modernization and self-reliance.