ideaForge Unveils ZOLT, India’s New UAV with Smart Strike Capability

New Delhi – ideaForge, one of India’s leading drone manufacturers, has officially launched its latest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) “ZOLT”, positioning it as a combat-capable platform that blends long endurance, payload flexibility, and precision strike ability. This marks a significant evolution in India’s indigenous UAV ecosystem, expanding from surveillance drones to weaponized platforms.

Key Features

• Endurance & Range: ZOLT can remain airborne for up to six hours, providing commanders with persistent intelligence, surveillance, and loitering strike options. With an operational range of over 50 km, it supports medium-range tactical missions and standoff operations.

• Payload Capacity: Capable of carrying up to 10 kg, the UAV can be fitted with diverse mission modules—from ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) payloads to smart munitions—making it a versatile battlefield asset.

• Weapon Integration: In partnership with Zeus Numerix, ZOLT is equipped with smart guided munitions that enable accurate targeting of enemy assets. These munitions provide precision strike capabilities, offering tactical forces a decisive edge while minimizing collateral damage.

Operational Roles

ZOLT is designed for counter-insurgency, border security, and limited tactical strike missions. By bridging the gap between small quadcopters and larger MALE-class drones, it delivers both extended surveillance and offensive capability in a compact form factor.

Strategic Importance

The unveiling of ZOLT signals a broader trend in India’s defence sector—moving towards indigenously developed combat UAVs. For the Indian armed forces, ZOLT represents a cost-effective and locally produced alternative to imported loitering munitions and armed drones. Its modular architecture, combined with precision guidance technology, reflects India’s drive to enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The Role of Zeus Numerix

Zeus Numerix, a Pune-based defence technology firm, has played a critical role by developing the guidance and targeting systems integrated into ZOLT’s strike payloads. The company specializes in precision guidance kits and UAV weaponization systems, providing scalable solutions for converting unmanned platforms into combat-ready assets.

Future Outlook

With ZOLT, ideaForge has strengthened its portfolio beyond ISR-focused UAVs, directly supporting India’s vision of equipping its forces with indigenous, versatile, and weaponized unmanned platforms. The system’s mix of long-duration flight, offensive payload integration, and affordability makes it a strong candidate for deployment in both domestic security operations and battlefield scenarios.