India successfully tests indigenous UAV 'Rudrastra' in Jaisalmer

IANS June 12, 2025 505 views

India has achieved a significant milestone in defence technology with the successful test of Rudrastra, an indigenous hybrid drone developed by Solar Defence. The unmanned aerial vehicle demonstrated exceptional capabilities including vertical takeoff, long-range surveillance, and precision targeting during trials in Jaisalmer. This breakthrough aligns with India's self-reliance goals and showcases the growing innovation in the country's private defence sector. The Rudrastra is expected to enhance India's military intelligence and border security operations.

"Rudrastra's success could revolutionise India's tactical UAV operations" - Defence Expert
India successfully tests indigenous UAV 'Rudrastra' in Jaisalmer
Jaipur, June 12: India has taken a significant leap in defence technology with the successful test of Rudrastra, an indigenous hybrid vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited.

Key Points

1

Indigenous hybrid drone with 170 km range and precision targeting capabilities

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Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of self-reliant defence technology

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Demonstrates advanced real-time surveillance and autonomous return features

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Developed by Solar Defence with potential military deployment

The test was conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer on Tuesday.

The test marks a strategic step toward enhancing India's military capabilities and addressing regional security challenges, particularly along the Western border with Pakistan.

The key features of the UAV 'Rudrastra' is its range which is more than 170 km.

Its capabilities are VTOL, long endurance, real-time surveillance and precision targeting.

It comes with advanced camera systems, real-time video transmission and autonomous return.

During the trial, Rudrastra flawlessly executed vertical takeoff, surveillance, target acquisition, and safe return.

It maintained a stable real-time video link over a mission radius exceeding 50 km, and demonstrated pinpoint accuracy during target engagement exercises.

Rudrastra is designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and precision strikes.

It can play a pivotal role in espionage and border security, making it a versatile asset for the Indian Armed Forces.

This indigenous drone aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision and complements the DRDO's Rustam programme, under which successful taxi trials of 180 to 220 HP indigenous engines were conducted in February.

The Rudrastra's development highlights the increasing role of the private sector in India's defence manufacturing.

Companies like VTOL Aviation India, which received a DGCA certification in 2023, are now leading innovation in hybrid UAVs.

Defence experts believe Rudrastra's success could revolutionise India's tactical UAV operations, giving the country an edge in intelligence-led and precision-based military missions.

After further trials and formal inductions, Rudrastra is likely to be deployed in key sectors by the Indian Army.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is a proud moment for every Indian! 🇮🇳 Our scientists and engineers are proving that we don't need to depend on foreign defense equipment. Rudrastra will be a game-changer for border surveillance, especially in sensitive areas like J&K. Jai Hind!
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Priya M.
Great achievement, but I hope the government ensures proper funding continues for such projects. Too often we see initial success but then delays in mass production. Also, how will this technology be protected from cyber threats?
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Amit S.
The 170km range is impressive! This will give our forces much better eyes along the Pakistan border. But we should also develop counter-drone tech simultaneously - what if our enemies get similar capabilities? Need to think ahead.
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Neha T.
Atmanirbhar Bharat in action! 👏 So happy to see private companies contributing to defense. My cousin works at Solar Defence - he says the team worked 24/7 to meet deadlines. This is the new India we want to see!
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Vikram J.
Good development, but tests in Pokhran's controlled environment are different from real border conditions. Hope they test in Himalayan terrain too - we need this tech more against China than Pakistan in the long run.
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Sunita R.
As a mother of an army officer, I feel relieved knowing our soldiers will have better protection and intelligence. But please don't stop at drones - our jawans need better body armor, night vision and other personal equipment too. Safety first!

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Tags:
Rudrastra UAV Indian Defence Technology Military Drone Solar Defence Atmanirbhar Bharat VTOL Drone Jaisalmer Test