The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful demonstration of the flight trial of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator. This indigenous high-speed flying wing UAV was tested at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga, Karnataka.

The country's technology readiness levels are affirmed by the successful demonstration of the autonomous stealthy unmanned aerial vehicle in flight, underscoring the maturity of this cutting-edge technology.

The country's technology readiness levels are underscored by the successful flying demonstration of this autonomous secret unmanned aerial vehicle. By achieving successful flight in the tailless configuration, India has now joined the exclusive ranks of nations proficient in controlling the Flying Wing configuration. The UAV, a creation of DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, stands as a testament to the capabilities of this premier research laboratory within the Defense Research and Development Organisation.

In July 2022, the inaugural flight of this aircraft marked the beginning, followed by six subsequent flight trials featuring various developmental configurations, utilizing two prototypes manufactured in-house.

These flight tests resulted in notable accomplishments, advancing the development of a robust aerodynamic and control system. Additionally, milestones were achieved in the integration of Real-Time and Hardware-in-loop Simulation, alongside the establishment of a state-of-the-art Ground Control Station.

The team successfully optimized avionic systems, integration, and flight operations, leading to the seventh and final flight in the configured state.

The aircraft prototype, featuring a complex arrowhead wing platform, is designed and manufactured using lightweight carbon prepreg composite material developed domestically. The inclusion of fibre interrogators for health monitoring in the composite structure exemplifies self-reliance in aerospace technology.

A unique capability was demonstrated through the autonomous landing of this high-speed UAV without the reliance on ground radars, infrastructure, or a pilot. This capability allows take-off and landing from any runway with surveyed coordinates. The achievement was made possible through onboard sensor data fusion and the use of indigenous satellite-based augmentation, employing GAGAN receivers to enhance the accuracy and integrity of GPS navigation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry for the successful flight trial of the system. He emphasized that the indigenous development of such critical technologies will further strengthen the nation's capabilities.

Image source: ANI