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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is accelerating the development of a High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) designed specifically for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) operations. This advanced UAV is poised to significantly enhance India's aerial surveillance capabilities with its impressive specifications.
The UAV boasts a robust 5-tonne platform, enabling it to carry a substantial payload of 2 tonnes. This capacity allows for the integration of a wide range of sensors, cameras, and potentially even offensive capabilities for ISTAR missions.
With an operational ceiling exceeding 35,000 feet, the UAV will fly above most commercial and military aircraft, providing a strategic advantage for surveillance and reconnaissance. Its remarkable endurance of over 25 hours enables prolonged missions, reducing the need for frequent refueling or redeployment, crucial for continuous monitoring and intelligence gathering.
The HALE UAV will be powered by a turboprop engine, renowned for its efficiency and reliability, particularly at high altitudes. Interestingly, General Atomics, a leading UAV manufacturer, will play a limited role as a consultant in the program, primarily to validate certain systems being developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE).
The HALE UAV promises to be a valuable asset for the Indian armed forces, providing critical intelligence and enhancing situational awareness in a wide range of operational scenarios.
