India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is reportedly working to develop a weaponized version of its Archer-NG unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), significantly expanding the drone's capabilities beyond its initial surveillance role.
This development follows a showcasing of a scaled model of the Archer-NG at the Aero India 2025 exhibition, held in Bengaluru in February.
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), a DRDO laboratory, originally presented the Archer-NG as a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV. The model displayed at Aero India featured a streamlined, twin-boom design powered by a single engine, highlighting its efficient aerodynamics.
Notably, the model was integrated with two Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAMs), hinting at a future combat role.
The Astra Mk1, already in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF) on fighter jets like the Su-30MKI and Tejas Mk1A, is a powerful weapon. It has a range of 80-110 kilometers and can reach speeds of Mach 4.5 (over four times the speed of sound). This makes it a formidable tool for engaging enemy aircraft.
The key upgrade for the weaponized Archer-NG will be the integration of an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. This advanced radar technology will serve two crucial functions.
First, it will act as a surveillance radar for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. Second, it will function as a fire-control radar, guiding the Astra Mk1 missiles to their targets in air-to-air combat. AESA radars are superior to older radar types because they can track multiple targets simultaneously and are more resistant to jamming, providing crucial advantages in a combat.
This new variant will be capable of carrying two Astra Mk1 missiles. Sources indicate the UAV will be used to target aerial threats, including manned helicopters and other unmanned MALE and High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) systems operated by adversaries.
The AESA radar's multi-target tracking capability will significantly improve the Archer-NG's ability to monitor the airspace and engage threats with accuracy. This addition positions the Archer-NG as a unique bridge between traditional surveillance drones and dedicated combat aircraft.
Beyond air-to-air combat, the weaponized Archer-NG is also being designed for air-to-ground missions. It is expected to carry precision-guided munitions, such as the Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) or laser-guided bombs, enabling it to strike ground targets. This versatility reflects the Indian armed forces' need for platforms that can adapt to a wide range of combat situations.
While the development of the weaponized variant is underway, sources confirm that the immediate priority is to obtain certification for the non-weaponized version of the Archer-NG.
Sources indicate that trials for the weaponized version are anticipated to begin within the next three years.
