The Indian-developed Archer-NG Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has successfully completed taxi trials in January 2025, marking a significant step towards its inaugural flight. This achievement signifies a major advancement in India's drone development program, with the Archer-NG poised to become a key asset in the country's UAV capabilities.
Following the successful completion of high-speed taxi trials, the Archer-NG is now scheduled for its first flight this month. The successful taxi trials indicate that the UAV is on track to meet its performance targets and pave the way for more rigorous flight tests in the coming months.
The Archer-NG is a weaponized MALE UAV designed for a dual role: conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, and executing precision strike operations. With a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of 1,750 kg and a payload capacity of 300 kg, this drone is engineered for long-endurance flights, high speeds, and superior performance, making it a versatile tool in modern warfare scenarios.
A notable feature of the Archer-NG is its impressive operational range. The UAV can fly up to 1,000 km with both Line of Sight (LOS) and Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) capabilities, enabling it to conduct missions far from its base. This extended range, coupled with its endurance, makes the Archer-NG ideal for monitoring large areas and carrying out long-duration surveillance and strike missions.
Furthermore, the Archer-NG is equipped to carry a variety of precision-guided munitions, including laser-guided rockets, bombs, and loitering munitions with an operational range of up to 100 km. This weaponization transforms the UAV from a mere surveillance platform into a potent offensive force, offering the Indian Armed Forces enhanced precision and flexibility in combat.
The Archer-NG's design incorporates a single-engine, twin-boom pusher configuration. This configuration enhances stability, reduces drag, and improves aerodynamic efficiency, allowing the UAV to remain stable during long flights while carrying heavy payloads and advanced sensor and weapon systems. This design also offers better engine protection and increased maneuverability.
The Archer-NG is expected to surpass the performance of its predecessor, the TAPAS-BH-201 program, which faced challenges in meeting key operational criteria. It represents a more reliable and capable MALE UAV for the Indian Armed Forces, boasting enhanced endurance, payload capacity, and weapon integration.
The upcoming first flight of the Archer-NG has generated considerable anticipation within the Indian defence industry and among global defence observers.
