New Delhi, May 22, 2024 - Indian defence technology company NextLeap Aeronautics has officially launched the Black Drongo, India's first tactical nano-UAV. The unveiling took place at the UAS & C-UAS India 2024 event, held at the Kothari Auditorium, DRDO Bhawan.
The Black Drongo, named after the fearless and agile bird known for its aerial combat skills, is a compact unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) weighing less than 250 grams. Despite its small size, the UAV is packed with advanced features, including both visible and infrared cameras, and the ability to autonomously execute missions.
This innovative UAV is designed to provide critical aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities to Indian soldiers, acting as their "eyes in the sky." By offering real-time situational awareness, the Black Drongo will significantly enhance the effectiveness and safety of military operations.
The launch of the Black Drongo marks a significant milestone in India's defence capabilities. NextLeap Aeronautics has emphasized that this UAV is entirely designed and manufactured in India, reinforcing the country's commitment to developing indigenous defence technologies.
"We are immensely proud to introduce the Black Drongo, a testament to our dedication to strengthening India's defence capabilities," said a NextLeap Aeronautics representative at the launch event. "This UAV embodies our passion for innovation and our commitment to empowering our soldiers with cutting-edge tools."
The unveiling of the Black Drongo has been met with enthusiasm from both the defence community and the general public. The UAV's potential applications extend beyond the military, with possible uses in disaster management, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring.
NextLeap Aeronautics has not yet publicly disclosed the cost of the Black Drongo or its expected production timeline. However, given the increasing demand for UAVs in both military and civilian sectors, the company is likely to ramp up production to meet this growing need.
