Optiemus Unmanned Systems (OUS), a subsidiary of Optiemus Infracom Limited, has successfully demonstrated the high-altitude capabilities of its Vajra series drones at the Him Drone-A-Thon 2024, organized by the Indian Army.
This event, held from September 16th to 24th in Leh-Ladakh, tested the limits of India's most advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The trials took place in two phases. Initially, drones were tested at the Wari La Pass, located at approximately 15,000 feet above mean sea level (AMSL). Successful companies then progressed to the Umling La Pass, the world's highest motorable road at 19,200 feet AMSL.
OUS showcased two of its high-endurance quadcopter drones: the Vajra 65 and Vajra 100. Both drones were evaluated on their performance in loitering munitions (bomb drop capabilities) and long-range surveillance.
The Vajra 65 successfully completed a loitering munitions mission at Wari La Pass, traveling 5,000 meters with a flight endurance of 50 minutes and executing a bomb drop from 328 feet. It reached a maximum altitude of 17,460 feet AMSL.
At Umling La Pass, the Vajra 65 further proved its capabilities by reaching an altitude of 21,300 feet AMSL, completing a bomb drop from 1,049 feet, and achieving a range of 7,000 meters with a 40-minute flight endurance.
The Vajra 100 excelled in surveillance, achieving a range of 5,000 meters and a height of 18,280 feet AMSL at Wari La Pass with an 80-minute endurance. It also reached a service ceiling of 19,921 feet AMSL.
At Umling La Pass, the Vajra 100 achieved a range of 10,000 meters, a height of 23,000 feet AMSL, and a 70-minute endurance in the challenging high-altitude environment.
"At OUS, we are proud to lead the development of homegrown drone technology, supporting to advance India's defence and surveillance capabilities," stated Ashok Gupta, Executive Chairman of Optiemus Infracom Limited. "With the participation at Him Drone-A-Thon 2 2024, OUS reaffirms its commitment to create innovative, high-performance unmanned systems that meet the evolving challenges of modern defence and industrial applications.”
These successful trials highlight the reliability and performance of the OUS Vajra series in extreme conditions. This achievement positions OUS as a key player in the Indian drone industry, contributing to the country's defense and security needs.
