India is accelerating efforts to develop an advanced loitering munition UAV through a collaboration between CSIR-NAL and Solar Defence & Aerospace. The proposed system is a long-endurance “kamikaze” drone capable of deep-strike missions, offering extended loiter time and precision targeting capabilities. With a range nearing 900 kilometers and advanced AI-enabled electro-optical sensors, the UAV can autonomously identify and engage targets even in electronically contested environments. Its indigenous rotary engine enhances efficiency and endurance, while stealth features improve survivability. The program represents a significant step toward strengthening India’s autonomous strike capabilities and reducing reliance on imported defense technologies.





