Nagastra-1

Introduction

Nagastra-1 is a self-destructing drone, also known as a suicide drone, Kamikaze drone, or loitering munition. It is manufactured by the Indian company Economic Explosives Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries. This product is entirely based on Indian technology and is designed for precise attacks on high-value targets.

Developers:

Nagastra-1 is developed by Economic Explosives Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries. The development was done in collaboration with Bangalore-based Z-Motion.

Design:

  • Nagastra-1 weights approximately 9 kilograms.
  • It is a fixed-wing electric Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).
  • It is equipped with advanced guidance systems, including GPS and other homing technologies.
  • Its design incorporates stealth features to evade enemy defense systems.

Features:

  • Accuracy and Attack Capability:
    • Nagastra-1 can attack with an accuracy of up to two meters using GPS.
    • It operates effectively both day and night and in all weather conditions.
    • It uses an infrared seeker (IR Seeker), enabling it to identify and destroy enemy tanks.
  • Weapon and Warhead:
    • It can carry a warhead of up to 1 kilogram.
    • It has pre-fragmented high-explosive warheads.
  • Flight and Range:
    • Nagastra-1 can reach an altitude of up to 4,500 meters.
    • In autonomous mode, its maximum range is 30 kilometers, while in manual operation, it covers a distance of up to 15 kilometers.
    • It can hover over the target for up to 60 minutes.
    • In case of need, the mission can be aborted, and a safe landing can also be executed using a parachute.
  • Propulsion System:
    • Its electric propulsion system produces very little noise, making it undetectable even at altitudes above 200 meters.

Use:

  • Targeting and Attack:
    • Nagastra-1 is designed for precise attacks on high-value stationary and moving targets.
    • It can be launched from various platforms, including ground-based launchers and, in the future, air and sea platforms.
  • Military Use:
    • It enhances the combat capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, providing an effective tool for modern warfare.
    • It signifies India's growing capability in indigenous defense technology, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

Other Important Information:

  • Nagastra-1 incorporates over 75 percent indigenous components.
  • It aligns with the global trend of adopting unmanned systems for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike roles in modern warfare.
  • Similar loitering munitions developed by other countries include Israel's Harop and the American Switchblade drone.

Conclusion

Nagastra-1 represents a significant advancement in Indian defense technology, offering a versatile and precise solution for modern combat scenarios. Its development and deployment mark a step forward in reducing dependency on foreign technology and enhancing the strategic capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. With its advanced features and indigenous design, Nagastra-1 positions India as a competitive player in the global defense landscape.