Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Amid rapidly evolving warfare and shifting battlefield dynamics across the world, India is accelerating the transformation of its indigenous defence capabilities. At the centre of this next-generation push is the Archer-NG (Next Generation) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, which is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) into a multi-role combat platform.
Initially envisioned as a medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drone focused on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), Archer-NG is now being upgraded to perform combat missions against both ground and aerial targets.
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According to DRDO officials, the platform’s current development phase prioritises advanced ISR performance through the integration of high-resolution electro-optical and infrared sensors, synthetic aperture radar, and secure high-bandwidth data links. These systems are aimed at delivering real-time battlefield awareness and strengthening operational decision-making.
The UAV is expected to achieve endurance of over 18 hours and operate at service ceilings above 30,000 feet, enabling long-duration missions across diverse operational environments.
The next stage of development centres on weaponisation and multi-role deployment. Archer-NG is being configured to carry precision-guided munitions, anti-tank guided missiles, and air-to-air weapons to support counter-UAV operations and precision strike capabilities.
DRDO is also working on integrating artificial intelligence-enabled target recognition and swarming functionality, allowing the platform to coordinate with manned fighter aircraft and other unmanned systems in future network-centric warfare scenarios.
A senior DRDO scientist described the shift as a transition from an “eye in the sky” to a “sensor-shooter node”, reflecting a broader strategic emphasis on persistent surveillance, rapid target acquisition and strike capability within a single mission profile.
The programme marks a significant step in India’s effort to build indigenous, combat-ready unmanned systems aligned with the demands of modern warfare.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
