Indian Army Inducts Indigenous Kamikaze Drones and Smart Munition Systems

The Indian Army has inducted advanced indigenous kamikaze drones and UAV-launched precision-guided munition systems developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Adani Defence & Aerospace. The systems have been supplied under the Army’s emergency procurement programme aimed at improving operational readiness in sensitive border areas.

Among the newly inducted platforms is the AGNIKAA VTOL-1 FPV Kamikaze Drone, a loitering munition designed for precision strikes against enemy targets and tactical positions. The drone is capable of vertical take-off and landing, allowing operations in difficult terrain and confined locations. Defence officials said the system underwent operational trials in challenging conditions before induction into service.

The Army has also received the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Munition (ULPGM), an indigenous smart munition capable of engaging stationary as well as moving targets with high accuracy. The system is equipped with advanced targeting technology and is designed to operate effectively during both day and night missions.

According to defence sources, the precision-guided munition includes anti-jamming and anti-spoofing features that allow it to function in electronic warfare environments and GPS-denied conditions. Military experts believe such systems will significantly improve the Army’s tactical strike capability and reduce operational risks for troops during combat missions.

The induction of these indigenous systems highlights India’s growing focus on self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the government’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. The Indian armed forces have increasingly accelerated the procurement of locally developed drones, smart weapons, and surveillance systems to meet modern battlefield requirements.

Defence analysts say the growing importance of loitering munitions and unmanned combat systems in recent global conflicts has made indigenous drone technology a key priority for future warfare preparedness.