By Vidit Kumar
Published on June 22, 2024
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is preparing for a critical test of its Tapas Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). In the coming months, Tapas will aim to reach an altitude of 32,000 feet, marking a significant improvement from its previous tests.
Enhancing Performance
This goal follows recent efforts by DRDO to reduce the weight and drag of the Tapas, which are designed to boost the UAV’s overall performance and meet the requirements of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Electro-Optical Payload
For this upcoming test, Tapas will be equipped with its full Electro-Optical (EO) payload, which has already been successfully tested at 28,000 feet. The IAF requires the UAV to operate at a ceiling of 30,000 feet, so this test aims to bridge the gap between the previous 28,000 feet and the required 30,000 feet.
Critical Indicator
Reaching the additional 2,000 feet will be a crucial indicator of the success of the recent weight and drag reduction measures. The outcome of this test is vital for the Tapas program. A successful flight could lead to further trials and eventual adoption by the IAF. However, if Tapas fails to reach the 30,000-foot threshold, DRDO may need to consider additional modifications or explore alternative solutions to meet the IAF’s needs.
Strategic Importance
The Tapas UAV program is strategically important for India. A successful domestic MALE UAV would give the Indian armed forces a vital tool for surveillance and reconnaissance, greatly enhancing their situational awareness and operational capabilities.
