New Delhi: Indian drone and anti-drone technology manufacturer IndoWings Pvt Ltd has unveiled the UCAV_IN_X-2, a conceptual jet-powered unmanned aerial vehicle designed for high-speed intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
The New Delhi-based company is developing the fixed-wing platform around a 6.5 kgf-class micro-turbine engine, marking a departure from the electric propulsion systems commonly used in smaller drones. According to IndoWings Chief Technology Officer Neeraj Pradhan, the aircraft is being designed to achieve a maximum speed of 350–380 kmph, an operational range of 100 kilometres and an endurance of up to 30 minutes.
The proposed design incorporates retractable landing gear to reduce aerodynamic drag and a stabilised electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) camera system for day-and-night surveillance. Autonomous waypoint navigation is also planned to reduce dependence on continuous manual control.
IndoWings is focusing on the drone’s ability to operate in challenging electronic warfare environments, including situations where satellite-based navigation signals are degraded or jammed.
Founded in 2020 by CEO Paras Jain, the company develops anti-drone defence systems, radar technologies and radio-frequency spoofing solutions under the broader Make in India initiative.
Despite the UCAV designation, IndoWings has not disclosed any weapons systems or confirmed an armed configuration for the aircraft. Its current emphasis is on a modular payload architecture that can be adapted to different mission requirements.
The UCAV_IN_X-2 remains a technology demonstrator under development. Its projected speed, range and endurance are targets that will require validation through flight testing and performance trials. The aircraft’s final capabilities will depend on the outcome of these tests and the impact of operational payloads.
