India receives first batch of ALS-50 loitering munitions from Tata
The Indian Air Force is now operating the ALS-50 loitering munition built by TASL. (Photo: TASL)
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has received a first batch of indigenously designed loitering munitions, capable of operating in India’s diverse terrain and climatic environment.
Officials said private-sector Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) had handed over the 2.5m-long, VTOL-capable Advanced Loitering System-50 (ALS-50). The IAF has ordered 100 units of this loitering munition.
With a 3.8m wingspan, it can deliver anti-personnel and antitank warheads weighing up to 6kg to a range of 50km.
Built of lightweight composites and with a cruise speed of 100km/h, the ALS-50 features a rectangular fuselage with rounded edges and shoulder-mounted wings fitted with underwing
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
Can laser-guided rockets and light aircraft help tackle the CUAS cost-curve?
While the move to integrate lower-cost missiles onto more combat aircraft is long overdue, there is also an opportunity for cheaper turboprop platforms to perform CUAS roles.
-
What does the FY2027 US budget signal for the country’s future airpower plans?
The record-breaking defence budget request focuses on bolstering some core next-generation aircraft programmes across each domain, although questions remain on the US's commitment to some key defence programmes.
-
Can UK interceptor efforts keep pace with the rising drone threat?
The recent acquisition announcement for Cambridge Aerospace’s Skyhammer solution is a key step in the UK’s efforts to bolster its counter-UAS capabilities, but more still needs to be done to tackle even smaller drone threats.