India’s UCAV demonstrator makes its first flight
This is the SWiFT UAV demonstrator, though without the tail with which it was fitted during its maiden flight. (DRDO)
India has sent its stealthy UCAV demonstrator soaring into the air for the first time, but a lot of work lies ahead.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out the first flight of the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT), a scaled-down version of the 15t Ghatak UCAV, on 1 July.
Powered by an NPO Saturn 36MT turbofan engine, the SWiFT flying wing’s maiden flight occurred at the Chitradurga test range in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The demonstrator performed taxi trials in September 2021.
The SWiFT has a vertical stabiliser to help ensure safety till it completes more flight trials. The tail will then be removed as per the original design.
The airframe, undercarriage, flight control system and
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Indonesia receives first A400M, considers four more aircraft]()
Indonesia receives first A400M, considers four more aircraft
The A400M aircraft that has been delivered was first ordered in 2021 with a second aircraft due to arrive next year.
-
![Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters]()
Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters
The €1.22 billion (US$1.41 billion) follow-on order for the additional helicopters will complement the 19 AW249 already ordered by Italy.
-
![October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled]()
October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled
During October 2025, several countries and organisations signalled their intention to acquire loyal wingman uncrewed aircraft systems — designated by the US Air Force as Collaborative Combat Aircraft — or to study the capability further, while various new uncrewed helicopters were showcased.
-
![Australia starts upgrade programme for P-8A Poseidon fleet]()
Australia starts upgrade programme for P-8A Poseidon fleet
The upgrades will work to strengthen the country’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities, with one more aircraft due to be delivered by 2026.
