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
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
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
-
![Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)]()
Maximise survivability with advanced electronic warfare (video)
BAE Systems’ all-digital EW delivers 360-degree threat awareness in contested environments, boosts survivability, and cuts lifecycle costs.
-
![US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist]()
US Air Force seeks avionics upgrades for ageing T-38 Talon as T-7A Red Hawk delays persist
The USAF is looking for commercial avionics solutions to improve the T-38 Talon’s reliability, readiness and flight safety as continued T-7A Red Hawk delays increase the likelihood that the legacy trainer will remain in service longer than planned.
