Indonesia suspends Black Eagle MALE UAV programme
PTDI rolled out the first prototype of its MALE UAV on 30 December 2019. (Photo: KKIP)
Developing a MALE-class UAV is proving more difficult than expected for Indonesia.
Indonesia has taken the decision to cancel its development programme for the Elang Hitam (Black Eagle) MALE UCAV, a military project that commenced seven years ago.
This suspension of this national strategic project demonstrates that developing a viable UAV is a far more complex undertaking than simply creating an airframe.
Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency will divert resources from the Black Eagle project towards civil programmes instead.
PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) had rolled out the first Elang Hitam prototype on 30 December 2019. Delayed by the impact of COVID-19, its maiden flight occurred from Cijulang Nusawiru Airport in Pangandaran,
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
-
![NHI’s NH90: Europe’s multirole helicopter strives to maintain relevance (updated 2026)]()
NHI’s NH90: Europe’s multirole helicopter strives to maintain relevance (updated 2026)
Developed in response to NATO’s needs, NHIndustries’ NH90 remains a cornerstone of European and Middle Eastern fleets – with upgrades planned to extend and improve the capabilities of the versatile and capable platform.
-
![FY2027 budget request highlights shift in USAF’s future aerial refuelling priorities]()
FY2027 budget request highlights shift in USAF’s future aerial refuelling priorities
The USAF’s Next-Generation Aerial Refuelling Programme is coming under scrutiny in the wake of the Pentagon’s FY2027 budget request, signalling a change in how the force could prioritise the modernisation of its tanker fleet.
-
![Can laser-guided rockets and light aircraft help tackle the CUAS cost-curve?]()
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.
