Unveiling Nagastra-1: A Breakthrough in Loitering Munition Technology

Introduction to Nagastra-1

Solar Industries, headquartered in Nagpur, has successfully delivered the first indigenously developed loitering munition, Nagastra-1, to the Indian Army. Under Emergency Procurement Powers, the Army has placed an order for 480 loiter munitions from Solar Industries’ Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL). Recently, EEL completed the delivery of 120 loiter munitions to an Army Ammunition Depot following successful pre-delivery inspections.

Key Features of Nagastra-1

• Functionality: Nagastra-1 operates as a UAV-based system designed for aerial ambushes. It can hover above target areas and abort attacks if needed, allowing for safe retrieval.
• Kamikaze Mode: In this mode, Nagastra-1 neutralizes threats with GPS-enabled precision strikes, achieving an accuracy of 2 meters, destroying both the target and itself.
• Stealth Capability: With the ability to fly at altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters, the UAV remains undetectable by radar, enabling it to loiter until a target, such as a militant leader's caravan, appears.
• Endurance and Range: This fixed-wing electric UAV boasts an endurance of 60 minutes, with a man-in-loop range of 15 km and an autonomous mode range of 30 km.
• Surveillance and Warhead: Nagastra-1 is equipped with day-night surveillance cameras and a warhead designed to defeat soft-skin targets.
• Advanced Features: The loitering munition can abort missions, recover, and be reused. If the target is not detected or the mission is aborted, it can perform a soft landing using a parachute.

Technical Specifications

Advantages of Nagastra-1

• Stealth Operations: The UAV can fly undetected by radar.
• Precision Strikes: It ensures high accuracy in targeting.
• Flexibility: The munition can abort missions and be safely retrieved if the target is undetected.
• Versatility: Suitable for operations during both day and night.
• Reusability: Unlike many systems, it allows for reuse after mission aborts.

Conclusion

Nagastra-1 signifies a major leap in indigenous defense technology. Its unique capabilities and advanced features establish it as a vital asset for the Indian Army, enhancing its effectiveness in contemporary warfare scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Nagastra-1?
Answer: Nagastra-1 is India's first indigenously developed loitering munition, designed for precision targeting and capable of operating in stealth mode, enhancing the Indian Army's capabilities.

Q2. What are the key features of Nagastra-1?
Answer: Key features include kamikaze mode for precision strikes, stealth capability, surveillance systems, and the ability to abort missions and recover safely.

Q3. How high can Nagastra-1 fly?
Answer: Nagastra-1 can operate at altitudes over 4,500 meters, making it undetectable by radar during missions.

Q4. What is the endurance of Nagastra-1?
Answer: The loitering munition has an endurance of 60 minutes, allowing for sustained operations in the target area.

Q5. Can Nagastra-1 be reused?
Answer: Yes, Nagastra-1 can be reused after aborting a mission, thanks to its ability to perform soft landings using a parachute.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary function of Nagastra-1?
A) Surveillance
B) Aerial ambush
C) Ground attack
D) Communication
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is the altitude capability of Nagastra-1?
A) 2,000 meters
B) 3,000 meters
C) 4,500 meters
D) 5,000 meters
Correct Answer: C