Such UAVs will significantly reduce dependence on fighter jet support in the future. Dogfights, ground support, strafing and reconnaissance, it ticks all the boxes
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is stepping up capabilities of the Archer-NG unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) into a multi-role combat platform by integrating Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAMs) and an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. This will enable this drone to engage in air-to-air combat and precision strikes against ground targets. The Archer-NG’s new design will successfully marry surveillance and combat roles of an UAV, significantly bolstering the Indian armed forces teeth to strike. The immediate focus remains on certifying the non-weaponized variant. This will lead to better response and shorter response time at both the China and Pakistan borders.
