Indian Army successfully tests Kamikaze FPV drones

New Delhi: The Indian Army is set to induct the first batch of 100 kamikaze first person view (FPV) drones to destroy enemy assets after successfully demonstrating their ability to neutralise a target in tests conducted at Pathankot.

Developed jointly by the Fleur-De-Lis Brigade (2nd Independent Armoured Brigade) and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh – one of the constituent laboratories of the Defence Research and Development Organisation – the tactical drones have undergone extensive trials to enhance their capabilities as low-cost, high-impact aerial strike systems.

Five such drones had been inducted by the army for trials, while procurement process was on for the remaining 95 UAVs, each costing around Rs 1.4 lakh, sources said.

These are among a series of unmanned aerial vehicles that the Indian Army is inducting as UAVs are changing the dynamics of modern warfare.

The speciality of the FPV drone is an on-board camera that streams real-life video as the UAV approaches the target, making the hit more precise.

The FPV drone was entirely assembled in-house at the Rising Star Drone Battle School, which has fabricated over 100 drones within the formation as of March 2025.

This has ensured complete control over build quality, component integration, and real-time modifications of the UAVs as per TBRL directives. It also optimized structural integrity, weight distribution, and flight dynamics, making the drone highly manoeuvrable and efficient for operational deployment.

The trigger mechanism has been designed in such a way to align with the safety features, ensuring that the payload can only be armed and deployed under controlled conditions.

It is activated exclusively by the pilot via the radio controller, eliminating premature detonation and ensuring precise execution during missions. Additionally, a live feedback relay system provides the pilot with real-time payload status updates through the FPV goggles, enabling informed decision-making while flying the drone.

To enhance operator safety, a dual-safety mechanism has been incorporated into the payload system to prevent accidental detonation during transport, handling, and flight, significantly increasing the UAV’s reliability and minimizing the risks for pilots and personnel handling the drone.

Sources said the system underwent rigorous trials, beginning with explosive testing, followed by aerial vehicle assessments and trigger system evaluations. Each phase was validated by TBRL scientists, confirming the drone effectiveness, accuracy, and reliability.