a Bengaluru-based defense and aerospace technology firm, recently revealed the FWD-200B, India’s inaugural indigenous bomber unmanned aircraft. With a focus on cost-effectiveness and self-reliance, the firm aims to position India as a leader in innovative defense solutions.
Incorporated in 2022 by Suhas Tejaskanda, the company aims to reduce India’s reliance on costly bomber UAV imports, boost the Make in India initiative and position India as a global drone manufacturing and technology hub while enhancing national security.
Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace has also secured the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) type certification for indigenous UAV technology and has deployed drones to safeguard the Indian Prime Minister in partnership with Special Protection Group (SPG) and L&T.
“For over 15 years, India’s pursuit of combat unmanned aircraft remained a distant dream, despite significant investment and repeated attempts by DRDO with projects like Tapas and Rustom failing. Today, with the launch of the FWD-200B, India not only fulfils this dream but also joins the league of nations with advanced combat aircraft capabilities,” said Suhas Tejaskanda, Founder of Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace.
“While the US Predator costs a staggering 250 crores, our indigenous FWD-200B, built with state-of-the-art technology and manufactured in India, slashes the cost to a mere 25 crores. This not only demonstrates our commitment to self-reliance but also positions India as a leader in cost-effective defence solutions”, he added.
The manufacturing plant for the FWD-200B is a 12000 sq ft unit on 1.5 acre land in Electronic City. The bomber aircraft has a payload capacity of 100 kgs and is classified as a MALE Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (medium-altitude, long-endurance). The Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) consists of optical surveillance payloads and is integrated with missile-like weapons for precision air Strikes.
Cost-Effective Innovation
Founder Suhas Tejaskanda highlighted the significant cost reduction compared to foreign counterparts, with the FWD-200B priced at just ₹25 crores (USD 3M), a fraction of the cost of similar U.S. models. This affordability underscores India’s commitment to self-sufficiency in defense technology.
Advanced Capabilities
The FWD-200B boasts a payload capacity of 100 kgs and is classified as a MALE Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle, offering medium-altitude, long-endurance capabilities. Integrated with optical surveillance payloads and precision air strike weapons, it ensures versatility in various combat scenarios.
Suhas Tejaskanda, Founder, Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace with CTO Prajwal Bhat at the unveiling of FWD-200B, indigenous bomber unmanned aircraft
Performance Specifications
With a maximum speed of 200 kts/370 kmph and an endurance capacity of 12-20 hours, the FWD-200B offers impressive performance metrics. Additionally, its 498 kgs maximum takeoff weight and ground control station range of 200 kms further enhance its operational flexibility.
Path to Certification and Global Reach
The company plans rigorous flight testing followed by certification from the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC). Once certified, the FWD-200B aims to be integrated into Indian forces while also targeting export opportunities, particularly in regions where cost-prohibitive alternatives are impractical.
Top Photo: Suhas Tejaskanda, Founder, Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace at the unveiling of FWD-200B, indigenous bomber unmanned aircraft.
Sources: The Hindu Business Online; Adda247