India’s Drone Leap: Shahed-Type Systems and the Future of Warfare

The rapid evolution of drone warfare has reshaped modern conflicts, and India is now stepping into this domain with striking innovations. Two Noida-based defence companies—IG Defence and NewSpace Research and Technologies—have unveiled projects that mirror Iran’s Shahed-series kamikaze drones, which have challenged U.S. and Israeli air defence systems in the ongoing Middle East war.  

IG Defence’s “Project KAL” is designed as a long-range kamikaze drone capable of remaining airborne for three to five hours. This endurance allows it to conduct surveillance, gather intelligence, and adjust flight paths before executing precision strikes. Equipped with high-explosive payloads, the drone is intended to target critical infrastructure such as radar systems and logistics hubs. Its deployment flexibility is notable: rail-based ground launch and truck-mounted systems enable rapid mobility, reducing predictability and enhancing survivability in diverse terrains.  

Meanwhile, NewSpace’s “Sheshnaag-150” introduces swarm capabilities, allowing multiple drones to coordinate attacks over distances exceeding 1,000 km. With a payload capacity of up to 40 kg and endurance of five hours, it represents a leap toward scalable, long-range unmanned strike systems.  

These developments reflect how global conflicts influence military innovation. Iran’s Shahed-136 drones have demonstrated the disruptive potential of low-cost, long-range UAVs, forcing adversaries to rethink air defence strategies. India’s entry into this space signals both technological ambition and strategic foresight, aligning with global trends where drones are increasingly central to warfare.  

Founded in 2018, IG Defence has already operationalized a production facility in Noida and plans expansion in Jhansi and Odisha by 2028, aiming to scale up drone manufacturing. Experts note that such systems combine extended reach, persistence, and cost efficiency—qualities that make them indispensable in future military doctrines.  

In essence, India’s indigenous drone projects highlight a critical shift: warfare is no longer defined solely by traditional platforms, but by unmanned systems capable of reshaping the battlefield at scale.