BENGALURU: Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace Technologies, an Indian defence and aerospace company, Friday marked a milestone in Bengaluru by unveiling the FWD-200B, pegged to be the country’s first indigenous bomber unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
The FWD-200B is a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned combat aerial vehicle designed and manufactured entirely in India. With a payload capacity of 100 kgs, it can carry optical surveillance payloads as well as precision air-strike weapons, the firm said.
Addressing the unveiling ceremony in Bengaluru, Suhas Tejaskanda, founder, Flying Wedge Defence, said the FWD-200B fulfils India’s long-awaited dream of producing a combat UAV indigenously after years of failed attempts by agencies like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
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“A key highlight is the massive cost reduction achieved. While an imported US Predator drone costs a staggering Rs 250 crore, the Indian-made FWD-200B will be available for just Rs 25 crores — a tenth of the cost,” the firm said.
Tejaskanda added that this demonstrated the company’s commitment to self-reliance and positions India as a leader in cost-effective defence solutions.
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“With a 12-20 hour endurance, 200 kts/370 kmph max speed, and 200 km ground control station range, the FWD-200B is envisioned as the “nation’s eagle eye” and an aerial shield against threats,” the firm said, adding that its unveiling marks a major boost to India’s Make in India initiative and reduces dependency on costly imports for strategic defence equipment like UAVs.
