The Indian Army has unveiled the Kharga Kamikaze drone, a high-speed and cost-effective aerial system designed for intelligence, surveillance, and tactical operations. Official sources revealed that the lightweight drone, capable of traveling at 40 meters per second, marks a significant stride in the Army’s modernization efforts.
The Kharga drone is equipped to carry up to 700 grams of explosives and features an advanced navigation system alongside a high-definition camera. Its countermeasures against enemy electromagnetic jamming, along with a range of approximately 1.5 kilometers, make it a versatile asset in modern battlefield scenarios. At an estimated cost of just ₹30,000 per unit, the drone provides a highly economical solution for reconnaissance and offensive missions.
Described as a “suicide drone,” the Kharga Kamikaze drone is capable of precision strikes on enemy targets while evading radar detection. An Army official noted that similar drones have been used effectively in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting their potential in high-stakes operations.
The development follows the successful completion of the two-day integrated field firing exercise, ‘Kharga Shakti’, conducted by the Kharga Corps at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges. This large-scale exercise tested the Army’s ability to conduct combined arms operations in a simulated battlefield environment.
During the exercise, troops demonstrated advanced combat techniques through live firing drills, tactical maneuvers, and coordinated air support missions. Swarm drones, loiter munitions, quadcopters, and logistics drones were among the cutting-edge technologies incorporated in the drills.
Lt Gen Pushkar, who oversaw the exercise, commended the troops for their operational readiness and professional excellence. He emphasized the importance of integrating modern technology like the Kharga drone into the Army’s arsenal to maintain a decisive edge in future operations, particularly on the western front.
“The ‘Kharga Shakti’ exercise underscores our commitment to modern warfare techniques and ensures the highest standards of combat readiness,” Lt Gen Pushkar stated.
