In a significant leap forward for the Indian Army’s tactical capabilities, the Fleur-De-Lis Brigade has successfully developed, tested, and validated a First-Person View (FPV) drone equipped with an impact-based, kamikaze-role anti-tank munition. This pioneering project, launched in August 2024, marks the first of its kind in the Indian Army and was developed in collaboration with the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh. The initiative reflects the Army’s commitment to advancing low-cost, high-impact aerial strike systems through rigorous research, development, and testing.

The FPV drone was entirely assembled at the Rising Star Drone Battle School, which has produced over 100 drones within the formation as of March 2025. This self-reliant approach allowed the brigade to maintain complete control over the drone’s build quality, component integration, and real-time modifications in line with TBRL’s directives. By optimizing structural integrity, weight distribution, and flight dynamics, the team ensured the drone is highly maneuverable and operationally efficient, setting a new standard for in-house military drone fabrication.

Operator safety was a top priority in the drone’s design. The payload system incorporates a dual-safety mechanism that prevents accidental detonation during transport, handling, and flight. This feature significantly enhances reliability and minimizes risks for pilots and ground personnel, ensuring the drone can be safely deployed in high-stakes environments.

The drone’s trigger mechanism is meticulously engineered to align with its dual-safety features, allowing the payload to be armed and deployed only under strictly controlled conditions. Activation is exclusively managed by the pilot via a radio controller, eliminating the risk of premature detonation and ensuring precise mission execution. Additionally, a live feedback relay system provides real-time payload status updates directly to the pilot’s FPV goggles, enabling informed decision-making during flight.

The FPV drone underwent a series of stringent trials, starting with explosive testing, followed by aerial vehicle assessments and trigger system evaluations. Each phase was validated by TBRL scientists, who confirmed the drone’s accuracy, effectiveness, and reliability in delivering its payload. These successful trials position the drone as a game-changing force multiplier in modern tactical engagements, offering a versatile and cost-effective solution for precision strikes.

The project, based in the general area of Pathankot, has already inducted five drones, with an additional 95 units in procurement. The development was spearheaded by Maj Cephas Chetan, working closely with a TBRL team led by Dr. Raghvendra.

This milestone by the Fleur-De-Lis Brigade exemplifies the Indian Army’s dedication to innovation and self-reliance in defense technology. The FPV drone, with its kamikaze-role anti-tank munition, represents a transformative advancement in tactical warfare, providing a low-cost, high-impact solution for modern combat scenarios.