DefenceSaturday, 28 March 2026·The Hindu
IAF launches Vayu Baan, India’s first helicopter-dropped drone project in March 2026
The Indian Air Force issued an RFP in March 2026 for Vayu Baan, a helicopter-launched UAS with reconnaissance and strike roles.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In March 2026, the Indian Air Force’s Directorate of Aerospace Design issued a Request for Proposal for Vayu Baan, India’s first helicopter-launched Unmanned Aerial System, designed to extend helicopter strike reach beyond 50 km.
Key specifics
- Vayu Baan is a helicopter-launched Unmanned Aerial System (UAS).
- The Directorate of Aerospace Design (DAD) issued the RFP in March 2026.
- The system can engage targets from over 50 km away.
- It has an endurance of approximately 30 minutes.
- The drone can carry a warhead of 500 g to 1 kg and operate in GNSS-denied environments.
Exam lens
Defence technology question, March 2026 RFP, DAD, 50 km range, 30-minute endurance, 500 g to 1 kg warhead — TNPSC may ask India’s first helicopter-dropped drone project and its mission profile.