Context:
Recently, a Tapas unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) crashed in agriculture fields near a village in Karnataka’s Chitradurga.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Tactical Airborne Platform for Aerial Surveillance-Beyond Horizon-201 or Tapas BH-201
Long-Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle: TAPAS UAV, previously known as Rustom-II, is an advanced long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle designed for aerial surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Impressive Specifications:
- Wingspan: With a substantial wingspan of 20.6 meters, TAPAS UAV boasts a considerable aerial presence.
- Speed: It can achieve a maximum speed of 225 kmph, allowing for efficient coverage of areas of interest.
- Range: The drone offers extended coverage with a range of over 250 km via the C Band frequency data link and 1000+ km via SATCOM using Kᵤ Band frequency and the GAGAN system.
High Altitude and Endurance:
- The medium-altitude, long-endurance design permits TAPAS UAV to reach altitudes of up to 28,000 feet.
- The drone’s flight endurance is noteworthy, with a range of over 18 hours, enabling it to operate for extended periods.
Technological Advancements:
- Developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment, TAPAS UAV leverages cutting-edge technology for its construction and operation.
- The real-time data collection and transmission capabilities provide crucial intelligence for informed decision-making.
Transportable and Versatile:
- TAPAS UAV’s compact and lightweight design ensures easy transportation and deployment, even in remote and challenging environments.
Operational Success:
- The drone has successfully completed numerous flights, accumulating valuable operational experience.
- With more than 180 flights under its belt, TAPAS UAV has demonstrated its reliability and capabilities.
Showcasing at Aero India 2023:
- TAPAS UAV will participate in Aero India 2023, where it will conduct live-streaming aerial and static displays.
- The event provides an opportunity to showcase the drone’s features and potential to a wider audience.
-Source: Hindustan Times
