ADE’s ALUAV (Air Launched UAV)

The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) under DRDO has initiated a process to industry partners for new project. The project focuses on the design, development, and integration of an Air Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (ALUAV). ADE aims to advance India’s UAV technology through collaboration with expert industry partners.

Overview of the ALUAV Project

ADE is developing an experimental UAV that can be launched from helicopters, aircraft, and UAVs. This UAV will be expendable, with a trainer version that can be recovered and reused. Its technical features include swarming capabilities, collision avoidance systems, and secured data links.

The ALUAV will:

• Operate for at least 4 hours.
• Fly at 20,000 feet, with a maximum drop altitude of 25,000 feet.
• Weigh under 75 kg with its canister.
• Use an electric power plant with a Battery Management System (BMS).
• Carry payloads like Electro-Optical systems, communication relays, and identification systems.

ADE aims to test swarming operations and ensure safe separation using parachutes. Additionally, the UAV will have a self-destruct mechanism for security purposes.

Objectives of this process

ADE seeks partners with experience in UAV development, particularly in aerodynamics, mechanical design, and flight control systems. The selected partners will assist in the prototyping phase and could become long-term collaborators.

Partners will need to:

• Design the ALUAV based on the provided specifications, design assistance and funds.
• Develop flight-ready prototypes and conduct performance tests.

Industry Partner Qualification Criteria

ADE requires partners to meet technical, managerial, and financial qualifications. The partners should have experience in designing and testing UAVs. They must also demonstrate capability in meeting aerospace standards and completing complex engineering projects.

To qualify, partners must:

• Have experience in UAV design and testing.
• Understand certification processes from CEMILAC and DGAQA.
• Prove financial stability, with profitable records for the last three years.

Work Scope and Deliverables

Partners will develop around 20 prototypes in the first phase. If the prototypes succeed in trials, the project may expand to include more units.

Partners will handle:

• The ALUAV’s design and airworthiness certification.
• Development of Ground Control Stations (GCS) and Remote Video Terminals (RVT).
• Integration of secure communication links and systems.

ADE will provide access to DRDO’s testing facilities and resources, including the ATR Chitradurga test range.

Overall, The ALUAV project offers Indian industry partners a chance to participate in a groundbreaking UAV initiative. The project will advance India’s defense capabilities through cutting-edge technology. Qualified partners are encouraged to join this initiative and contribute to the future of Indian UAV development.