The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to issue a Request for Information (RFI) for the development of advanced ground-launched, Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) loitering munitions, aiming to enhance India’s tactical strike capabilities. These munitions are envisioned to have a range of 500 to 1,000 kilometers and carry a 50 kg warhead, enabling precision strikes and extended loitering times, which are crucial for modern warfare scenarios. This initiative aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaign, emphasizing indigenous innovation and development. The munitions are expected to feature autonomous navigation and real-time control capabilities, allowing for flexible operations in contested environments such as the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This move follows the IAF’s recent induction of the ALS-50 loitering munition, developed by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), which boasts a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability and has demonstrated precision strike capabilities during trials in diverse terrains, including high-altitude areas like Ladakh and hot conditions in Rajasthan . The ALS-50’s successful deployment underscores India’s growing proficiency in developing sophisticated unmanned systems, and the forthcoming RFI indicates a strategic push towards enhancing long-range, autonomous strike capabilities through indigenous means.
