Bengaluru: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by DRDO, known as TAPAS 07 A-14, recently crashed in a field near Vaddikere village in Karnataka. The incident occurred during a test flight, resulting in the drone’s complete wreckage and scattering of its equipment. Authorities are investigating the reasons behind the crash, while DRDO is providing details to the Defence Ministry.
An unfortunate incident unfolded as an indigenous UAV, named TAPAS 07 A-14, crashed during a trial flight near Vaddikere village in Karnataka’s Chitradurga district. The drone, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), suffered significant damage upon impact.
After the crash, local villagers gathered at the site, and relevant authorities were promptly informed of the mishap. Videos and images from the scene depict the shattered remains of the UAV, with its equipment scattered across the field.
Defence officials have confirmed the occurrence, stating, “A Tapas drone being developed by the DRDO crashed during a trial flight in a village of Chitradurga district, Karnataka.” The Defence Ministry has been apprised of the situation, and an inquiry is underway to determine the specific causes of the crash.
About TAPAS UAV:
TAPAS, short for Tactical Aerial Platform for Advanced Surveillance – Beyond Horizon, is a domestically produced medium altitude long endurance UAV.
The UAV made its debut flight appearance at the Aero India air show and aviation display in 2023. The event showcased the drone’s capabilities through static and aerial demonstrations.
TAPAS is designed to address the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, Tracking, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) requirements of the armed forces.
Equipped with the ability to fly for over 18 hours continuously, the UAV can operate at altitudes as high as 28,000 feet.
Formerly referred to as Rustom-II, TAPAS is engineered to operate either autonomously or under remote control, following pre-programmed flight plans. This adaptability allows the drone to perform effectively during both day and night conditions.