Made in India AI-powered combat drone Kaal Bhairav bags silver medal at ARCA international innovation in Croatia
India’s defence tech scene just got a major confidence boost as the Kaal Bhairav drone, a homegrown AI-powered marvel, clinched a silver medal at ARCA 2025 in Croatia. This isn’t just another trophy for the shelf—it’s a global signal that India’s drone ambitions are no longer just about catching up, but about leading the pack with innovation, autonomy, and cost efficiency. The Kaal Bhairav’s blend of swarm warfare, adaptive targeting, and a price tag that makes Western rivals blush is a recipe for disruption in the global UAV market.
The Kaal Bhairav, developed by Bengaluru-based Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace (FWDA), is India’s first indigenous Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) autonomous combat drone. With a 3,000 km range, 30-hour endurance, and AI-driven mission autonomy, it’s designed for everything from ISR to precision strikes. Its recent export deal worth $30 million and global recognition at ARCA underscore India’s growing clout as a defence exporter and innovator. The drone’s modular, scalable design and indigenous supply chain make it a strategic asset for both domestic and international buyers.
