Context:
Indian Air Force launches “Vayu Baan” project
- India’s first helicopter-launched drone system
- Developed by Directorate of Aerospace Design (DAD)
- Provides stand-off strike capability beyond 50 km
- Functions as surveillance drone and kamikaze weapon
What is Vayu Baan?
Vayu Baan (Air Arrow) is an indigenous Air-Launched Effects (ALE) drone system.
- Launched from:
- Moving helicopter mid-air
- Functions:
- Surveillance (ISR)
- Precision strike (kamikaze drone)
- Key Innovation:
- Integration of unmanned systems with manned platforms
What is Air-Launched Effects (ALE)?
ALE refers to drones launched from aircraft to extend operational capability.
- Purpose:
- Enhance reach
- Reduce risk to pilots
- Use Cases:
- Surveillance
- Electronic warfare
- Target neutralization
What is ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance)?
ISR refers to gathering battlefield information.
- Components:
- Intelligence (data collection)
- Surveillance (continuous monitoring)
- Reconnaissance (target identification)
- Tools:
- Sensors
- Drones
What is MANPADS?
MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defence Systems)
- Definition:
- Shoulder-fired missile systems
- Threat:
- Can target low-flying aircraft
- Vayu Baan advantage:
- Keeps helicopters outside threat range
Important for which exams?
- UPSC CSE Prelims
- Science & Tech section; defence systems frequently asked
- UPSC Mains GS3
- Internal security, indigenisation of defence, border management
- CDS / AFCAT
- Defence current affairs; IAF capabilities
- State PSC
- Current affairs & defence technology
- NDA
- General knowledge — Indian armed forces technology
