In a major leap for India’s defence and aerospace capabilities, the country is developing ‘Rama,’ the world’s first dual stealth drone, designed to outsmart both radar and infrared detection systems. This game-changing platform is set to be tested during India’s upcoming military exercise ‘Cold Start’, the largest such drill since Operation Sindoor.
Cold Start: India’s Biggest Military Drill in Years
Scheduled for the first week of October, ‘Cold Start’ will test the preparedness of India’s armed forces against new-age aerial threats. The exercise will evaluate drones, counter-drone systems, and AI-driven air defence technologies, helping the military identify gaps and strengthen its defences.
Senior officials confirmed that the drill will serve as a benchmark for India’s capability to respond to advanced aerial warfare tactics, especially in a region witnessing rapid drone proliferation.
What Makes ‘Rama’ Different?
Developed by Hyderabad-based Veera Dynamics and Binford Research Lab with support from the Ministry of Defence, ‘Rama’ is not just another UAV—it’s the world’s first drone with dual stealth capabilities.
Key features include:
Radar & Infrared Stealth: Special indigenous coating material reduces detection by up to 97%.
Lightning-Fast Strikes: Capable of attacking within seconds after locking on to targets.
AI-Enhanced Navigation: Integrates seamlessly with India’s existing air defence systems.
Air Marshal Dixit: ‘India Must Stay Ahead’
At the Counter UAVs and Air Defense Systems Conference in Delhi, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit emphasised that India’s drone ecosystem will exceed 10,000 units within the next five years.
“Our adversaries are trying to emulate us, but India must always stay a step ahead,” he said.
Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Rakesh Sinha highlighted the need for AI-powered counter-drone systems capable of fast identification and interception, calling them “the future of warfare.”
Why This Matters
With only the United States, China, and Russia currently operating radar-evading drones, India’s Rama marks a bold entry into elite military tech. It underscores India’s push towards indigenous defence innovation, strengthening its vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in aerospace and security.
