Noida-based defence cos create Iran’s Shahed-type drone that has shaken the air defence systems of US and Israel

Two Indian defence companies have developed drone systems similar to Iran’s Shahed-123 kamikaze drone which has wrecked havoc across the Middle East. The projects—“Project KAL” and “Sheshnaag-150”—are being developed in India, were revealed in recent reports, aim to strengthen deep-penetration strike capabilities, are currently in testing stages, and reflect how modern conflicts, particularly in the Gulf region, are shaping military innovation.

Noida-based IG Defence is working on “Project KAL,” a long-range indigenous kamikaze drone designed to stay airborne for 3 to 5 hours. The endurance allows it to conduct surveillance, gather intelligence, and adjust flight paths before executing precision strikes. It is intended to carry high-explosive payloads targeting critical enemy infrastructure such as radar systems, logistics hubs, and strategic installations.

In addition to its strike capabilities, the drone is being equipped with advanced deployment and resilience features. It will support ground-based rail launch, enabling rapid deployment without the need for conventional runways, thereby improving operational readiness in diverse terrains. The system will also feature truck-mounted launch flexibility, allowing mobile deployment from multiple locations, enhancing survivability by reducing predictability and enabling quick repositioning during operations.


Meanwhile, NewSpace Research and Technologies has showcased the “Sheshnaag-150,” a swarm-capable drone with a payload capacity of up to 40 kg and an endurance of approximately five hours. The system is designed for coordinated attacks and long-range missions exceeding 1,000 km.

The development of these drones comes amid increased global focus on low-cost, long-range unmanned strike systems, influenced by the use of Iran’s Shahed-136 drones in recent conflicts. Reports indicate that even the United States has explored reverse-engineering similar platforms to develop comparable capabilities.

Founded in 2018, IG Defence has brought in several retired senior military officials to guide its technological development. The company operationalized a major production facility in Noida in late 2025 and is planning additional manufacturing units in Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh) and Ganjam (Odisha), aiming to scale up drone production significantly by 2028.

Experts note that such unmanned systems are reshaping modern warfare by combining extended reach, operational persistence, and cost efficiency, making them a critical component of future military strategies.

Drones have become a part of modern warfare

Drones have proved their mettle in the war once again after Ukraine successfully stopped the Russian onslaught similarly Iran’s unmanned aerial vehicles have kept the US and Israel from claiming a victory even after 20 days of conflict. The West Asian nation has successfully deployed its Shahed-136 kamikaze drones against the US and has been able to block the Strait of Hormuz choking the global energy supply.