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Vayu Baan: IAF’s Helicopter-Launched Drone with 50 km Strike Reach

26 March 20261 min read
DEFENCE & SECURITYVayu Baan: IAF’sHelicopter-LaunchedDrone with 50 kmStrike Reach26 March 2026safalsetu.com

Why in the news

The Indian Air Force unveiled Vayu Baan, an indigenous drone system fired from a moving helicopter in mid-air.

Key facts

  • Name meaning: Vayu Baan = Air Arrow.
  • Category: indigenous Air-Launched Effects (ALE) drone system.
  • Developer: Directorate of Aerospace Design (DAD).
  • Roles: ISR surveillance and precision strike.

Key concepts

TermMeaning
ALEDrones launched from aircraft; extend reach, reduce pilot risk
ISRIntelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance; sensors and drones
MANPADSShoulder-fired missiles able to hit low-flying aircraft

Exam angle

  • Relevant to UPSC Prelims, Mains GS3, CDS/AFCAT, State PSC and NDA.
  • Terms: ALE, ISR, MANPADS.

Test yourself

1. Which organisation developed the Vayu Baan helicopter-launched drone system?

Vayu Baan was developed by the Directorate of Aerospace Design (DAD).

2. What does the Vayu Baan name mean in English?

Vayu Baan translates as Air Arrow.

3. What does MANPADS stand for as used in the Vayu Baan notes?

MANPADS are shoulder-fired missile systems.

This topic is part of Daily Current Affairs 26 March 2026 (11 topics).

All topics of the dayDay quizMarch 2026

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