Solar Defense and Aerospace Ltd (SDAL) has entered into a partnership with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR–NAL) to collaboratively create and develop an indigenous 150-kg-class Loitering Munition Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (LM-UAV).

The agreement, completed at a ceremony conducted at CSIR–NAL, establishes SDAL as the chosen industry partner selected via a competitive bidding process.

Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh, who oversaw the signing, praised CSIR for its innovative method of involving the private sector right from the start of a strategically important defense program. He characterized the partnership as a move to speed up India's advancement in advanced aerospace technologies.

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On November 29, in a post on X, the Minister emphasized the program’s technological goals, pointing out that the LM-UAV will include an innovative solar-powered support system and a completely domestic Wankel engine providing a range of 900 km. “Featuring GPS-denied navigation, a low radar cross-section, and AI-driven DRI features, this advanced UAV highlights India's growing technological advantage in strategic aerospace,” he stated.

SDAL stated it would be pivotal in implementing and scaling the system, highlighting its dedication to fostering self-sufficiency in defense. CSIR and the Solar Group will collaborate to enhance our military’s capabilities in asymmetric warfare through the use of local technologies," the firm stated, emphasizing their commitment to the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The LM-UAV will utilize a Wankel rotary engine developed by NAL, which has received CEMILAC certification for integration into aircraft and flight testing.

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The system is projected to provide a range of 900 km, endurance lasting six to nine hours, and a maximum altitude of five kilometres. Engineered to have a minimal radar cross-section, the UAV will be able to function in areas where GPS is unavailable.

It will feature an AI-powered electro-optical/infrared payload that provides enhanced detection, recognition, and identification abilities.

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The initiative signifies a significant effort aimed at the domestic advancement of loitering munitions—an increasingly important aspect of contemporary warfare—and highlights a more profound collaboration between public and private sectors within India’s aerospace and defense landscape.