Bengaluru-based NewSpace Research and Technologies (NRT) has successfully conducted the first rocket-assisted take-off (RATO) trial of its Sheshnaag-150 long-range loitering munition, marking a significant milestone in India’s indigenous deep-strike capabilities. The trial, executed by the company’s GryphonWorks team, enables the 150 kg one-way attack drone to launch from unprepared surfaces without requiring a conventional runway.
Keywords: Sheshnaag-150, NewSpace Research and Technologies, rocket-assisted take-off, Indian loitering munition, deep-strike drone
The Sheshnaag-150 is designed for precision deep-strike missions with an operational range exceeding 1,000 kilometres, an endurance of more than five hours, and the ability to carry a 25 to 40 kg high-explosive warhead. Company officials described the successful RATO demonstration as “a new chapter for Indian deep-strike capability,” underscoring its potential to support swarm operations across all three branches of the armed forces.
Previously limited primarily to vehicle-based or mobile launches, the addition of the indigenous RATO booster substantially enhances operational flexibility. Forces can now deploy the system from confined, rugged or forward locations, improving responsiveness and survivability in contested environments. The platform incorporates AI-enabled swarm intelligence, allowing multiple units to coordinate attacks, overwhelm air defences and reassign targets autonomously if needed.
The latest trial builds on earlier validation efforts. In April 2026, the Sheshnaag-150 completed a 720 km flight and strike demonstration at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan, confirming long-range navigation, endurance and terminal accuracy. The system first flew in early 2025 at the Chitradurga Aeronautical Test Range and made its public debut at Aero India 2025. It forms part of NRT’s broader Sheshnaag family of one-way attack drones covering ranges from short tactical distances to over 1,000 km.
Developed under the Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM) category, the Sheshnaag-150 addresses the growing demand for cost-effective, mass-producible long-range strike options that can complement more expensive missile systems. Defence analysts note that runway-independent launch capability significantly expands the tactical options available to Indian planners, particularly in high-altitude or infrastructure-scarce theatres.
With this successful RATO trial, NewSpace Research and Technologies has moved the Sheshnaag-150 closer to operational readiness, reinforcing India’s push for greater self-reliance in advanced unmanned systems.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
