In the world of modern warfare, kamikaze drones, also called loitering munitions have become one of the most talked-about innovations in defense technology. Designed to hover, observe, and strike with precision, these drones combine the intelligence of surveillance with the impact of a missile.
They’re fast, lightweight, and can be deployed in the blink of an eye.
From the mountains of the Middle East to the forests of Eastern Europe, militaries around the world are using kamikaze drones to reshape tactical combat.
And now, India is stepping up, building its own homegrown drone tech that’s powerful, smart, and ready for the frontlines.
The World’s Best Kamikaze Drones
Let’s first explore some of the most renowned kamikaze drones used in real-world combat scenarios.
#1 Switchblade 300/600 – USA
Manufacturer: AeroVironment
Combat Use: Widely used by U.S. forces in Ukraine and the Middle East.
- Flight Time: 15-40 minutes (depending on model)
- Speed: Up to 185 km/h
- Payload: Anti-personnel and anti-armor warheads
- Navigation: GPS + onboard cameras
- Range: 10+ km
The Switchblade series is lightweight and highly portable. It fits into a backpack and can be deployed in minutes. The 600 variant is designed for armored targets and provides real-time video to operators.
#2 Harop – Israel
Manufacturer: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
Combat Use: Used in conflicts across Syria, Azerbaijan-Armenia, and Gaza.
- Flight Time: Up to 6 hours
- Payload: High-explosive warhead
- Range: 1,000 km
- Guidance: EO/IR sensors + autonomous navigation
The Harop is one of the most advanced kamikaze drones, capable of loitering for hours before going into targets with pinpoint accuracy. It’s ideal for SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) missions.
#3 Lancet – Russia
Manufacturer: ZALA Aero Group
Combat Use: Active in Ukraine conflict
- Flight Time: 40 minutes
- Range: ~40 km
- Payload: Explosive warhead (1–3 kg)
- Speed: 110–130 km/h
Compact, simple, and deadly, the Lancet has been Russia’s go-to kamikaze drone for field operations. It includes real-time targeting and a cost-effective build.
Indian Innovation: The Rise of Kamikaze Drones from insideFPV
With the Make in India defense initiatives, insideFPV is at the forefront of developing high-performance, cost-effective indigenous kamikaze drones for tactical operations.
Here's a detailed breakdown of our flagship models:
#1 7-Inch FPV Kamikaze Drone
- Flight Time:
- No Load: 26 minutes
- Full Load: 10 minutes
- Battery: 6S 5000mAh 40C
- Camera: 480×640 resolution
- Image Transmission: 5.8 GHz, 2W
- Receiver: ELRS 915 MHz
- Operating Temp: -10°C to +40°C
- Max Speed: 30 m/s (~108 km/h)
- Payload Capacity: Up to 2 kg
Ideal For: Close-range tactical missions and surveillance with light payloads. It's agile, easy to maneuver, and perfect for hit-and-run drone missions in urban or hilly terrain.
#2 10-Inch FPV Kamikaze Drone
- Flight Time:
- No Load: 29 minutes
- Full Load: 10 minutes
- Battery: 6S 5000mAh 40C
- Camera: 480×640 resolution
- Image Transmission: 5.8 GHz, 2W
- Receiver: ELRS 915 MHz
- Operating Temp: -10°C to +40°C
- Max Speed: 30 m/s (~108 km/h)
- Payload Capacity: Up to 3 kg
Ideal For: Mid-range attack operations. The extended no-load flight time offers strategic loitering before impact. This drone is a sweet spot between portability and power.
#3 15-Inch FPV Kamikaze Drone
- Flight Time:
- No Load: 25 minutes
- Full Load: 15 minutes
- Battery: 8S 16000mAh
- Camera: 1500 TVL FPV Camera
- Image Transmission: 5.8 GHz, 2.5W
- Max Speed: 120 km/h
- Payload Capacity: Up to 7.5 kg
- Altitude Capability: Up to 5,000 meters
- Additional Features: Supports thermal imaging, GPS, and modular add-ons
Ideal For: Long-range, high-impact missions. This drone can carry heavier explosives or advanced tech like thermal cameras, making it highly versatile for both day and night missions.
#4 15-Inch FPV Kamikaze Dropper
- Flight Time:
- No Load: 25 minutes
- Full Load: 15 minutes
- Battery: 8S 12000mAh
- Camera: 1500 TVL FPV Camera
- Image Transmission: 5.8 GHz, 2.5W
- Max Speed: 120 km/h
- Payload Capacity: Up to 7 kg
- Altitude Capability: 5,000 meters
- Additional Mechanics: Servo-controlled payload drop system
Ideal For: Precision supply delivery or delayed detonation missions. The servo-dropper mechanism allows operators to release payloads mid-flight at specific coordinates or via manual trigger.
Also read: Kamikaze drones for sale: Where to buy and what to ask the seller
Why Homegrown Kamikaze Drones Matter More Than Ever
For years, India depended on foreign defense tech. But that’s changing, fast. Building our own drones isn’t just about saving money (though they are more affordable). It’s about building technology that actually fits our terrain, strategies, and needs.
And because these drones are built right here in India:
- They’re easy to maintain
- They can be quickly customized
- They reduce our reliance on imports
- And they create tech jobs at home
insideFPV’s drones are the result of close collaboration with military experts, engineers, and pilots who understand exactly what modern missions demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a kamikaze drone and how does it work?
A kamikaze drone, or loitering munition, is an unmanned aerial vehicle designed to hover around a target area and strike with precision. Unlike traditional drones, it doesn’t return, it’s a one-way mission.
Are insideFPV drones ready for military deployment?
Yes. insideFPV drones are designed in collaboration with defense professionals and tested in various conditions to ensure real-world performance. They’re built to serve tactical and operational roles in defense environments.
Can your drones be customized for specific missions?
Absolutely. We offer modular add-ons like thermal cameras, GPS modules, and servo-controlled droppers. Our team can tailor configurations based on your specific operational needs.
How do Indian kamikaze drones compare in pricing?
One of the biggest advantages of our drones is affordability. Being made in India, they avoid import duties and currency fluctuations making them cost-effective without compromising on performance.
