DRDO demonstrates controlled aerial delivery system

Context

Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s R&D lab conducted a flight demonstration of the Controlled Aerial Delivery System of 500 kg capacity (CADS-500).

What is ‘CADS-500’?

• The CADS-500 is used to deliver payload precisely up to 500 kgs at a predetermined location. 
• It makes use of manoeuvrable capabilities of Ram Air Parachute (RAP) to conduct such activities. 
• It also uses Global Positioning System to get the coordinates and altitude & heading sensors to get heading information during its flight. 
• The CADS, consisting of an electronics unit, autonomously steers the path of flight through waypoint navigation towards target location by operating controls.
• Developed by: Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra.

Key-highlights of the demonstration

• The system was para-dropped from an AN32 aircraft and then steered to the pre-designated landing point in autonomous mode. 
• Eleven paratroopers of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force chased the CADS-500 in the air and landed simultaneously at the drop zone in Malpura from an altitude of 5,000 metres.
• The flight demonstration was part of a series of activities to celebrate ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, commemorating 75 years of India’s independence.