The Kapothaka (also spelled Kapothaha) which means “dove” is believed to be a predecessor of Nishant UAV system.
During the next 4 years ADE developed a small RPV to validate in-flight video transmission capabilities and to implement ground take off and parachute recovery.
Kapothaka had an all-up-weight (AUW) of 130 kg (290 lb) and was powered by an conventional twin boom configuration 26 bhp piston engine.
The integral wing-boom-tail unit was made of Glass Fibre Reinforced Plastic (GFRP) material whereas the fuselage is a combination of aluminium and GFRP; the aircraft has an endurance of 90 minutes while carrying payload of 20 kg (44 lb) and can achieve a speed of 180 km/h (110 mph) in flight.
[1][2][3][4] This programme enabled ADE to cut teeth on the intricacies of UAV design development and deployment.