BANGALORE: Lt Col V S Thapa, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) external test pilot, hailing from Dehra Dun, will command this year’s Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Republic Day parade contingent in New Delhi. Thapa is presently posted on a special assignment to Bangalore-based Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) — which is also the abode of home-grown UAVs, including Nishant and Rustom. Speaking to Express from Delhi, Thapa said that it was a very esteemed occasion for him to command the unit. “It is a lifetime opportunity and I am working hard to make it a success. The rehearsals have been good and we have fine-tuned everything before the big day,” the 44-year-old Thapa said. Thapa hit the headlines after conventionally flying Rustom-1 UAV for the first time in October 2010, and so far has piloted (externally) nine flights of Rustom-1. An officer from the Regiment of Artillery of the Indian Army, Thapa is certified as an external pilot from Israeli Aerospace Industries, Malat, Israel. He is part of Army’s UAV team since 2000 and has handled Searcher Mk-I Alpha and Searcher Mk-II UAVs. DRDO sources tell Express that Thapa was selected to lead the R-Day contingent after a vigorous […]
UAV test pilot to command Republic Day parade contingent.
UAV test pilot to command Republic Day parade contingent.
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