Design and Performance Evaluation of an FPV Tactical Loiter Munition Drone for Tropical Mountainous Operations in Papua

Abstract

This research aims to design and analyze an FPV Tactical Loiter Munitions (FPV-TLM) drone as a tactical operational support platform for the Indonesian Army (TNI AD) in the Papua region. The FPV-TLM technology serves a dual function as both a reconnaissance system and a precision-strike asset capable of operating in extreme environments. The study employs a descriptive-qualitative approach combined with limited-scale experimental testing to evaluate control-system stability, energy efficiency, and surveillance effectiveness in tropical and mountainous terrain. The test results indicate that the adaptive PID-based control system maintained hover stability up to 93% under wind speeds of 10-14 m/s. The Kevlar-Nylon variant was identified as the most optimal configuration, achieving an average loiter duration of 35.2 minutes and an energy efficiency of 0.78 Wh/min. Strategically, the use of FPV-TLM enhances surveillance operational effectiveness by 47% compared to conventional ground patrols and supports national defense self-reliance through increased domestic content (TKDN) and integration of local research.