The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) are set to commence the construction of a full-scale model of the Ghatak stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV).
This significant advancement comes after the Indian government allocated funding for both the Ghatak and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programs, marking a crucial step in India's pursuit of indigenous stealth aircraft technology.
The Ghatak is envisioned as a 12-ton, stealthy UCAV designed for high-threat environments. Its primary roles include deep penetration strikes, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions in contested airspace, where traditional manned aircraft might be vulnerable.
A key feature of the Ghatak UCAV is its Internal Weapons Bay (IWB), enabling it to carry a 1.5-ton payload while maintaining a low radar cross-section (RCS). This capability makes it ideal for precision strikes against high-value targets behind enemy lines, leveraging its stealth technology to evade sophisticated air defence systems.
The Ghatak and AMCA programs are closely intertwined. Initially, both received over ₹400 crores for design and development. With the AMCA program recently receiving clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and a subsequent infusion of ₹15,000 crores, the Ghatak program is also set to benefit. A portion of this funding will be allocated to fabricate the full-scale 12-ton UCAV.
Both programs are pivotal to India's future combat aviation strategy. The AMCA represents a fifth-generation fighter, while the Ghatak UCAV provides unmanned combat capabilities. Their synergy extends beyond funding, with both expected to share critical technologies like stealth, avionics, and propulsion systems.
The Ghatak UCAV will be powered by a 46kN Dry Kaveri engine, a derivative of the Kaveri engine initially developed for manned fighters. This "dry" version, without an afterburner, is optimized for unmanned platforms where fuel efficiency and a lower infrared signature are prioritized over raw speed. This engine will provide the Ghatak with the necessary thrust-to-weight ratio for subsonic missions and enhance its combat endurance, making it a valuable asset for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and deep-strike missions.
The Ghatak UCAV is also expected to feature Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capabilities, allowing it to operate alongside manned fighters like the AMCA or Su-30MKI. In this mode, the UCAV can act as a "wingman," scouting ahead, drawing enemy fire, or engaging targets while manned aircraft remain at a safe distance.
While comparable in range and size to the LCA Tejas Mk1A, the Ghatak will have larger wings and a slower cruising speed, a consequence of its stealth design and focus on endurance over speed. With its 1.5-ton payload capacity and low observable profile, it is well-suited for long-range precision strikes. Based on these parameters, the Ghatak is estimated to have a combat endurance of 5 to 8 hours, depending on the mission profile and payload.
