DRDO to Transform Abhyas HEAT into Kamikaze Drone and Loitering Munition for Manned-Unmanned Teaming Operations

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to significantly expand the capabilities of its Abhyas High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT), transforming it from a simple target drone into a versatile weapon system for the modern battlefield.

Initially designed to simulate enemy aircraft for missile testing, the Abhyas boasts a range of 100 km, can fly at speeds up to 0.5 Mach, and offers 45 minutes of endurance. The DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) is now working on adapting the Abhyas platform for kamikaze drone and loitering munition roles, with potential applications in Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) operations.

One key development is the potential conversion of the Abhyas into a kamikaze drone. Equipped with a warhead, it could be deployed for one-way missions, striking enemy positions or armored vehicles. This adaptation would offer India a cost-effective suicide drone capability, enabling swarm tactics or precision strikes on high-value targets.

The Abhyas' range and endurance also make it well-suited for a loitering munition role. In this capacity, the drone could provide real-time intelligence over contested areas before attacking its target when needed. Loitering munitions have proven their effectiveness in modern warfare due to their ability to hover and strike opportunistically.

Furthermore, the ADE is exploring the integration of Abhyas into Manned-Unmanned Teaming operations. This concept involves manned aircraft working in coordination with unmanned drones like Abhyas for synchronized strikes, reconnaissance, or the suppression of enemy air defenses. MUM-T strategies are gaining traction globally as militaries seek to enhance the effectiveness of manned aircraft through the use of unmanned systems, particularly in high-risk scenarios.

The ability of Abhyas to be adapted to multiple roles, along with its relatively low cost, makes it an appealing prospect for the Indian military. This versatility could enhance India's military capabilities, providing new and innovative ways to respond to emerging threats.

 

[NSR]

It would be great idea but it is way too expensive.
Need to find a low cost option to attack thousands of chinese tanks, MBRLs, Howitzers, etc placed in Aksai-Hind.

 

[Shanker]

In what way, this drone better than the existing indigenous products available already from the private players. I hope DRDO wouldn't compete with them!

 

[Sandeep]

To develop this expendable engine/drone into different types and variants is a good idea as we are using whatever technology we have already developed.

It would be better to partner with a private indigenous company who can speed up the development and technology upgrade as our current Abhyas engine thrust levels are far too slow. We need more faster engines to ensure that our own SAM can chase down the threat and destroy it but if our SAM rockets are too slow then we can’t intercept a potential threat.