Following India's recent inclusion as an observer in the European Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (MALE RPAS) program, commonly known as the Eurodrone project, Airbus, the European aerospace giant, has signaled its interest in collaborating with India on a new "Wingman" drone program.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the capabilities of existing fighter jet fleets with advanced, uncrewed systems.
The Airbus Wingman concept envisions a fighter-like, uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to work in conjunction with manned combat aircraft, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon. Crucially, the Wingman would be directly controlled by a pilot in a manned aircraft, allowing for seamless tactical coordination.
This "loyal wingman" concept is designed to take on high-risk missions, such as suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) or electronic warfare, thereby minimizing the danger to human pilots and their expensive aircraft. The Wingman will be equipped to carry weapons and other payloads, effectively increasing the firepower of a manned aircraft formation.
The introduction of these advanced, uncrewed capabilities is intended to significantly boost the effectiveness of existing manned aircraft, and to act as a bridge towards the future development of integrated teams composed of both crewed and uncrewed combat platforms.
Airbus sees India as a key potential partner due to the country's expanding defense industry and its capacity for both technological contribution and large-scale manufacturing.
India's participation could lead to substantial orders, providing the necessary volume to make the Wingman program economically feasible. This potential collaboration also aligns with India's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces.
However, Airbus is not alone in pursuing this market. Within India, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing two distinct "loyal wingman" programs, aiming to provide advanced capabilities to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Furthermore, NewSpace Research & Technologies, a private Indian aerospace company, is also developing its own "loyal wingman" system and is actively seeking IAF support. This demonstrates a growing indigenous capability in this area.
To secure Indian participation, Airbus may need to offer attractive terms, potentially including substantial technology transfer, co-development arrangements, and/or local manufacturing agreements.
These incentives would be in line with India's "Make in India" initiative, which prioritizes domestic defense production and technological self-reliance. The competitive nature will enhance india's defence sector.
