Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is forging ahead with its unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) ambitions, expanding beyond its initial CATS Warrior "loyal wingman" concept. The state-owned aerospace giant is now developing the CATS Warrior II, a significantly larger UCAV designed for high-altitude, long-endurance combat missions.
This near 5-ton behemoth will be a game-changer, boasting a substantial weapons payload of 400-500 kg. It's expected to be powered by the domestically produced Hindustan Turbo Fan Engine (HTFE-25), granting it an impressive endurance of over 10 hours and a service cruise altitude near 35,000 ft.
While currently in the design phase, the CATS Warrior II's development timeline is tied to the HTFE-25 engine's certification, anticipated by 2027. To potentially expedite the process, HAL is exploring the interim use of the Russian AL-55I engine.
This UCAV represents a major advancement in India's indigenous drone capabilities. Positioned below the larger Ghatak UCAV program, the CATS Warrior II bridges the gap between smaller tactical drones and heavy, strategic UCAVs.
It promises to bolster India's air combat capabilities with its extended range, high payload capacity, and potential integration with homegrown engines, reinforcing the nation's self-reliance in defence technology.
