India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing a new air-launched cruise missile, the CATS Hunter, as a key element of the country's Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) program. This initiative follows the introduction of the CATS Warrior Loyal Wingman, an unmanned aircraft designed to operate alongside crewed fighter jets.
The Hunter missile is inspired by the proven SCALP air-launched cruise missile (ALCM), which has seen combat use, notably in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
The SCALP EG, known in British service as Storm Shadow, is a long-range, air-launched, stand-off attack missile manufactured by MBDA. Its operational success has been demonstrated, but its integration has primarily been limited to Rafale fighter aircraft.
The CATS Hunter project aims to provide the Indian Air Force (IAF) with a similar capability that can be deployed from a wider range of fighter platforms within its fleet.
A crucial component of the CATS Hunter will be its propulsion system, featuring the indigenously developed HAL PTAE-7 engine. This engine is essential for achieving the missile's intended range and performance.
The PTAE-7 is a small turbojet engine originally developed in the 1980s for target drones and has seen use in other Indian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programs.
The CATS Hunter expected to have a range of approximately 300 kilometers and will travel at subsonic speeds. This balances the need for a stealthy approach with the requirement for a large operational area.
Stealth technology is a primary design consideration for the CATS Hunter. The missile will feature a low-observable design, significantly reducing its Radar Cross Section (RCS). This makes it more difficult for enemy radar systems to track.
To improve its chances of reaching its target, the CATS Hunter will also be capable of sea-skimming flight. This involves flying at extremely low altitudes over water bodies, allowing the missile to avoid early radar detection and thereby increasing the likelihood of a successful strike.
Sea-skimming is a common tactic for anti-ship missiles and cruise missiles to evade radar horizons and ship-based defenses.
HAL anticipates unveiling a prototype of the CATS Hunter ALCM in 2026. Following the unveiling, the missile will undergo a comprehensive series of flight tests to validate its performance and capabilities.
