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India is significantly expanding its unmanned combat capabilities, moving beyond the development of a single platform to create an extensive lineage of stealth drones.
This strategic shift is powered by breakthroughs in indigenous propulsion systems, specifically the Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE) and technologies from the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project.
The Foundation: The 13-Ton Ghatak UCAV
The primary focus of India’s current efforts is the Ghatak, a 13-ton Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV).Comparable in size and performance to the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet, the Ghatak is designed for high-risk, deep-strike missions within sophisticated enemy air defences.
The project is currently reaching a critical turning point as the Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE) undergoes its final certification process.
This "dry" engine variant—operating without an afterburner to maintain a lower infrared signature—is expected to receive formal clearance by the end of 2026.
Once certified, the proposal will be presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to initiate the construction of a full-scale prototype.
Proven Technology and Future Ambitions
The design of the Ghatak has already been de-risked through the SWiFT (Stealth Wing Flying Testbed) programme.This smaller technology demonstrator successfully validated several advanced features, including:
- Tailless flying-wing configuration for reduced radar visibility.
- Internal weapon bays to maintain a stealthy profile.
- Autonomous flight systems, including self-governing take-off and landing capabilities.
This future platform is intended to serve as a "Loyal Wingman," flying alongside manned fighter jets like the AMCA to provide additional sensor range and strike power.
Advanced Propulsion and Payload
Unlike the baseline Ghatak, the proposed heavy UCAV will likely utilise the more powerful engine currently being developed for the AMCA Mk2.This engine is expected to provide approximately 73 kN of dry thrust, offering the drone greater speed and endurance.
Recent open-source reports indicate that the Defence Procurement Board (DPB) recommended the acquisition of 60 Ghatak UCAVs in early March 2026.
This larger family of drones is expected to feature:
- Enhanced Payload: Carrying nearly one tonne more internal ordnance than the original Ghatak.
- Artificial Intelligence: Shifting from remote mission management to an AI-driven "electronic pilot" capable of independent decision-making.
Strategic Roadmap
The Indian defence establishment is following a phased approach.While the immediate goal is to fly the 13-ton Ghatak by the late 2020s, the development of the heavier, AMCA-class drone is projected to gain momentum around 2029–2030.
This deliberate progression ensures that each stage of technology—from the small SWiFT demonstrator to the massive strike UCAVs—is thoroughly matured before entering service.
