In a groundbreaking move, the Indian Navy has awarded Bengaluru-based startup NewSpace Research & Technologies (NRT) a contract to develop its Naval Collaborative Combat Air Vehicle (N-CCAV).
This unmanned aircraft, based on NRT's "Abhimanyu" MUMT (Multi-Mission Unmanned Teaming) concept, will work in tandem with the navy's existing MiG-29K fighters and future Rafale-M aircraft. This marks a significant milestone as the first major deal between the Indian military and a local startup.
The N-CCAV program, facilitated through the Indian Ministry of Defence's (MoD) Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) scheme, aims to leverage cutting-edge private sector research and development.
Launched in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, iDEX seeks to provide the Indian military with access to advanced technologies. NRT was selected from a competitive pool of Indian private sector companies vying for the contract.
The "Abhimanyu" is designed as a lightweight, low-observable platform intended for collaborative missions with the Indian Navy's fighter jets. While it shares similarities with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) "Warrior" CCA, "Abhimanyu" is specifically tailored for naval operations and is expected to be smaller and lighter.
NRT's "Abhimanyu" boasts a modular architecture that allows it to adapt to various roles, including surveillance, electronic warfare, and strike missions. Sources indicate that the N-CCAV is being designed with cost-effectiveness and expendability in mind, emphasizing rapid production capabilities. This approach would enable the Indian Navy to deploy the system in large numbers, supplementing both current and future fighter fleets.
The "Abhimanyu" is envisioned as a networked platform capable of functioning as a sensor, effector, and command-and-control node. This networked approach aims to create a flexible and scalable operational framework that can readily integrate new platforms, technologies, and operational concepts in the future.
An officer familiar with the agreement emphasized that these unmanned platforms are not meant to replace manned fighter jets but to act as force multipliers. "These systems can help the Indian Air Force and Navy address squadron shortages, modernize operations cost-effectively, and strengthen defences against peer adversaries like China," the officer stated.
He further highlighted that prioritizing indigenous programs like "Warrior" and "Abhimanyu" would stimulate AI innovation, enhance air combat capabilities, and allow India to bridge its capability gap while establishing itself as a leader in autonomous military technology.
To illustrate the potential of the "Abhimanyu," a hypothetical scenario involving increased tensions in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) was presented. In this scenario, the "Abhimanyu" is deployed alongside MiG-29Ks from INS Vikrant to counter an approaching enemy carrier strike group. The drones act as a vanguard, utilizing their advanced sensors and electronic warfare capabilities to disrupt enemy reconnaissance efforts and provide early warning. They also carry additional missiles for the manned fighters, increasing their firepower and endurance.
Furthermore, the "Abhimanyu" can be employed in kamikaze-style attacks against high-value targets and participate in coordinated strikes against enemy warships.
The development and deployment of the "Abhimanyu" N-CCAV represent a significant step in India's efforts to modernize its air power capabilities. By leveraging indigenous technology and innovation, India aims to enhance its defence posture and strategic autonomy. The Indian Navy's deal with NRT serves as a test case for future collaborations between the military and the private sector, potentially paving the way for similar programs.
A half-scale replica of the "Abhimanyu" N-CCAV will be showcased at Aero India 2025, where the Indian Navy and NewSpace are expected to formally announce the deal.
