Maharatna defence PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL)’s futuristic Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior project has a novel technology development at its core – a single fighter pilot commanding two armed drones in a combat zone.
The project aims to significantly enhance India’s air combat capabilities by teaming of manned “mothership” aircraft with two unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), a concept actively being developed by only a handful of nations, including the US, Russia, China, the UK and Australia.
To facilitate testing, HAL has selected a Kiran jet trainer aircraft to be “cannibalised” and converted into an Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV). This testbed will be crucial for conducting data-linking trials, ensuring seamless coordination with manned aircraft.
The second high-positioned cockpit of the Kiran, originally for a trainer pilot, is being equipped with complex systems that will eventually empower the two UCAVs.
CATS Warrior
The CATS Warrior concept envisions a manned mothership, likely a Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), taking off simultaneously with two next-generation UCAVs from different locations.
Each UCAV is designed to weigh three tonnes and carry 100-150 pounds of bombs. The pilot of the LCA will maintain full control over the two UCAVs from start to finish, significantly increasing operational reach, lethality and firepower in contested environments.
This approach gains particular significance in light of the recent conflicts, such as those between Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas, which have amply demonstrated the effectiveness of drones in modern warfare.
HAL sources indicate that the first flight of the specially-designed Kiran testbed is anticipated in early next year, likely within the first quarter.
Prior to this, scientists and engineers involved in the project will dedicate approximately a year to refining the crucial data link, which is fundamental to ensuring seamless and effective communication among the trio in a flying formation.
The development and manufacturing of CATS Warrior are a collaborative effort under a public-private partnership involving HAL, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and NewSpace Research & Technologies (NRT).
Multiple testing
During multiple testing phases, a “pilot in loop” (a pilot on the ground) will remotely fly the altered Kiran. While a human pilot will initially fly the testbed Kiran, control will subsequently be handed over to the ground-based “pilot in loop” to maneuver and execute all functions expected of the CATS Warrior in a combat scenario.
Concurrently, the development of the UCAVs themselves is progressing.
A significant milestone was achieved on January 11, when the ground test of the UCAV’s engine was successfully completed at HAL’s Bengaluru facility.
Although the initial engine used for testing was of low power, HAL intends to co-develop the final engine.
Rolls-Royce, a prominent foreign original equipment manufacturer (OEM), has expressed interest in partnering with HAL for the co-development of a small engine suitable for these combat drones.
The CATS Warrior project is expected to generate significant interest from both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. The autonomous combat drone is being designed with the versatile capability of taking off and landing on both land and from an aircraft carrier at sea.