The Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior, an advanced unmanned wingman drone developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), took centre stage at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. Unveiled as a full-scale prototype, the CATS Warrior is a next-generation Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) designed to support Indian fighter pilots. Its highly anticipated maiden flight is scheduled for later this year.
Highlighting the significance of the CATS Warrior program, HAL Chairman and Managing Director D.K. Sunil emphasized during a media interaction on February 11 that the project exemplifies HAL’s technical expertise and commitment to enhancing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat capabilities. “This is a next-generation product that reinforces our focus on cutting-edge solutions,” he stated.
Following a recent full-scale demonstrator’s successful engine ground run, the CATS Warrior is positioned as a low-observable UCAV engineered for versatility. It is designed to execute key combat roles, including reconnaissance, enemy fire absorption, and precision strikes on designated targets. Operated by a mothership aircraft, the Warrior boasts advanced capabilities that enable it to autonomously execute missions and return to base. Designed to complement manned fighter jets like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, it functions as a “loyal wingman,” significantly enhancing operational effectiveness.
Developed at HAL’s Aircraft Research and Design Centre, the CATS Warrior is a pivotal component of the broader CATS program. The drone features formidable weaponry, including two new-generation short- or beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles mounted externally and two DRDO Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons (SAAW) housed internally. It can penetrate enemy airspace up to 700 km, making it a game-changer in aerial warfare. Its stealth capabilities further reduce detectability by enemy radars and air defence systems, positioning it among the world’s most advanced UCAVs alongside systems from the U.S., Russia, and leading European nations.
The development of the CATS Warrior comes at a crucial time, as the Indian Air Force faces a shortfall in active fighter squadrons—currently at 31 against the sanctioned 42—amidst an ageing fleet and delayed inductions. The CATS program could play a vital role in stabilizing the IAF’s combat strength, serving as a force multiplier until next-generation fighter jets such as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Tejas Mk-II become operational in the next decade.
The primary objective of the CATS program is to develop advanced aerial platforms capable of high-altitude surveillance and autonomous deep-penetration precision strikes from standoff distances while minimizing pilot risk. To achieve this, HAL’s CATS initiative comprises multiple platforms, each designed for specific roles in modern air combat operations.
The introduction of the CATS Warrior marks a significant shift in India’s aerial combat strategy. By integrating autonomous systems, it not only enhances operational efficiency but also prioritizes pilot safety. As the program progresses, the CATS Warrior is expected to play a critical role in modernizing the Indian Air Force, ensuring it remains at the forefront of next-generation warfare.
Ravi Shankar
