CATS Warrior UCAV Nears 2026 Debut

• TATA Elxsi has been chosen to design and set up assembly jigs for the UCAV prototype
• British aerospace company Rolls-Royce has shown interest in working with HAL
• HAL successfully tested the preliminary engine for the UCAV

India is making strong progress with its Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior, an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) program, which is set to have its first flight in 2026. This progress comes after several technological and structural advancements.

TATA Elxsi has been chosen to design and set up assembly jigs for the UCAV prototypes after successfully delivering the system's demonstrator. These jigs are important for building the frames needed for the next stage of prototype development.

To improve data-linking and teamwork between manned and unmanned systems (MUM-T), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is converting a HAL Kiran jet trainer into an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) test platform. This modified Kiran will help test communications and coordination by simulating the missions of the actual CATS Warrior drones.

HAL is working on changing the Kiran's cockpit, which was originally for an instructor, into a space for advanced avionics and remote-control systems that will be used in future UCAVs.

The first flight of the modified Kiran is expected in early 2026, probably in the first quarter. In the beginning stages of testing, a human pilot will fly the aircraft to ensure it works safely. Later, control will switch to a remote operator on the ground, simulating real-time UCAV operations in combat-like scenarios. These tests are essential to check how well the autonomous systems perform and to ensure they work smoothly with manned aircraft.

On January 11, HAL successfully tested the preliminary engine for the UCAV at its facility in Bangalore. This test used a low-powered engine, but it lays the groundwork for developing a more advanced propulsion system. HAL is talking with foreign manufacturers to help create a small engine specifically for the CATS Warrior drones.

British aerospace company Rolls-Royce has shown interest in working with HAL on this project, which could lead to international cooperation to enhance India's UCAV capabilities.