CATS Warrior is a stealthy, jet-powered “loyal wingman” unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) being developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as the core combat-drone element of India’s Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) family, designed to operate alongside manned fighters such as the Tejas, Su-30MKI, AMCA, TEDBF and Jaguar.[1]
CATS Warrior is a roughly 2.2-tonne-class UCAV with a maximum take-off weight cited at around 1,300 kg in some configurations, a range of approximately 800 km, a top speed near 850 km/h, and an internal/underwing payload capacity of about 250 kg. It incorporates stealth shaping intended to reduce its radar signature against enemy air-defence systems, and is designed to operate semi-autonomously or under remote guidance as a “loyal wingman” — extending the sensor reach, weapons capacity and risk envelope of the manned fighter it accompanies while absorbing threat exposure in high-risk airspace.[1][2]
HAL completed a key ground/engine test milestone for the Warrior programme in early 2025, and a flying prototype reveal was anticipated in 2026 with first flight expected the following year. The Indian Air Force has signalled a potential requirement of up to 100 CATS Warrior units, reflecting the scale of ambition for manned-unmanned teaming in future IAF force structure.[3][1]
| Type | Stealth “loyal wingman” unmanned combat aerial vehicle |
| Developer | Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) |
| Class | ~2.2 tonnes |
| Range | ~800 km |
| Speed | Up to ~850 km/h |
| Payload | ~250 kg (internal/underwing) |
| Teaming platforms | Tejas, Su-30MKI, AMCA, TEDBF, Jaguar |
| Projected IAF requirement | Up to 100 units |
| Status (2026) | Ground/engine testing complete; prototype reveal expected 2026, first flight 2027 |