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Super stoked to see HAL reveal the Loyal Wingman - Warrior, which is a part of the CATS(Combat Air Teaming System).
Still coming to terms with this exciting news. Didn't anticipate to see it this early.
A brief thread on Loyal Wingman
: @zone5aviation https://twitter.com/StratLogan/status/1356250242996260864
Still coming to terms with this exciting news. Didn't anticipate to see it this early.
A brief thread on Loyal Wingman
: @zone5aviation https://twitter.com/StratLogan/status/1356250242996260864
Loyal Wingman is a stealth UCAV that can operate autonomously using AI for various missions flying alongside a fighter jet. Although a few details are yet to emerge, it can also be controlled by the pilot in the parent jet.
As per the update in 2019
It is expected to be powered by an indigenously developed HAL PTAE 7 turbojet engine – which is also powering the Lakshya target UAV – rated 4.22 kN (948 lb) that will reportedly enable the air vehicle to attain a cruise speed of Mach 0.7.
It is expected to be powered by an indigenously developed HAL PTAE 7 turbojet engine – which is also powering the Lakshya target UAV – rated 4.22 kN (948 lb) that will reportedly enable the air vehicle to attain a cruise speed of Mach 0.7.
HAL is working with an Indian start-up, New Space on this project, although Livefist says, it is currently in development with another private company.
Source - https://www.livefistdefence.com/indias-combat-teaming-drones-emerge-at-aeroindia-2021/
Source - https://www.livefistdefence.com/indias-combat-teaming-drones-emerge-at-aeroindia-2021/
What makes it special is the fact that it has a radar and a host of sensors, that can customised as per mission, data from which can be sent to the parent fighter (maybe even ground control) via a 2-way data link.
It can scout n paint targets w/o parent fighter having to switch on its own radar, a decisive edge in any battle space. It is seen carrying an SAAW in the internal weapons bay. My guess is that it can carry 2 x SAAWs. Targets - enemy airfields, SAM sites, Radar installations etc.
Moreover,it can sacrifice itself in defense of the fighter. The expendable nature is what increases its offensive envelope, reducing he risk of casualities. Costing at around $5mn (or less), it is at a fraction of cost of actual fighter. Cost effective, silent and capable!
In future it can even carry air-air missiles and other weaponry. The wingman can even act as the mother ship guiding another set of swarm drones to their respective targets.
It can very well become the first choice in offensive standoff missions against heavily guarded enemy AD networks.
Will be interesting to see further if it has interchangeable nose as per different requirements, a feature that Boeing's ATS has. Will update the thread as further updates emerge.
(Pics in thread for representation purpose only)
(Pics in thread for representation purpose only)
Slight correction - In its current design, the Warrior is not an all out stealth platform per say, but a 'low obervable' UCAV. Its detection will still be quite challenging for the current systems. Again, it can carry its own set of EW suite to evade detection.
Simulator video of the CATS Warrior wingman.
It is twin engined.
It is twin engined.
