Ghatak UCAV Explained: Indian Homegrown Stealth Combat Drone

India Progresses on Ghatak UCAV Programme.

Under the Ghatak UCAV Programme, India will upgrade its air combat capabilities by induction of stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicles. The Indian Air Force received the approval to procure remotely piloted strike aircrafts to replace the old models, clearing the way to four squadrons of the state-of-the-art combat drones. This step benefits India to modernize its defence long-term objectives as per Vision 2047.

Overview and Development of the programmes.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation is working on the Ghatak UCAV, which was previously called AURA. It is a significant move to become self-sufficient in cutting-edge defence technologies. This system will be used to execute high risk combat missions without putting human pilots at risk, and thus it will be a major resource in warfare in the future.

Essential Characteristics and Technical Design.

The Ghatak is a jet-powered, 13-tonne class unmanned aircraft whose flying-wing is tailless and therefore is more stealthy because it reduces radar visibility. It will be constructed mostly with carbon-fibre composites. The UCAV will be propelled with the local Kaveri Engine and will have an internal carrying capacity of approximately 1.5 tonnes of weapons, which will ensure minimal detection during the operations.

Strategic Role in Modern Warfare.

The UCAV is intended to carry out deep strike operations as well as countering enemy air defences (SEAD). It can work in co-ordination with manned planes such as the LCA Tejas. It is a powerful force multiplier because of its capability to operate in a contested airspace with limited detection. India is moving towards the autonomous and network-centric warfare as the planned induction of 60-80 drones indicates.

Exam-Focused Points

• Ghatak = Stealth UCAV made by DRDO.
• Earlier name: AURA
• Design: Low radar signature, flying-wing.
• Engine: Kaveri (indigenous)
• Role: Deep strike & SEAD operations

Increase Indigenous Defence Capability.

The Ghatak programme is an indication of the increased focus that India has developed in terms of local defence production. It enhances technological independence and aerospace engineering innovation. The project makes India one of the few nations in the world that create highly-developed systems of stealth drones.