India is fast becoming a global powerhouse in indigenous defence technologies, and nothing symbolises this rise more dramatically than the Ghatak UCAV. Designed to change the very nature of air warfare, this stealthy unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) promises to deliver unmatched lethality, autonomy, and survivability for the Indian Air Force. As of 20th June 2025, all test flights of its SWiFT demonstrator have been completed, and DRDO is now in the final phase of assembling the full-scale prototype.
From high-end stealth design to indigenous propulsion and AI-based target engagement, Ghatak is more than a drone – it’s a symbol of India’s strategic independence.
Let’s dive deep into the Ghatak UCAV and explore what makes it one of the most anticipated combat drones in the world.
What is Ghatak UCAV?
The Ghatak UCAV (also called AURA – Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft) is a jet-powered, stealth-based unmanned combat aerial vehicle under development by DRDO and ADE for the Indian Air Force.
- The word “Ghatak” translates to “Lethal” in Hindi, highlighting its core purpose.
- It is designed to carry out deep-strike missions in contested airspace without risking human pilots.
- The UCAV will feature full autonomy, enabling it to perform reconnaissance, surveillance, and attack missions with minimal human intervention.
Ghatak UCAV First Flight and Development Timeline
The developmental journey of the Ghatak UCAV began with its scaled demonstrator, SWiFT, which completed multiple successful autonomous test flights between 2022 and 2023.
- The first full-scale prototype of Ghatak is expected to take flight between 2025 and 2026.
- Final operational induction into the Indian Air Force is anticipated by the early 2030s.
These early milestones prove that India is serious about achieving Aatmanirbhar Bharat in cutting-edge combat systems.
Ghatak UCAV Design and Stealth Features
The most striking aspect of the Ghatak is its flying-wing design – a configuration similar to the American B-2 Spirit.
Key Design Elements:
- Flying-wing architecture: Reduces radar cross-section (RCS) for stealth.
- Internal weapons bay: Maintains a stealth profile while carrying munitions.
- Advanced composite materials: For heat signature reduction.
- No vertical stabilisers: Helps avoid radar detection.
This stealth-centric design makes Ghatak ideal for high-risk operations where radar evasion is critical.
Ghatak Drone Specifications
Dry Kaveri Engine Testing Update – June 2025
As of 20th June 2025, the Dry Kaveri engine has completed its high-altitude tests in Russia. In December 2024, GTRE confirmed that the engine had been cleared for in-flight testing. This milestone followed a rigorous testing schedule, including simulated high-altitude conditions, thermal endurance trials, and stress validation. The successful clearance marks a critical achievement in India’s quest for self-reliance in combat aviation propulsion systems.
Here are the known and estimated technical specifications based on open-source intelligence and DRDO data:
- Type: Jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle
- Configuration: Flying wing, stealth profile
- Engine: Dry Kaveri turbofan engine (52kN thrust class)
- Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW): ~13 tonnes
- Service Ceiling: Approx. 30,000–40,000 feet
- Endurance: Estimated 1,000+ km radius with internal fuel
- Speed: Subsonic, Mach 0.8 estimated
Ghatak UCAV Payload Capabilities
A key factor in Ghatak’s battlefield dominance is its 1.5-tonne internal payload capacity.
Likely Weapon Configurations:
- Astra Mk-1 and Mk-2 air-to-air missiles
- Precision Guided Munitions (PGMs)
- Smart bombs and loitering munitions
This allows the UCAV to perform both air superiority and strike missions – a rare combination in unmanned platforms.
Ghatak UCAV Size and Weight
- Length: Estimated 9 to 11 metres
- Wingspan: Approximately 15 metres
- Weight: Empty weight around 5 tonnes, with 13 tonnes MTOW
This size allows it to carry high fuel loads, avionics, and weapons while remaining manoeuvrable and stealthy.
Ghatak UCAV Price and Cost Considerations
While DRDO hasn’t officially disclosed Ghatak’s unit cost, defence analysts estimate:
- Estimated cost per unit: INR 600 – 750 crore, depending on final configurations
Given its strategic value, indigenous components, and reduced reliance on foreign tech, this is a cost-effective alternative to imported UCAVs.
Advanced Sensors and AI Capabilities
Ghatak will be outfitted with cutting-edge Indian-made sensors:
- Uttam AESA radar for fire control and multi-target tracking
- EO/IR sensor suite for passive targeting
- AI-based target recognition and decision-making
- Secure datalinks for real-time manned-unmanned coordination
These systems allow Ghatak to function independently or as part of a networked combat environment.
Integration with AMCA and CATS Ecosystem
Ghatak is a key pillar in the Indian Air Force’s vision for future air combat:
- Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) with AMCA, Su-30MKI, and Tejas Mk2
- Operates with CATS Warrior, ALFA-S swarm drones, and Netra AEW&C
- Enables force multiplication in a high-threat airspace
This integration makes Ghatak a game-changer in India’s air warfare doctrine.
How Ghatak UCAV Fits into India’s 6th-Generation Warfare Doctrine
The Ghatak UCAV is not just a standalone combat drone—it’s an integral part of India’s preparations for 6th-generation warfare, which will be characterised by stealth, AI, electronic dominance, and manned-unmanned teaming.
- Its stealth design allows penetration of hostile radar networks.
- AI capabilities make it suitable for autonomous target identification and engagement.
- Ghatak can act as an electronic warfare decoy, disrupting enemy air defences while coordinating with AMCA.
- Seamless datalink integration enables real-time information sharing across platforms.
This level of interoperability and autonomy places Ghatak among the most advanced unmanned assets being developed globally.
Future Roadmap and Potential Exports
Looking ahead, DRDO plans to continue iterative upgrades to Ghatak based on flight test data:
- Full-scale flight trials: 2025–2026
- Flight test campaign: 2027–2029
- IAF induction: 2030–2032
- Possible naval variant for INS Vikrant and INS Vishal under evaluation
In addition, several friendly nations in Asia and Africa have already shown interest in acquiring India’s indigenous UCAVs, opening the door to future defence exports.
Ghatak UCAV vs Global UCAVs
The 2 Big Unknowns: What We Still Don’t Know About Ghatak UCAV
Despite Ghatak’s promise, two critical uncertainties remain:
1. Engine Performance at Scale
While the dry Kaveri engine has passed high-altitude trials, it’s yet to be tested under full-scale combat loads. Concerns around thrust, heat, and endurance persist.
2. Combat Autonomy Under Jamming
Ghatak’s AI promises autonomy, but its performance in high-threat zones—especially under GPS jamming or EW interference—remains unverified.
These unknowns don’t diminish Ghatak’s potential but highlight key areas to watch as it transitions from prototype to production.
While still in development, Ghatak holds its own when compared to global rivals:
- Bayraktar Kizilelma (Turkey): Ghatak offers better stealth and autonomy
- XQ-58 Valkyrie (USA): Ghatak is heavier with more strike capacity
- nEUROn (France): Ghatak is cost-effective and indigenously scalable
Why Ghatak UCAV Matters for India
India has long relied on foreign systems for strategic strikes. Ghatak changes that narrative:
- Reduces dependency on imported platforms like Predator drones
- Supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat and defence exports
- Creates a new indigenous combat doctrine
- Prepares the IAF for 6th-generation warfare
Conclusion: India’s Flight into the Future
The Ghatak UCAV isn’t just a drone – it’s India’s leap into autonomous combat. Combining stealth, firepower, AI, and networked warfare, it represents the next frontier of Indian air power. As its first full-scale flight nears, all eyes are on how Ghatak will reshape the dynamics of modern warfare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the range of the Ghatak UCAV?
Ghatak is expected to have a combat radius of over 1,000 km, allowing deep penetration into enemy territory without refuelling.
2. When will Ghatak UCAV enter service?
The full-scale prototype is expected to fly by 2026, with operational induction into the IAF by 2030–2032.
3. Is Ghatak better than Bayraktar Kizilelma?
Ghatak offers superior stealth and autonomy. While Kizilelma is closer to production, Ghatak is designed for deeper strike and advanced networking within a national defence ecosystem.
4. Can Ghatak operate autonomously?
Yes. Ghatak is equipped with AI-driven mission computers and sensors, enabling it to carry out entire missions without human intervention.
Stay tuned to DefenceNewsIndia for more updates on India’s emerging UCAV and fighter programmes.