In a transformative step aimed at enhancing India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the procurement of Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) for the Indian Air Force. Chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the DAC granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for this acquisition, which covers four squadrons consisting of 20 aircraft each. This decision notably advances the Ghatak stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) programme, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
This milestone is part of a larger defence package valued at approximately ₹2.38 lakh crore, which includes various high-stakes acquisitions such as the S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system, medium transport aircraft, and upgrades for Su-30 aero-engines. The Ministry of Defence highlighted that the RPSA will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force, enabling it to conduct offensive counter-air operations, coordinated air strikes, and advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, while minimizing risks to manned aircraft in contested environments.
The Ghatak UCAV is designed as an autonomous, jet-powered stealth platform primarily focused on deep-strike missions and suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD/DEAD). The project, which traces its roots back to a feasibility study initiated in 2009 under the Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft programme, received initial funding of ₹2.31 billion for critical technologies. In 2016, a scaled-down model known as the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT) was introduced with a budget of ₹700 million.
The SWiFT demonstrator successfully completed its maiden flight on 1 July 2022, followed by subsequent tests in 2023 that validated crucial capabilities including high-subsonic performance, autonomous takeoff and landing, and advanced stealth features. The Ghatak platform has undergone significant design evolution, transitioning from a tailed variant to a tailless flying-wing configuration that optimizes radar stealth.
Key design specifications for the Ghatak UCAV include a weight class of 13–15 tonnes, a carbon-composite airframe for enhanced stealth, and a flying-wing layout to reduce radar visibility. It is expected to be powered by a variant of the indigenous Kaveri afterburning turbofan engine, with performance specifications indicating an operational ceiling of up to 9,100 metres (30,000 feet) and a combat radius of approximately 500 nautical miles (930 km). The aircraft will feature an internal weapons bay capable of carrying precision-guided munitions and advanced autonomy features that include onboard mission computers and fire-control radars.
The Ghatak is engineered to operate in tandem with manned fighters like the Tejas Mk II and the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), providing a “loyal wingman” capability that allows it to penetrate heavily defended airspace while minimizing risks to pilots. This strategic alignment is part of the Indian Air Force’s Vision 2047 roadmap, which aims for a substantial fleet of UCAVs that will serve both the Air Force and Army.
This DAC approval follows the Defence Procurement Board’s recommendation to advance the acquisition of 60 Ghatak units, marking a swift transition from development to series procurement. Analysts view this development as a strong commitment to achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat, reflecting a preference for home-grown platforms over foreign alternatives. The establishment of a four-squadron force is expected to grant the Indian Air Force a dedicated stealth strike capability, particularly critical in countering advanced threats from regional adversaries.
Future production of the Ghatak is poised to involve public-private partnerships with a focus on high indigenous content in key components such as airframe, avionics, and propulsion systems. Although precise timelines for the induction of these aircraft remain confidential, the programme’s advancement, bolstered by successful testing phases and engine certification accomplishments, positions the Ghatak as a cornerstone in India’s ambitions for a future autonomous deep-strike force.
This landmark decision not only enhances India’s operational preparedness but also illustrates its growing status as a key player in advanced unmanned combat systems on the international stage. Additional updates regarding contract allocations and industrial involvement are expected in the forthcoming months.
