India's HAL Completes First Flight of Unmanned Kiran Aircraft in CATS Program
In a significant advancement for India's defense aviation sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved a milestone with the first successful flight of the Unmanned Kiran aircraft. This development is a critical step forward in the Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) program. The inaugural test flight was conducted in January 2025 at HAL's Bengaluru facility.
Known as the Optionally Manned Combat Aircraft (OMCA), this innovative platform showcases HAL's strategy of converting older trainer jets into sophisticated unmanned combat systems. Derived from the Indian Air Force's Kiran Mk-II jet trainer, the OMCA project revitalizes the country's longstanding training fleet by integrating autonomous and remote-control technologies for contemporary combat scenarios.
The Unmanned Kiran is engineered to function as a decoy, capable of mimicking radar signatures and distracting enemy air defenses. It is versatile enough to operate in either autonomous or ground-controlled modes, supporting a range of missions from electronic warfare and reconnaissance to limited strike operations.
When in autonomous mode, the aircraft can execute pre-programmed missions using its onboard artificial intelligence. Alternatively, in ground-controlled mode, it allows operators to steer the aircraft in real-time, providing greater tactical flexibility during combat situations.
This project highlights India's increasing emphasis on optimizing resources, fostering indigenous innovation, and enhancing combat versatility. By transforming existing Kiran Mk-II airframes into unmanned versions, HAL has developed a cost-effective force multiplier for the Indian Air Force.
The Unmanned Kiran is set to become an integral part of HAL's CATS ecosystem, which also includes the CATS Warrior loyal wingman, CATS Hunter missile drone, and other integrated combat platforms. These systems are designed to work in tandem with frontline fighters like the Tejas Mk-1A and Rafale.
HAL intends to present the OMCA demonstrator at Aero India 2025, showcasing India's growing capabilities in unmanned aerial warfare. The successful maiden flight signifies an important step in India's progress toward a networked and self-sufficient air combat system.
