In a first of its kind in the world, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing a futuristic high altitude unmanned pseudo satellite namely Combined Air Teaming System (CATS) with a start-up company.
- Once developed the pseudo-satellite will be capable of taking information flying unmanned around 70,000 ft for 2-3 months.
Reason behind this development:
–This project focuses on strengthening India’s military strike capabilities. It’s a team of unmanned aircraft and vehicles with manned jets.
–While manned aircraft will operate within the boundary and the unmanned aircraft will enter the enemy zone to carry out strikes. This tech is on the lines of the United States (US) project of skybrog.
Key Points:
–The system will have mother-ship carrying components and four autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles known as CATS Warrior.
–It can hit the target at a distance of 700 kilometres or can go to 350 kilometres and come back. It can also carry ammunition, missiles if needed.
Recent Related News:
i.On January 13, 2021, as a part of Atmanirbhar programme, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi approved the procurement of 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas at the cost of Rs. 45,696 Crore for Indian Air Force (IAF). LCAs are manufactured by HAL.
ii.(HAL) successfully Test Fired the Indigenous Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW) from the Hawk-i aircraft close to the coast of Odisha. It is the 1st Smart Weapon to be fired from an Indian Hawk-Mk132.
About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL):
Chairman and Managing Director (CMD)– R Madhavan
Headquarter– Bengaluru, India
