Latest news with #UCAV
India.com
4 days ago
- Business
- India.com
Bad news for Pakistan China, Turkey as India is developing not only stealth fighter jet but 5th generation...
Bad news for Pakistan China, Turkey as India is developing not only stealth fighter jet but 5th generation.... The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is currently testing the Kaveri jet engine in Russia. Defence officials have told news agency ANI that the testing of this jet engine is in its final stages. Plan To Use The Engine In UCAV As per reports, only 25 hours of testing of the engine is left. The engine will be ready after the Russian authorities give it the green signal following all the tests. Officials told ANI that India is planning to use the Kaveri engine in its long-range Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). HAL Is Preparing CATS Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing the Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior. It is a 5th-generation unmanned wingman drone which is designed to work in conjunction with fighter jets. This drone is designed to perform a variety of tasks during combat missions. Will Keep Aircraft Pilots Away From Dangers The Indian Air Force's CATS system is designed to protect its aircraft and pilots by enabling the targeting and neutralisation of enemy air defences. The Mission Will Be Accomplished In Collaboration With AMCA The Combat Air Teaming System will carry out missions in coordination with the indigenously built 5th-generation stealth fighter plane AMCA. These CATS warriors will play a crucial role in eliminating the enemy's radar systems and missile launchers.
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
5 days ago
- First Post
Why Kaveri jet engine's trials in Russia are a big boost for India's defence
The trials of the indigenous Kaveri jet engine are reportedly underway in Russia. Developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it is a low bypass, twin spool turbofan engine. Originally meant for the fighter aircraft Tejas, it has been repurposed to power the long-range Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) read more India is carrying out trials of the indigenous Kaveri jet engine in Russia. Reports on Tuesday (May 27) said that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was conducting the trials of the engine that could be used to power the long-range Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV). Initially planned for the fighter aircraft Tejas, the Kaveri engine will now power Made in India UCAVs. There has also been a renewed interest in the public about the homegrown engines in the wake of Operation Sindoor. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Let's take a closer look. What's Kaveri engine? The Kaveri engine is a low-bypass, twin-spool turbofan engine. Developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the engine has 80 kilonewtons (kN) thrust. The Kaveri project kick-started in the 1980s to power the domestic fighter aircraft Tejas. The engine has a flat-rated design to minimise thrust drop due to high-speed and high-temperature conditions. 'Twin lane full authority digital engine control with an adequate manual backup is a salient design feature of the Kaveri engine,' as per the DRDO. From Tejas to Ghatak The Kaveri engine could not be used for India's Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas due to various challenges, including the engine's inability to reach the required thrust-to-weight ratio. There were also problems in high-temperature metallurgy and afterburner performance and reliability. International sanctions on India after the 1998 nuclear tests also hit the project. After Kaveri failed to power Tejas Mk1, India had to resort to the American-made GE F404 engine for the fighter jet. India also lacked testing facilities for such engines and had to rely on Russia, which led to scheduling delays and restricted flexibility, as per News18. The project appeared to be abandoned by 2014. However, a collaboration with the French firm Safran in 2016 breathed life into the engines again. The Kaveri engine has 80 kilonewtons (kN) thrust. Image Courtesy: DRDO The Kaveri engine has been repurposed for Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles, like the Ghatak stealth drone. As per a EurAsian Times report, the latest Kaveri engines feature advanced materials, aerodynamics, and cooling technologies for enhanced performance. It is likely to generate 48 kN of dry thrust, while DRDO plans to incorporate an afterburner to raise thrust to 73–75 kN if needed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Kaveri core engine – Kabini – has a high-pressure compressor, combustor and high pressure turbine for 'demonstrating hot end parts technology and study the aero-mechanical behaviour of high-pressure spool' of the engine, according to DRDO. It is classified as a fifth-generation engine. Why Kaveri engine's trials matter India 's premier defence research agency is conducting trials of the Kaveri engine in Russia, ANI reported, citing defence officials. The trials will showcase the performance of the engine in real flight conditions, including its reliability, endurance, and integration with aircraft systems, as per Mathrubhumi. About 25 hours of testing remained, with dependency on the slots provided by Russian authorities. On whether the Kaveri engine will power the LCA, the officials told the news agency that it could be used to power an LCA aircraft to see its capabilities. Recently, X users have been calling on the government to allocate more funds and resources for the Kaveri engine, with 'Fund Kaveri Engine' becoming the top trend on X Monday (May 26). This comes against the backdrop of India's tensions with Pakistan post-Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Last December, GTRE announced that the Kaveri engine had been cleared for in-flight testing. The development happened after rigorous testing of the engine, including high-altitude simulations in Russia. The Kaveri engine is a big boost to India's push for self-reliance in defence technology. It will reduce the country's reliance on foreign engine suppliers and support its aerospace ambitions. With inputs from agencies
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
No more decade-long wait: India eyes stealth 5th-gen stealth drone fighter to strike enemy air defences and save pilots' lives
CATS Warrior CATS can detect, track and shoot down aircraft from long distances Features include stealth, AI and coordinated missions Live Events You Might Also Like: #FundKaveriEngine trend gains traction as India sends its indigenous fighter jet engine for testing in Russia Key design and stealth features AMCA will act as mothership to unmanned Warriors Push for indigenous defence technology Kaveri engine's future role Reducing dependence on imports You Might Also Like: India's 5th-gen stealth fighter jet project gets greenlight as AMCA programme enters execution phase Planned use in indigenous combat drones Multiple combat roles and return capability Role in modernising Indian Air Force (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is conducting trials of the indigenous Kaveri jet engine in Russia, with plans to use it in an upcoming Indian long-range Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), defence officials told ANI. The engine is in the final stages of testing, with around 25 hours of trials remaining. These remaining trials depend on the availability of test slots provided by Russian authorities. Officials confirmed the Kaveri engine is being considered for the indigenous UCAV project currently in development. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is developing Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior, a fifth-generation unmanned wingman drone. It is designed to operate alongside manned fighter jets and perform multiple roles during combat missions. The CATS system help air force to target and destroy modern enemy air defences while keeping pilots and expensive aircraft out of danger. The CATS Warrior will work closely with India's upcoming fifth-generation stealth fighter , the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft ( AMCA ), by taking on high-risk missions and carrying out air strikes against radar systems and missile CATS Warrior drone was unveiled at Aero India 2025, while the Kaveri engine is undergoing trials in Russia. Together, they represent India's effort to strengthen its self-reliance in aerial defence systems and reduce dependence on foreign systems can detect, track and shoot down aircraft from long distances. Sending a manned aircraft into such heavily defended areas is risky and expensive. Instead, India plans to use the Warrior drone to fly ahead, strike targets like radar stations and missile batteries, and reduce the exposure of human pilots and advanced CATS Warrior is designed with a low radar signature to avoid detection and is built to survive in enemy's airspace. Its compact size and stealth design make it suitable for missions that require avoiding radar and surface-to-air CATS Warrior features stealth capabilities, internal weapon bays, and advanced avionics. The structure is built using composite materials, and its shape is designed to lower radar visibility. The drone can carry a mix of weapons, including precision-guided bombs, anti-radiation missiles, and electronic warfare systems to jam enemy radar. It also has the ability to fly in groups or 'swarms' to overwhelm defences with coordinated using secure data links and artificial intelligence, the Warrior can operate alongside the AMCA and other platforms in real-time. This networked approach allows it to receive mission updates, share intelligence, and coordinate with both ground control and other includes a single serpentine air intake and twin engines, inspired by drones like the MQ-28 Ghost Bat and XQ-58 Valkyrie, to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce radar cross-section. The drone is equipped with an electro-optic infrared payload, AESA radar, and electronic jamming systems. It can carry two short-range or beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles externally, and two DRDO Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons AMCA, which is still under development, is planned to serve as a command-and-control aircraft for the Warrior drones. Rather than exposing itself to enemy fire, the AMCA will direct multiple drones from a safer interest in the Kaveri engine has increased recently, partly due to social media campaigns urging the government to #FundKaveri. Originally, the engine was developed for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) project, but delays led to the use of American GE-404 engines the GE-404 remains the primary engine for the current LCA variants, officials noted that there are plans to install the Kaveri engine on one LCA aircraft to showcase its is also exploring options to develop a more powerful engine for future aircraft, such as the Mark 2 version of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). According to officials, discussions are ongoing with companies in France, the UK, and the US. A decision is expected in the near push to develop indigenous fighter jet technology aims to reduce reliance on foreign defence imports. Programmes like LCA Mark 1A, LCA Mark 2, and AMCA are key elements of this strategy. By integrating locally developed technologies such as the Kaveri engine, India plans to create self-sustaining defence capabilities for its air Kaveri engine is expected to power the same indigenous UCAV programme in which the CATS Warrior may play a part. The engine project was originally developed for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) but faced delays, leading to the use of imported GE-404 CATS Warrior can be used for scouting, absorbing enemy fire, and attacking targets. It can also return to base after completing its mission, enhancing sustainability. Designed as a 'loyal wingman,' the drone can carry out missions up to 700 kilometres from its CATS Warrior is part of HAL's broader effort to integrate manned and unmanned systems. It is expected to improve mission effectiveness and reduce risks to pilots. The project aims to support the Indian Air Force's future operational capabilities in line with global trends in unmanned warfare.
India Today
27-05-2025
- Business
- India Today
Kaveri engine trials underway in Russia, to power Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India's premier defence research agency, is carrying out trials of the indigenously developed Kaveri jet engine in Russia and is planning to use it for powering the Made in India long-range Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV).The Kaveri engine is undergoing detailed trials in Russia and there are around 25 hours of testing left to be done on it. The slots have to be given by the authorities, defence officials informed India Today engine is planned to be used for powering the indigenous UCAV project, they said. Interest in the Kaveri engine has been revived as there is an ongoing trend in the Evian media, asking the government to #FundKaveri engine project. The Kaveri engine was planned to be developed by the DRDO for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), but due to delays in the programme, the combat aircraft had to be powered by the American GE-404 GE-404 has been used to power the 32 LCA Mark 1s and the twin-seater-trainer versions. The 83 LCA Mark 1As are also set to be powered by the GE-404s, but the plan has been delayed due to issues in supplies by the American firm. Asked if the Kaveri engine could still be used for powering the LCA, the officials said there were plans to put the Kaveri on one of the LCA aircraft and showcase its DRDO is also working towards working with a foreign firm for the development and manufacturing of a more powerful engine for the futuristic aircraft, including the Mark 2 versions of the fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). India has been in talks with multiple firms, including those from France, the UK and the US. The decision in this regard is expected to be taken Indian indigenous programmes for fighter jets may see a cut down on imports and have indigenous platforms for the Indian Air Force. The Kaveri engine is an indigenously developed turbofan engine in India, developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under the DRDO. The move is a part of India's push for self-reliance in defence technology, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers for aircraft Watch
India.com
27-05-2025
- Automotive
- India.com
Kaveri Engine: Powering India's Sky-High Dreams
Kaveri Engine Every Republic Day, we cheer as our fighter jets zoom across the sky, showcasing India's strength. But here's a hard truth: the heart of those jets—the engine—is often made abroad. Imagine if we could power our planes with an engine built right here in India. That's what the Kaveri engine, developed by DRDO, promises. It's not just an engine; it's our shot at self-reliance, pride, and a stronger future. Why Kaveri Is a Game-Changer The Kaveri engine, crafted by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru under DRDO, began in the 1980s to power the Tejas fighter jet. Today, it's being adapted for unmanned drones like Ghatak, India's first stealth UCAV. This shift is critical because India still relies heavily on foreign engines from countries like the US or France. If those supplies are halted, our jets could be grounded. Kaveri aims to change that by making India self-reliant in defence aviation. Beyond security, developing the Kaveri engine means more jobs for Indian engineers, better use of public funds, and a chance to become a global exporter of engine technology. It keeps defence secrets secure and builds valuable skills that can later be used in civilian aircraft, naval vessels, and drones. How Much Power Does Kaveri Produce? The Kaveri engine is a turbofan engine—built to push aircraft at high speeds over long distances. It currently exists in two versions: • Dry Variant (No Afterburner): Generates 49–51 kN of thrust—suitable for unmanned drones like Ghatak. • With Afterburner (Kaveri 2.0): Expected to reach 73–75 kN, with recent upgrades adding an additional 29 kN through an afterburner system, bringing the total closer to 79 kN. To compare, the Tejas jet requires more than 85 kN of thrust. The American GE F404 engine currently powering Tejas delivers about 84 kN. While Kaveri is already promising for drones, it still needs a boost to power fighter jets. Why Isn't Kaveri Ready Yet? Creating a jet engine is one of the most difficult engineering tasks. Here's why Kaveri is still a work in progress: 1. Technical Challenges: The engine struggles with high internal temperatures, especially in the turbine area. These heat levels can damage components, and managing them requires advanced materials like single-crystal turbine blades—technologies still being mastered in India. 2. Testing Limitations: India lacks dedicated high-altitude testing facilities. As a result, Kaveri has been tested abroad, such as in Russia, where high-altitude tests once achieved only 48.5 kN—well below the desired 81 kN. This slows progress and increases costs. 3. Long Development Timeline: Initiated in 1989, the project faced multiple hurdles. International sanctions after India's 1998 nuclear tests disrupted collaboration. In 2008, the engine was officially delinked from the Tejas project due to low thrust output. Attempts to collaborate internationally, like with France's Snecma, also fell through. 4. Power Deficit: While the dry version suits drones, the thrust isn't enough for fighters. In-flight testing, now ongoing on a modified Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft, is helping refine the design and performance in real-world conditions. When Can We See Kaveri in Action? India is taking a phased approach: • For Drones (Ghatak UCAV): The dry variant is almost ready and is expected to power the Ghatak drone by 2026. Drones require less thrust and can benefit from Kaveri's current capabilities. • For Fighter Jets (Tejas/AMCA): The afterburning version of Kaveri is being upgraded to meet the thrust needs of fighter jets. With adequate funding and technological progress, it may be ready for integration into aircraft like Tejas or the upcoming AMCA by the late 2020s or early 2030s. Industry estimates suggest that with ₹25,000 crore in funding, a 105 kN thrust engine could be achievable by 2030. • For Other Platforms: Kaveri's technology is already powering a 12 MW marine gas turbine since 2008. By 2027–28, more applications for ships and other platforms may be realized. Recently, the Defence Minister announced increased funding to speed up development. Private players such as Larsen & Toubro are also getting involved, proposing a 110 kN engine based on the Kaveri framework, which could be ready by the early 2030s if the project receives consistent support. Why India Must Keep Pushing Kaveri Kaveri is more than a technological ambition—it's a national necessity. Here's why the effort must continue: • Strategic Independence: Foreign engines are not always guaranteed. A homegrown engine ensures India's defence readiness under any circumstances. • Economic Benefits: Building engines locally creates thousands of jobs, retains valuable capital within the country, and opens avenues for exports. • National Confidence: Imagine a Republic Day flypast in 2030, where Indian-made Tejas and Ghatak aircraft roar across the sky powered by Kaveri engines—built in India, by Indians. That would be a defining moment of pride. Public sentiment is increasingly in favour of greater investment in indigenous defence projects. Citizens, veterans, and engineers are calling for more action and attention from the government. With consistent effort, policy support, and industry participation, the Kaveri engine can become a global symbol of India's technological progress. The Sky Is Not the Limit Today, Kaveri produces 49–51 kN of thrust, which is nearly ready for drones. With continued work, upgrades could soon push that to 79 kN and beyond, bringing us closer to a 105 kN-class engine. With stronger funding, testing infrastructure, and private-sector collaboration, India can transform Kaveri from a promising project into a powerhouse of aviation. Let us dream, design, and deliver. Let us make Kaveri soar. Because when it flies, it carries the dreams of a billion Indians.
