Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is making significant strides in its Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior program, evolving its unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) from a 1-ton concept first revealed in 2021 to a projected 10-ton high-altitude long-endurance variant designed for intelligence, surveillance, and strike missions. The program includes various models, such as a 2-ton prototype set for its inaugural flight in 2027, and larger variants aimed at enhancing India’s air combat capabilities against regional threats. In a recent promotional video, HAL showcased the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand as a potential mothership for the CATS Warrior UCAVs, illustrating advanced manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) strategies that could transform aerial warfare, particularly in contested environments like the Himalayas. With a strong emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence and advanced avionics, these developments not only bolster India’s indigenous defense capabilities but also position the country as a serious contender in the global UCAV landscape. This advancement is crucial for countering adversarial drone technologies and enhancing India’s strategic deterrence, particularly amid rising tensions in the region. The successful realization of CATS Warrior will significantly enhance the Indian Air Force’s operational flexibility and effectiveness in high-altitude combat scenarios.