DRDO has initiated a new project to develop a Reusable High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) system designed for modern testing and training requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.

This effort builds upon earlier target drone programs but introduces advanced features that provide greater fidelity in simulating contemporary threats such as next-generation aircraft, UAVs, and cruise missiles.

The planned HEAT platform will incorporate a parachute-based recovery mechanism, enabling reuse across multiple missions. This not only cuts costs compared to fully expendable targets but also increases availability for frequent live-fire drills. A modular, ruggedized design is being pursued to minimise turnaround times between deployments.

A key aspect of the system is its adjustable radar cross-section (RCS) signature technology. By incorporating radar reflectors and configurable surface materials, the drone can mimic a wide spectrum of aerial targets — from small UAVs to larger fighter-sized aircraft — allowing air-defence operators to train against varied radar signatures under realistic conditions.

The drone will include advanced onboard guidance and global navigation augmentation systems for accurate flight control and trajectory management. This ensures highly repeatable flight profiles ranging from low-altitude missile-analogue runs to high-speed maneuvers. Integration of autopilot redundancy and real-time telemetry links will boost reliability and test safety.

Performance objectives emphasise high subsonic-to-transonic speed regimes, with future spirals potentially exploring limited supersonic performance. The propulsion solution is expected to be a compact turbojet/turbofan or gas-turbine derivative developed within India, aligned with DRDO’s goal of reducing imported components in target systems.

In terms of applications, the new HEAT system will serve air-to-air missile trials, surface-to-air missile evaluations, radar tracking exercises, and pilot training scenarios. Unlike previous generations, its RCS control and recovery ability make it more cost-effective and adaptable to emerging doctrines.

The program complements India’s indigenous efforts on other aerial target platforms like Abhyas and Lakshya, while bridging a critical gap between slow expendable drones and advanced manned target aircraft. By improving realism and reusability, the project strengthens India’s test-evaluation ecosystem for air-defence and weapon systems.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)