SOURCE: AFI
A recent image of the CATS Warrior, part of the Loyal Wingman program, reveals an intriguing design feature: the front fuselage sections appear to have significant empty space. This observation, captured in a photo dated around June 2025, shows engineers working on the sleek, unmanned aerial platform, with the text “DESIGN, PRODUCTION & UPGRADE” overlaid, hinting at ongoing development.
The empty space in the front fuselage presents a unique opportunity for enhancement. Integrating an air-cooled Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar could transform the CATS Warrior into a more formidable asset. This upgrade would elevate its capabilities beyond its current role, potentially turning it into a mini-fighter jet. Equipped with a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile, the platform could engage targets at extended distances, significantly boosting its lethality.
The CATS Warrior is already designed to integrate with the ASRAAM (Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile), which features its own Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker. This allows the platform to lock onto and destroy targets using heat signatures, enhancing its versatility in combat. Additionally, the Warrior can carry the Astra MkI missile, guided over a network by a manned fighter jet acting as a mothership. This networked approach enables coordinated strikes, with the mothership directing the unmanned unit.
Incorporating an AESA radar would take this capability further. The radar would allow each CATS Warrior unit to operate semi-autonomously, detecting and tracking targets independently. This could enable pack-hunting tactics, where multiple Warriors communicate with each other and the mothership, sharing data to engage threats more effectively. The manned fighter could either guide the pack or delegate tasks, making the system highly adaptable in dynamic battle scenarios.
This potential upgrade underscores the CATS Warrior’s evolving role in modern warfare, blending advanced technology with tactical flexibility. As development continues, the integration of such systems could redefine the platform’s contribution to air combat operations.
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