Blitz Bureau
INDIA, which has historically relied on countries like Israel for its drone technology, has witnessed a noticeable shift towards developing indigenous drone systems. Of late, there have been several key developments in the drone industry of the country.
For instance, an Indian-made high-altitude drone is now deployed for reconnaissance along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Additionally, a collaborative venture between an Indian conglomerate and an Israeli defence firm based in Hyderabad, and a Bengaluru-based drone technology company acquired by a major Indian business group, reflect the growth of India’s nascent private military drone sector. The Russia-Ukraine war, the IsraelHamas conflict, and the previous Azerbaijan-Armenia clash highlighted a significant trend in modern warfare: the extensive use of drones for both surveillance and offensive operations.
India’s drone rules In August 2021, the Indian Government introduced the ‘Drone Rules 2021,’ aiming to stimulate the growth of domestic drone production and bolster the nation’s military-industrial complex. This regulatory framework is designed to foster a robust indigenous drone industry.
Drones have become increasingly central in conflicts, as seen in the RussiaUkraine war where they are vital for both reconnaissance and attack missions. Ukraine has effectively utilised drones to monitor Russian troop movements, gather intelligence, and target enemy positions. The US-developed “spy ghost” loitering munition and the Turkish Bayraktar drone are examples of technologies that have been used extensively by Ukraine.
The Indian military is also adapting its approach to drone technology. Previously managed by the artillery, drone operations are now under the Army Aviation Corps, which aims to maximise their effectiveness. This shift is evident as the Indian Army uses drones for surveillance along the LAC amidst ongoing tensions with China. Additionally, the Indian Army is now incorporating loitering munitions, a capability previously exclusive to the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Drones procurement
The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force have collectively signed contracts exceeding Rs 500 crore focused on drone technology with Indian companies. This procurement of swarm drones and loitering munitions is part of what is described as a ‘Revolution in Military Affairs’ (RMA), reshaping modern warfare.
Despite the promising developments I this sector, challenges remain. Antara Vats, a Junior Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation, noted that while there is a strong policy focus on enhancing drone manufacturing in India, there is a need for advancements in the software technologies that drive these drones. Vats also called for developing a skilled workforce for both component manufacturing and software development, and increased investment in vocational training and drone-specific educational programmes.
