Army Scales Up Drone Induction

Syllabus :GS3/Defence

In News

• The Indian Army is rapidly expanding its drone and counter-drone capabilities, with multiple units operational and training centers.

About Indian Army’s Plans

• The Indian Army plans to set up drone training centers at 19 major training institutions, including the Indian Military Academy, Infantry School, and Officers Training Academy, to integrate drone training into the standard curriculum for all ranks. 
• Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi announced that every infantry battalion will have a drone platoon, artillery units will get counter-drone systems, and new precision batteries will be raised, highlighting the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare.

Need and Objectives 

• Increased drone incursions from adversaries, especially post-Operation Sindoor, necessitate robust detection and neutralization systems.
  • Drones have become a standard weapon system, prompting an emergency procurement of nearly 1,000 drones of various sizes and 600 training simulators. 
• Drones enhance battlefield awareness, precision targeting, and operational reach.
• Drones are now essential for surveillance, combat, logistics, and medical evacuation.

Challenges

• High costs and logistical demands for training, deployment, and maintenance.
• Cybersecurity & Interoperability related Issues. 
• Balancing drone use with manned operations for optimal strategy.
• Overreliance on tech can weaken long-term readiness.
• Ensuring safe and ethical use of drones in combat and surveillance.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• The Indian Army’s focus on equipping soldiers with drones and strengthening counter-drone defenses represents a major shift in readiness, emphasizing drone skills, advanced surveillance, and homegrown innovation to prepare for the future of unmanned warfare.
• The Army aims to have all soldiers trained in drone operation by 2027, marking a major shift in its organizational structure to incorporate UAVs and counter-UAV systems at the battalion level.

Source :IE