Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has recently stressed the urgent need to incorporate drones into India’s war strategy, reflecting a pivotal shift in military doctrine for the country in 2025.

Singh’s remarks at the inauguration of advanced defence equipment and drone manufacturing facilities in Gautam Buddha Nagar underlined the technological leap drones have introduced to global warfare, especially in light of their extensive deployment in conflicts such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

He cited drones as critical assets capable of achieving real-time reconnaissance, precision strikes, and operational access to hostile terrains where conventional equipment may fail.

Strategic Importance of Drones

Singh observed that the traditional association of air power with fighter jets is being challenged by the rise of drone warfare. He highlighted how drones’ versatility—ranging from surveillance to direct combat—has made them a cornerstone of modern defence strategies.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has demonstrated drones’ ability to not only supplement but often dominate tactical operations, transforming the nature of battlefield engagements from tank-and-artillery centric to drone-led operations. He emphasised that countries investing early and robustly in drone technology have gained a significant edge, while those lagging have faced strategic shortcomings.

Indigenous Capability And Domestic Production

Singh praised India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) ethos, noting the country’s rapid progress in designing, developing, and manufacturing drones domestically. Unlike previous years when India relied on imports, a strong ecosystem is now emerging, driven by entrepreneurs and supported by government initiatives like iDEX, ADITI, and the Technology Development Fund. Manufacturing hubs such as Noida are becoming focal points for research and innovation in defence technology, including UAVs, anti-drone systems, and advanced aerospace components.

Operational Transformation And Training

In alignment with this vision, the Indian Army has launched a ₹390 crore programme to ensure every soldier is trained in drone operation by 2027, signalling the prioritisation of unmanned systems for future conflicts.

Fourteen centres of expertise have been established to foster training, R&D, and simulation resources, reinforcing the integration of drones and related technologies such as AI, cyber warfare, and electronic systems. This large-scale preparedness underscores the disruptive power of drones and their centrality in safeguarding national security amid evolving threats.

Advanced Technologies And Defensive Measures

India’s military modernisation also extends to counter-drone systems and next-generation air defence networks, such as the proposed Sudarshan Chakra, aiming to deliver comprehensive aerial security within the next decade. Singh mentioned successful operations like Operation Sindoor, where indigenous drone platforms played decisive roles in rapid, high-impact missions. Additionally, innovative platforms such as AI-powered swarm drones, stealth UAVs, and automatic anti-swarm rocket systems underscore India’s ambition to become a global drone hub, reduce foreign dependence, and strengthen both offensive and defensive capabilities.

Economic And Policy Impact

The Defence Minister lauded the boost to indigenous manufacturing and defence exports, which reached ₹24,000 crore in 2024-25, with a goal of ₹50,000 crore by 2029. The strategic focus on domestic procurement—allocating 75% of the modernisation budget to local purchases—reflects a policy commitment to technological self-reliance and economic resilience. Singh’s advocacy for drone inclusion in war strategy coincides with ongoing reforms, marking 2025 as the “Year of Defence Reforms,” with a special focus on integrating transformative technologies like drones and AI.

Singh’s call to action represents a watershed moment for India’s defence posture, urging a comprehensive, forward-looking approach to national security that leverages drone technology for operational superiority, strategic autonomy, and battlefield innovation.

Based On ET News Report