Indian Drone Ecosystem: Need to Innovate to Dominate

Operation Sindoor saw Pakistan launch massed drone attacks which were neutralised by the Indian counter-unmanned aircraft system grid. Pakistan and its all-weather friends, China and Turkey, most likely will learn from this misadventure and evolve better drone designs, coupled with tactics, techniques and procedures, for combat. India needs to prepare for combatting the drones that they throw at it tomorrow and at the same time, build innovative drone capabilities to enhance offensive response options. Drones have incrementally evolved over time in India. However, some technologies can exponentially enhance their capabilities and utility. Does the Indian drone ecosystem have what it takes to deliver? Does success till now guarantee similar performance in future? What are the technologies and innovations that the Indian drone ecosystem can invest in its quest for global domination? What lessons can we take from countries that are leading drone innovations and development? This article makes an attempt to find answers to a few of such questions.