India eyes largest-ever domestic military drone purchase to boost self-reliance

India is on the verge of its largest-ever domestic procurement of military drones, a move signaling a significant pivot in its defense strategy towards self-sufficiency in advanced military technology. The country is expected to place orders exceeding $2 billion with local manufacturers this year, according to reports.

This substantial acquisition is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of India's armed forces while simultaneously providing a major boost to the nation's burgeoning drone industry. The Drone Federation of India, which collaborates with the government on policy, anticipates deliveries over the next 18 to 24 months.

Smit Shah, President of the Drone Federation of India, highlighted that this planned procurement represents a considerable increase compared to recent orders of tactical-class drones, which were valued at around 30 billion Indian rupees (approximately $313 million). The emphasis on unmanned systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and combat support reflects a global trend accelerated by recent conflicts.

The push for indigenous drone technology aligns with the government's "Make in India" and defense indigenization initiatives. India's accelerated adoption of drones follows clashes with Pakistan last year, where both nations utilized unmanned aerial vehicles extensively, demonstrating the offensive potential of these systems. The conflicts in Ukraine and Iran have further underscored the importance and evolving tactics of drone warfare globally, driving down costs and reshaping battlefield strategies.

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