Are Counter-UAVs Essential for Future Warfare with Self-reliance in Focus?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal address, IAF leaders emphasized the critical role of drone warfare and the importance of self-reliance in India's defense sector. With recent experiences highlighting the need for indigenous capabilities, the future of warfare may hinge on how effectively India can develop and integrate its own technologies.
Key Takeaways
- Drone warfare is becoming increasingly significant in modern military strategies.
- Self-reliance in defense technology is essential for national security.
- India aims to develop indigenous systems to reduce dependence on foreign technology.
- The multi-layered approach is necessary for effective counter-drone strategies.
- Innovation in the defense sector is vital for future readiness.
New Delhi, Sep 23 (NationPress) Emphasizing the escalating significance of drone warfare and home-grown defence capabilities, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, highlighted on Tuesday that India’s experience during 'Operation Sindoor' has demonstrated the critical nature of self-reliance for national security.
These statements were made during the opening session of a conference titled "Counter UAVs & Air Defence Systems – The Future of Modern Warfare", organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) in New Delhi.
In an interview with IANS, Air Marshal Dixit remarked: "During Operation Sindoor, we understood the paramount importance of self-reliance. Our vision materialized… everyone is now highly motivated. We are committed to developing indigenous systems. The Prime Minister's emphasis on Mission Sudarshan Chakra and the necessity for domestic engines further underlines that self-reliance is the way forward. Future projects will utilize our own indigenous methodologies."
Regarding drones, he acknowledged that there are still components not manufactured in India but stressed efforts to rectify this.
"We are working to ensure those components are produced in India. Our policies have been reformed, and we are actively engaging and motivating stakeholders. For UAVs, a Request for Proposal (RFP) will be released with a strong emphasis on Make in India," he added.
He also noted that only a few countries globally can design their own fighter jets or frigates, and India's strides towards self-sufficiency in such technologies is a significant accomplishment.
Highlighting India's preparedness, he pointed out: "We are always ready for any eventuality. Indigenous content is progressively increasing, and through asymmetric warfare, we will effectively address varied threats and secure our national safety."
During his address, Air Marshal Dixit elaborated on the multi-layered strategy required for counter-drone systems, which includes radar, sensors, weapons, and integration with AI. He mentioned that hybrid warfare has rendered drones as both a challenge and an opportunity, stressing the necessity for cost-effective and fool-proof systems to provide India with a competitive edge.
Echoing similar sentiments, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, Air Marshal Rakesh Sinha, stated that the battlefield landscape is undergoing a "seismic shift" due to the rise of drones, which have become central to contemporary military strategy.
Referencing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he observed that 60–70 percent of battlefield engagements now involve unmanned aerial systems. "We have witnessed how a $1,000 drone can inflict damage on an aircraft valued at $200 million. This asymmetric advantage renders drone warfare both revolutionary and perilous. Ukraine is currently producing 4.5 million drones annually," he noted.
Both senior officials called upon the Indian industry and academia to enhance innovation and ensure the integration of indigenous technologies in drones and counter-UAV systems, emphasizing that future conflicts will hinge on nations' abilities to counter the drone threat.
Point of View
It is clear that India’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities is not just strategic but essential for national security. The proactive steps being taken by the IAF to integrate local technologies into drone warfare reflect a forward-thinking approach that aligns with global defense trends.
NationPress
23/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is self-reliance critical for India's national security?
Self-reliance is crucial as it reduces dependency on foreign technologies, enhances operational capabilities, and ensures that India can effectively respond to threats without relying on external support.
What role do drones play in modern warfare?
Drones are pivotal in modern warfare as they provide surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional military assets.
How is India progressing towards indigenous defense technologies?
India is reforming its defense policies to promote local manufacturing, encouraging industries to develop and produce defense systems and components domestically.
What is Mission Sudarshan Chakra?
Mission Sudarshan Chakra aims to boost India's self-reliance in defense by developing and integrating indigenous technologies across various military platforms.
How does asymmetric warfare impact military strategies?
Asymmetric warfare alters military strategies by allowing smaller, less equipped forces to challenge larger, more advanced adversaries, often through the use of cost-effective technologies like drones.
