Unlocking new opportunities for UAV makers, the Indian Army prepares a roadmap to strengthen drone warfare capabilities.
India’s indigenous drone sector is set for a major boost as the Army finalises a detailed roadmap to enhance its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities. The move, expected over the next two months, is designed to create substantial short- and medium-term business opportunities for the domestic industry.
According to senior Army officials, the roadmap will outline operational requirements for drones across missions, from intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) to kamikaze systems and logistics support. Procurement timelines will also be shared, offering industry players long-term visibility and clarity for scaling production.
The Army alone is projected to place acquisition orders worth around $250 million, in addition to the existing $60 billion defence procurement pipeline. This capital infusion is expected to accelerate growth in India’s drone manufacturing ecosystem.
The roadmap will be integrated with a comprehensive policy framework, currently under review by the Defence Procurement Board and Defence Acquisition Council, to streamline acquisitions and ensure system security.
The focus on unmanned systems reflects lessons learned from global conflicts and India’s own operational experience during Operation Sindoor, where gaps in drone capabilities were noted. Military planners now aim to prioritise drones for ISR, offensive strikes, and logistical efficiency.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently reiterated the importance of drones in India’s future combat strategies. However, industry leaders caution that while momentum is building, challenges remain in scaling up production, ensuring quality, and reducing dependence on foreign components.
