Military Drones, the Vanguard of Warfare: Do not Stymie their Proliferation

Missiles and UAVs have been used rather ingeniously in this conflict, a definite tactical improvement over the way UAVs have been used so far, presumably after lessons learned from the ongoing Russia- Ukraine conflict

By Col Ashwani Sharma(retd)

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are revolutionising military tactics and the burgeoning defence drone industry in India. It reflects on the Iran-Israel conflict’s demonstration of UAVs in modern warfare, highlighting their role in intelligence, tactical deception, and precision strikes. The essay also discusses the strategic implications of UAVs on India’s defence capabilities and industry, addressing the balance between cost, operational readiness, and industrial growth.

The recent Iran-Israel strikes on each other’s territory managed to grab the world’s attention primarily for geopolitical and economic reasons and possible fallout, should the conflict engulf the entire region which is already reeling under the impact of Israel- Hamas confrontation. Stock markets nose-dived each time at the news of military strikes and commodities (including oil) prices rose in sync. On the military front, the strikes reaffirmed the impact of new technologies, mainly unmanned platforms. UAVs and missiles were the primary weapons of assault which were largely countered by new age air defence systems. Before the strikes, it is reasonable to assume that drones and UAVs in addition to satellites would have been used to gather intelligence for selection of targets.ALSO READ

Government extends Army chief’s tenure amidst elections: What you need to know

Escalating Tensions: Russia’s Dispute with Estonia Over Narva River Navigation Buoys

Mistral Solutions Wins Major Order from BEL for Advanced Radar Systems

Navigating Uncertainty: Geopolitical Implications of Leadership Transition in Iran

Missiles and UAVs have been used rather ingeniously in this conflict, a definite tactical improvement over the way UAVs have been used so far, presumably after lessons learned from the ongoing Russia- Ukraine conflict. Paired with ballistic and cruise missiles, UAVs were used to deceive and exhaust the adversary’s air defences. Slow moving low priority drones flying at varying altitudes were used to lure the adversary’s air defence weapon systems and exhaust them over a period of time. Once that was achieved, faster and more lethal missiles and UAVs were launched on priority targets.ALSO READBreaking Barriers: SERA and Blue Origin Pave the Way for Inclusive Space Exploration

What stands out starkly during this limited military operation is the absence of conventional armaments for kinetic strikes, and the variety of drones/UAVs deployed for the operations.

Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones and their impact on modern military tactics is profound and multifaceted, affecting various aspects of warfare.

Drones provide unparalleled real-time surveillance capabilities. Their ability to carry out precise, targeted strikes with minimal collateral damage is particularly valuable in counter-terrorism. Drones offer significant operational flexibility as they can be rapidly deployed and redirected as the tactical situation changes. UAVs can operate in environments that are otherwise inaccessible or too risky for manned missions. Cost effectiveness of drones allows militaries to deploy them in greater numbers.  

In short, they are force multipliers, enhancing the effectiveness of military forces. The use of drones changes the risk calculus for military engagements by removing the immediate risk to life of pilots and soldiers.

India’s military leadership recognises the immense potential the UAS have to offer in multiple roles and domains.  Insights garnered from global battlefields are being continually assimilated and adapted to local conditions. Majority of acquisitions are being made according to the discrete needs of each arm and service, in alignment with their specific operational roles to enhance their operational effectiveness, whether it’s armour, infantry, artillery, or even logistics units employing drones. Similarly, at various levels of field formations depending upon the financial powers delegated to commanders, drones/UAVs are being acquired to meet operational needs which are increasing by the day.

This rapid expansion in capabilities and roles has catalysed the flourishing of a vibrant defence drone industry in India which has witnessed significant growth, spurred by increasing demands and a push for indigenous manufacturing. India’s strategic focus on enhancing its surveillance and combat capabilities has led to a burgeoning drone sector, characterised by a mix of start-ups and established defence contractors. Companies like Idea Forge, Newspace, TASL, DroneAcharya and Paras stand out for their contributions to tactical UAVs.

The Indian government’s recent policy changes and investments indicate strong support for the drone industry. This includes the liberalisation of drone regulations and substantial funding allocations in defence budgets specifically earmarked for UAV procurement and development. As India continues to advance its drone capabilities, the focus is not only on enhancing the technology but also on securing a place in the international market for military drones. This sector is poised to significantly impact India’s defence strategy and its standing in the global defence industry. The economic impact of the drone industry is significant, creating high-tech jobs in manufacturing, software development, and system integration.ALSO READRising Tides: China’s influence Surges in Maldives and growing presence in the Indian Ocean

Apparently, there has been a directive from the Finance division to centralise procurement of UAVs and stop purchases by field formations and units, presumably to limit expenditure on this one category. Such a decision guided by financial considerations alone can be detrimental to the armed forces’ operational readiness. In addition, it will also apply brakes on the thriving defence drone industry in India which is currently in the process of capability and capacity building. It’s crucial to continue nurturing this industry, allowing for the independent capability building of military units while aligning with a unified defence policy to strengthen India’s operational potential. This momentum should not be dampened. 

In conclusion, the defence drone industry is not only flourishing but is also driving transformational changes in military operations worldwide. As drones become more embedded in defence strategies, their development will likely continue to evolve. This dynamic sector thus should be allowed to flourish as units and formations continue to build capability, simultaneously encouraging the Indian drone industry to bolster its capabilities.

This combined with a central unified philosophy and policy will help build operational capability as well.

The author is Editor-in-Chief, South Asia Defence & Strategic Review