New Delhi, July 16 (H.S.): Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan highlighted the need to strengthen India’s defence against emerging aerial threats based on experiences from 'Operation Sindoor' against Pakistan. He noted that on May 10, Pakistan used unarmed drones and loitering munitions, but they failed to damage Indian military or civilian infrastructure.

A workshop organized by the Integrated Defence Staff and the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies focused on the indigenization of UAV and C-UAS components. In his keynote address, the CDS emphasized the strategic importance of indigenous UAS and C-UAS for India’s operational needs, stressing that reliance on foreign technology weakens national preparedness and production capabilities. He pointed out that asymmetric drone warfare challenges traditional military platforms, necessitating a rethink of air doctrines and C-UAS development.

Despite the attacks during Operation Sindoor, most drones were neutralized, and some were recovered intact, reinforcing the importance of self-reliance in UAV technology. General Chauhan characterized the evolution of drones as revolutionary in warfare, noting their transformative impact in recent conflicts. He also visited an exhibition focused on indigenizing critical components for UAVs and C-UAS. Overall, he urged investment in domestic capabilities to enhance India’s security and adapt to the changing nature of warfare influenced by drone technology.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar