In today’s era of modern warfare, technology plays a crucial role in determining the strength and strategy of a nation’s military. One such technology that has transformed the battlefield is the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), more commonly known as a drone. The Indian Armed Forces have increasingly adopted drones for surveillance, combat, and intelligence purposes. Let’s explore the list of drones used by Indian Armed Forces, and take a look at the prominent drones in India’s defence arsenal.
What is a Drone?
A drone is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that can be remotely controlled or fly autonomously using software-controlled flight plans in their embedded systems. Drones come in various sizes and are equipped with different technologies such as cameras, GPS, sensors, and weapons depending on their purpose.
In military applications, drones serve multiple functions such as surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, intelligence gathering, combat missions, and even logistical support.
List of Drones Used by Indian Armed Forces
India has significantly ramped up its drone capabilities in recent years, both through indigenous development and foreign procurement. Here’s a list of drones currently used or being acquired by the Indian Armed Forces:
1. Heron (Israel)
- Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone.
- Used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
- Equipped with day-night vision and long endurance.
2. Searcher II (Israel)
- Tactical UAV used by the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Primarily used for reconnaissance and surveillance.
- Operates at medium range with real-time data transmission.
3. Rustom Series (India – DRDO)
- Indigenous MALE drones under development.
- Rustom-1, Rustom-2 (now TAPAS-BH-201) for ISR roles.
- A step toward reducing dependency on foreign UAVs.
4. Nishant (India – DRDO)
- Short-range UAV for reconnaissance and surveillance.
- Used for battlefield surveillance and target tracking.
5. Netra (India – IdeaForge & DRDO)
- Mini UAV for counter-insurgency and disaster management.
- Used by paramilitary forces and the Indian Army.
6. Switch UAV (India – IdeaForge)
- Fixed-wing vertical takeoff and landing drone.
- Provides surveillance in high-altitude and tough terrains like Ladakh.
7. MQ-9B SeaGuardian (USA – General Atomics)
- High-altitude long-endurance armed drone.
- India is in the process of acquiring 31 drones (10 each for the three services and 1 spare).
- Capable of both ISR and precision strikes.
8. Harop (Israel)
- Loitering munition (suicide drone).
- Targets enemy radars and defence systems by self-destructing on impact.
9. Lakshya (India – DRDO)
- Aerial target drone used for training and weapon testing.
How Are Drones Used in the Military?
Drones have redefined how modern militaries operate. Some key uses include:
- Surveillance & Reconnaissance: Monitoring borders, enemy movements, and critical areas.
- Combat Operations: Armed drones can strike targets with precision, reducing the need for human pilots.
- Target Acquisition: Marking or designating enemy targets for artillery or airstrikes.
- Electronic Warfare: Jamming enemy radar and communication systems.
- Logistics Support: Delivering supplies and ammunition to remote or hostile locations.
- Search & Rescue: Locating and assisting in recovery during disasters or battlefield scenarios.
Why Does India Need Drones?
India faces multi-dimensional threats from hostile neighbors and insurgencies. The need for drones in India arises from:
- Border Security: With long and sensitive borders with China and Pakistan, drones help maintain 24×7 vigilance.
- Asymmetric Warfare: Counter-insurgency and anti-terror operations require surveillance in difficult terrains.
- Force Multiplier: Drones reduce the risk to human life while increasing operational effectiveness.
- Modern Warfare: To keep pace with technologically advanced adversaries, India must invest in drone warfare.
- Disaster Management: UAVs play a role in search, rescue, and relief efforts during natural disasters.
Conclusion
Drones are no longer a futuristic concept; they are an essential component of modern military strategy. The Indian Armed Forces are steadily enhancing their drone capabilities to meet present and future challenges. With increasing indigenous development and foreign acquisitions, India is set to become a major drone power in Asia, capable of defending its borders and interests with precision and intelligence.
