India’s recent military clash with Pakistan has underscored its accelerating push to expand its drone capabilities, which experts say could serve as a cost-effective interim solution while the country waits for its fifth-generation fighter jets.
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The cross-border operation – launched in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam – saw Indian forces deploy a mix of locally made and imported drones to destroy nine militant camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Analysts say the campaign, dubbed Operation Sindoor, marked a turning point in India’s military doctrine.
“The operation’s success, marked by the destruction of nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir using indigenous and imported drones like the Harop, SkyStriker and ALS-50, has highlighted the pivotal role of unmanned aerial systems [UAS] in modern warfare. India will significantly expand its military drone use and deployment,” said Srinivasan Balakrishnan, director of strategic engagements and partnerships for the Indo-Pacific region and analyst with Indic Researchers Forum.
“Drones can be a cost-effective interim solution for India until it develops sophisticated fifth-generation fighter planes.”
The Indian Air Force’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) with stealth capabilities is currently projected to have its first prototype flight in 2028-29. Production and induction into the air force are expected to follow, with the goal of having the aircraft ready for service by 2034.
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