On June 21, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and President Joe Biden of the United States announced a major defence deal that would see India purchase 31 MQ-9B Reaper remotely-piloted aircraft systems from General Atomics. The deal is seen as a major boost to India’s military capabilities.

Indian Central Government will start the formal acquisition process for the 31 weaponised MQ-9B Reaper drones within this fiscal and complete the induction of all the remotely-piloted aircraft systems in phases in over 6-7 years. As per this deal, 15 SeaGuardians will be inducted into the Navy, eight SkyGuardians each will be inducted into the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. While the deal is seen as a sign of the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States, the MQ-9B deal is a significant development in India’s military modernisation program. The acquisition of the MQ-9 Reapers will give India a significant boost in its ability to monitor and respond to threats along its borders. The drones will also be a valuable asset in India’s efforts to combat terrorism and other forms of violence.

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare, combat drones or Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) have evolved from mere technological advancements to an absolute necessity for all armed forces. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide unparalleled capabilities, including surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, and precision strikes, thereby transforming the dynamics of military operations. Recognising the indispensability of combat drones, India finds itself in a critical position to develop an indigenous drone manufacturing industry that meets international standards to cater to its military requirements.

To achieve this ambitious objective, India must focus on several key aspects. First and foremost, technological advancement plays a pivotal role. The nation must invest in research and development to push the boundaries of drone technology, enhancing their performance, range, endurance, and stealth capabilities. By fostering innovation and collaboration with leading technology companies and research institutions, India can leverage cuttingedge advancements to build superior combat drones.

Equally crucial is the need for skill development. India should establish comprehensive training programmes to cultivate a highly skilled workforce proficient in designing, manufacturing, and operating combat drones. This includes specialised training in areas such as avionics, artificial intelligence, control systems, and sensor integration. By nurturing a pool of talented professionals, India can ensure the successful development and operation of indigenous combat drones.

In addition, robust regulatory frameworks are essential to govern the deployment and usage of combat drones. These frameworks should address safety, privacy, ethical considerations, and international regulations. By establishing clear guidelines and standards, India can instil confidence in the industry, promote responsible drone usage, and facilitate seamless integration into military operations.

Collaboration is another crucial element in developing an indigenous drone manufacturing industry. India should actively seek partnerships with international defence organisations, research institutions, and drone manufacturers. By forging alliances and sharing expertise, India can benefit from the knowledge and experience of established players in the global drone industry. Collaboration also presents opportunities for joint research and development projects, technology transfer, and access to critical components and subsystems.

Furthermore, financial support is vital to sustain the development and growth of the indigenous drone ecosystem. India should allocate adequate funding and resources to support research and development initiatives, establish testing and certification facilities, and provide incentives for private sector participation. By investing in the drone industry, India can attract global manufacturers to set up production facilities within the country, which would not only boost domestic manufacturing but also bring in the requisite technological know-how.

Until India’s indigenous drone manufacturing capabilities are fully established and operational, it is imperative to continue procuring combat drones from leading global manufacturers. These acquisitions will enhance India’s defence capabilities and provide valuable experience and insights into the functioning and deployment of advanced drone systems. Simultaneously, India should foster an environment that encourages global manufacturers to invest in the country, transfer technology, and collaborate with local partners to develop the indigenous drone ecosystem.

India stands at a pivotal juncture where the development of an indigenous drone manufacturing industry is not just a strategic imperative but also an avenue for self-reliance and technological growth. By prioritising technological advancement, skill development, regulatory frameworks, collaboration, and financial support, India can accelerate its journey toward achieving self-sufficiency in drone technology. This will not only bolster the nation’s defence capabilities but also contribute significantly to its overall technological prowess and global competitiveness in the evolving landscape of modern warfare.