India Defines Future Drone Capabilities in New Army Strategy Document
The Indian Army has released a technology roadmap outlining its future requirements for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and loitering munitions.
The nearly 50-page document details around 30 system types across five drone categories, according to local media reports.
Officials said the guide aims to bridge the gap between operational requirements and technology development while encouraging broader participation from domestic industry, startups, and academic institutions.
Focus on Changing Warfare
The roadmap reflects lessons from recent conflicts, where UAS reshaped combat operations and accelerated demand for autonomous capabilities.
It provides a “clear and actionable” strategy, allowing developers to focus on identified operational priorities.
Drone variants include surveillance, strike, air defense, special operations, and logistics support roles.
The document also outlines requirements for platforms capable of reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and long-range resupply.
Army Design Bureau Additional Director General Maj. Gen. CS Mann described the release as the first time the service has publicly shared detailed specifications in this domain, underscoring the growing importance of unmanned solutions.
Separately, Lt. Gen. Rahul Singh, deputy chief of army staff, emphasized the document’s sensitivity and warned against unauthorized sharing due to the risk of exposure to adversaries.
