CDS General Chauhan Stresses on Indigenisation of UAVs in India

New Delhi, Jul 16 (PTI) – On Wednesday, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan highlighted the significant impact of drones in recent global conflicts, stating that they have the potential to "shift tactical balance disproportionately." He emphasized that achieving self-reliance in UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) is a critical strategic priority for India. General Chauhan made these remarks while addressing an event held at the Manekshaw Centre.

The General cited Operation Sindoor as a key example demonstrating the necessity of indigenously developed Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and C-UAS, particularly those tailored for Indian terrain and specific needs. The workshop, organized by Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff (HQ-IDS) in collaboration with the think-tank Centre for Joint Warfare Studies, focused on 'Indigenisation of Critical Components Currently Being Imported from Foreign OEMs in the Areas of UAV & C-UAS.'

This event comes in the wake of recent India-Pakistan tensions, including Operation Sindoor, underscoring the strategic role and operational benefits of UAVs and C-UAS, according to the Defence Ministry. During the keynote address, the CDS described how drone technologies have been game-changers in recent conflicts, allowing for significant tactical shifts despite their small size and cost.

General Chauhan remarked, "Asymmetric drone warfare is challenging large platforms, necessitating reevaluations of air doctrines and prompting the development of C-UAS and adaptive strategies." He mentioned that during Operation Sindoor on May 10, Pakistan deployed unarmed drones and loitering munitions, which fortunately caused no damage to Indian military or civilian targets.

He explained that a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic actions neutralized most of these threats, with some drones even being recovered intact. The operation highlighted the critical importance of locally developed UAS and C-UAS tailored for India's unique requirements.

Stressing the principle of Atmanirbharta, General Chauhan insisted that India must avoid depending on imported technologies vital for both offensive and defensive military operations. He warned that reliance on foreign tech compromises military preparedness, limits production scalability, and can lead to shortages of essential spares.

The workshop saw participation from military leaders, defence experts, scientists, policymakers, and industry representatives, all striving to devising a "strategic roadmap" for the indigenization of critical UAV and C-UAS components, aiming to reduce foreign dependency. Emphasizing the transformative role of UAVs in modern warfare, General Chauhan highlighted their strategic importance to India, not just in terms of self-reliance, but also in empowering the nation to safeguard its interests and capitalize on future opportunities.

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