Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has once again underlined the central role of drones in modern warfare and national security. Speaking at the launch of a state-of-the-art drone and defence manufacturing unit in Gautam Buddha Nagar, Singh noted that drones are no longer optional assets—they are essential tools in India’s evolving defence playbook.

According to him, future conflicts will be defined not only by tanks, aircraft, or artillery, but by unmanned aerial systems capable of going where conventional machines cannot. Singh highlighted that drones provide unparalleled advantages in surveillance, reconnaissance, tactical strikes, and situational awareness, making them indispensable to the armed forces.

His remarks came against the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, a successful military exercise where indigenous drones played a decisive role in neutralizing threats in record time. The operation, Singh said, showcased how domestic innovation and determination can deliver swift, decisive results—and why India must continue to invest in homegrown drone technology.

Why Drones Matter in Modern Warfare

Rajnath Singh stressed that the changing nature of global conflicts demands adaptability. Nations that integrate drone technology into their defence strategy gain a significant edge on the battlefield.

Some of the key benefits highlighted include:

  • Access to hard-to-reach zones: Drones can operate in terrains where heavy vehicles, tanks, or even soldiers may struggle to reach.

  • Real-time intelligence: Surveillance drones provide commanders with immediate situational awareness, reducing uncertainty in combat.

  • Precision strikes: Armed drones can target threats with accuracy, minimizing collateral damage while maximizing effectiveness.

  • Rapid deployment: Unlike large defence systems that require massive logistics, drones can be quickly mobilized for tactical needs.

Operation Sindoor was cited as an example where drones not only provided critical intelligence but also executed missions that saved lives and time.

India’s Expanding Drone Market: From Niche to Mainstream

India’s drone sector has transformed from a niche industry into a fast-growing economic and strategic ecosystem. According to estimates, the country’s drone and drone-component market is projected to reach USD 23 billion by 2030.

Key trends driving this growth include:

  • Defence: The armed forces are increasingly adopting drones for surveillance, border monitoring, FPV-based tactical units, and combat support.

  • Agriculture: Around 40% of Indian drone companies believe precision farming will be the biggest driver of drone adoption by 2030.

  • Logistics & Infrastructure: Nearly 15% of drone usage is expected in delivery solutions, surveying, and infrastructure monitoring.

Globally too, the demand for agricultural drones is booming, with the market expected to touch USD 5.89 billion by 2030, growing at over 22% CAGR. This global momentum reinforces India’s prospects of becoming a leading player in drone manufacturing and application.

FPV Platoons: A Game-Changer for Infantry

One of the most ambitious initiatives Singh outlined was the creation of FPV (First-Person View) platoons in every infantry battalion of the Indian Army. These specialized platoons are set to revolutionize frontline operations.

Structure of FPV Platoons:

  • Each unit will consist of 20–30 personnel, including drone pilots, maintenance technicians, and tactical operators.

  • Equipped with FPV drones, these teams will provide real-time battlefield visuals directly to commanders.

  • They will support precision strikes, reconnaissance missions, and situational mapping in urban and high-risk terrains.

By complementing elite infantry groups such as Ghatak platoons, FPV platoons will enhance tactical agility, minimize risks to soldiers, and accelerate decision-making in high-pressure combat scenarios.

Operation Sindoor: Proving India’s Drone Capability

A defining moment in India’s defence drone journey was Operation Sindoor, which demonstrated the effectiveness of indigenous drones in real combat conditions.

  • During the operation, Indian troops neutralized enemy positions in just 22 minutes, using domestically built drones.

  • The drones were designed and deployed within 14 months, thanks to collaboration between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private partners such as Refi M Fiber.

  • The mission underscored how science, courage, and strategy converge to produce swift results when indigenous technology is at the core.

Singh remarked that the success of Operation Sindoor is a clear signal of India’s growing self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

Building India’s Drone Manufacturing Ecosystem

Rajnath Singh also emphasized that the drone revolution is not just about military use—it is about building an entire ecosystem of manufacturing, R&D, and innovation within India.

Some of the initiatives supporting this include:

  • Defence Manufacturing in Uttar Pradesh: New drone facilities are being set up, making Noida a defence and drone hub.

  • Make in India: By promoting collaboration between scientists, startups, and industries, the government is ensuring that domestic solutions replace costly imports.

  • Youth Involvement: Startups led by young entrepreneurs are pushing the boundaries of drone innovation, supported by policy and funding.

  • Cost-Effective Strength: Homegrown drones not only meet India’s tactical requirements but also reduce dependency on global supply chains, offering affordable yet powerful solutions.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath echoed Singh’s remarks, stating that India’s strength lies in balancing cutting-edge technology with tactical readiness.

The Road Ahead: India’s Drone-Powered Future

Rajnath Singh’s address made it clear that drones are now a core part of India’s defence architecture. The road ahead is filled with both opportunities and responsibilities:

  • Military Strategy: Drones enhance battlefield awareness, reduce risks to soldiers, and provide rapid tactical advantages.

  • FPV Platoons: Specialized units will strengthen infantry capabilities and integrate drones into every layer of military operations.

  • Self-Reliance: Domestic manufacturing ensures that India is not dependent on imports for critical technologies.

  • Civilian Adoption: Agriculture, infrastructure, and logistics are all poised to benefit from more affordable and accessible drone technology.

Companies like InsideFPV are leading the charge, creating drones designed for both civilian and defence use, further bridging the gap between innovation and deployment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are drones central to India’s defence strategy?
Drones provide real-time reconnaissance, intelligence, and precision strike capabilities in environments where traditional equipment cannot operate.

2. What are FPV platoons?
FPV platoons are specialized infantry teams trained to operate first-person view drones for surveillance, tactical strikes, and enhanced battlefield intelligence.

3. How was Operation Sindoor significant?
It demonstrated the effectiveness of domestically developed drones, with threats neutralized in just 22 minutes—showcasing India’s rapid innovation and deployment capacity.

4. How large is India’s drone market expected to be by 2030?
The market could reach USD 23 billion, driven by defence, agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure applications.