Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has emphasized the growing importance of drones in India’s military strategy. Speaking at the launch of a drone and defence manufacturing facility in Gautam Buddha Nagar, Singh highlighted that drones are now critical in modern warfare, where traditional equipment may not reach.
Operations like Sindoor have showcased the power of domestic innovation and rapid drone deployment, underlining India’s capability to meet modern security challenges.
Why Drones Are Essential in Modern Warfare
According to Rajnath Singh:
-
Drones operate in areas inaccessible to conventional equipment.
-
They provide tactical advantages in reconnaissance, surveillance, and precision strikes.
-
Operation Sindoor demonstrated how drones, coupled with determination and strategy, can deliver rapid results.
By adopting indigenously developed drones, India is strengthening Atmanirbhar Bharat and building trust in domestic technology.
A Look at India’s Expanding Drone Market
The Indian drone industry is growing rapidly, with projections showing a $23 billion market by 2030. Key growth drivers include:
-
Defence applications: Increasing adoption in surveillance, border security, and FPV platoons.
-
Agriculture: 40% of drone companies report strong potential for precision farming solutions.
-
Logistics and infrastructure: 15% of drones are expected to improve efficiency in these sectors.
Globally, the agricultural drone market is projected to reach $5.89 billion by 2030, reflecting the worldwide demand for drones across industries.
FPV Platoons: Transforming Infantry Operations
India plans to introduce First-Person View (FPV) platoons in every infantry battalion. These units will:
-
Consist of 20–30 trained personnel, including drone operators and technicians.
-
Provide real-time surveillance, precision strikes, and operational intelligence.
-
Enhance situational awareness in urban and complex terrains.
-
Complement elite infantry units like Ghatak platoons, providing faster tactical response.
FPV platoons are a significant step in integrating drones into frontline operations, increasing efficiency while reducing risk to soldiers.
Operation Sindoor: A Case Study
Operation Sindoor highlights the power of domestic drones in modern warfare:
-
Indian troops neutralized threats within 22 minutes using drones.
-
Drones and equipment were developed domestically in 14 months, in collaboration with DRDO and Refi M Fiber.
-
This operation demonstrated the synergy of courage, science, and innovation, achieving swift, decisive results.
Rajnath Singh underlined that the operation reflects India’s growing confidence in homegrown defence technology.
Domestic Innovation and Drone Manufacturing in India
Singh emphasized that India’s defence strategy is evolving with domestic innovation:
-
New drone manufacturing and defence units in Uttar Pradesh are shaping Noida into a defence hub.
-
Collaboration between scientists, industries, and youth is accelerating Make in India initiatives.
-
Homegrown drones provide cost-effective solutions while maintaining tactical superiority.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the balance between technology and tactical readiness, stating that national strength relies on both innovation and operational preparedness.
Key Numbers at a Glance
-
According to a report by EY and FICCI, India's drone and components industry is expected to significantly strengthen its manufacturing potential to approximately $23 billion by 2030. (source)
-
A survey of 150 drone companies across 15 cities revealed that 40% believe agriculture and precision farming will drive the largest demand for drones in India by 2030, following the defence sector. (source)
-
The global agricultural drone market is projected to reach $5.89 billion by 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.4% from 2021 to 2030. (source)
The Future of Drone Warfare in India
Rajnath Singh’s statements emphasize that drones are a core part of India’s defence strategy. Key takeaways:
-
Drones enhance battlefield intelligence and situational awareness.
-
FPV platoons increase operational efficiency and reduce risk to personnel.
-
Domestic drone manufacturing supports self-reliance in defence technology.
-
Growth in agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure demonstrates cross-sector adoption.
Companies like InsideFPV are at the forefront, developing drones for both defence and civilian applications. This demonstrates India’s potential to lead in drone technology globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are drones critical in India’s defence strategy?
Drones provide reconnaissance, real-time intelligence, and precision capabilities in areas traditional equipment cannot reach.
What are FPV platoons?
FPV platoons are specialized infantry units trained to operate drones for surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision operations.
How fast was Operation Sindoor executed?
Indian troops used drones to neutralize threats within 22 minutes, showcasing rapid deployment and tactical efficiency.
How big is India’s drone market projected to be by 2030?
The market is expected to reach $23 billion, driven by defence, agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure.
