NEW DELHI: Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Wednesday emphasised that self-reliance in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) is a “strategic imperative” for India, noting that recent global conflicts have shown how drones can disproportionately alter the tactical balance on the battlefield.
Speaking at the Manekshaw Centre during a workshop on the indigenisation of critical UAV and C-UAS components, Gen Chauhan said Operation Sindoor underscored the need for systems tailored to India’s unique terrain and operational requirements.
The day-long event, hosted by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ-IDS) in collaboration with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies, focused on replacing imported components with indigenous alternatives.
Referring to recent India-Pakistan hostilities, including Operation Sindoor, the Defence Ministry said these events highlighted the strategic relevance and combat effectiveness of UAVs and C-UAS.
In his keynote address, Gen Chauhan remarked that drones have become a “proof of reality” in modern warfare, offering a disproportionate tactical advantage relative to their size and cost.
“Asymmetric drone warfare is exposing the vulnerability of large platforms and compelling militaries to revise their air doctrines, accelerate C-UAS development, and adapt engagement strategies,” he noted.
He pointed out that during Operation Sindoor on May 10, Pakistan deployed unarmed drones and loitering munitions, but they failed to cause any damage to Indian military or civilian infrastructure.
“Most of these drones were neutralised using a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic measures. Several were recovered almost intact,” Gen Chauhan said.
He reiterated that Operation Sindoor highlighted the importance of having indigenous UAV and C-UAS capabilities that are specifically designed for Indian conditions.
Stressing the vision of Atmanirbharta (self-reliance), Gen Chauhan warned against dependence on foreign technologies for critical defence systems.
“Reliance on imported niche technologies weakens our preparedness, hampers scalable production, and leads to critical spare shortages affecting operational readiness and 24×7 availability,” he cautioned.
