Indian Air Force rejects creation of separate drone force

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has ruled out the creation of a separate drone force for the Indian Air Force (IAF), characterizing the rise of unmanned systems as ‘evolutionary’ rather than ‘revolutionary.’

Speaking at the IAF's annual press conference in New Delhi, Singh emphasized that drones and loitering munitions should be integrated with existing aircraft and weapon systems to maximize battlefield effectiveness. He argued that operating unmanned systems in isolation would undermine their utility, stating that different weapon types must work together to achieve desired effects.

While the IAF is expanding the quantity, variety, and capability of its drone inventory, Singh noted that the service has possessed drone capabilities for decades. He added that the IAF already maintains specialized units for these technologies and can increase their numbers as operational requirements dictate.