“Drone warfare is cost-effective and reduces risk to personnel,” points out Vijay Kumar. India’s balanced diplomatic stance and steady economic growth have created a conducive environment for such technologies to expand. The drone sector, therefore, is not just about defence capability. It is about building a new industrial ecosystem that is both domestic and technologically self-reliant.
A key element in this transformation is semiconductor manufacturing. “Without semiconductors, drones and modern defence equipment cannot function,” highlights Vijay Kumar. These components power navigation systems, sensors, communication equipment and artificial intelligence capabilities. At present, India relies heavily on imports, particularly from Taiwan and China. However, new semiconductor projects, including facilities under development in Gujarat, are expected to reduce this dependence over time and enhance the competitiveness of allied industries.
Defence strategy
Recent global conflicts stress the decisive role of unmanned systems in surveillance, intelligence gathering and precision strikes without risking pilot lives. Drones are also significantly cheaper than traditional attack systems. In several instances, large swarms of low-cost drones have overwhelmed expensive missile defence systems, forcing militaries to rethink conventional strategies. As a result, countries worldwide are investing heavily in both drone and counter-drone technologies.
India is also working on such capabilities through the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). “Systems where a drone can intercept incoming drones and neutralise multiple targets are being developed,” Vijay Kumar points out. Going forward, drones are expected to complement existing defence systems by gathering intelligence, identifying targets and supporting military decision-making. “If drones were there during the Kargil conflict, it could have helped monitor enemy positions effectively and saved many lives,” highlights Vijay Kumar.
Technology gaps
Though India has made progress, important technological gaps remain. Defence platforms in India still depend on imported components. “For example, the Tejas aircraft continues to use engines from General Electric in the United States,” points out Vijay Kumar. Developing indigenous engine technology is, therefore, essential for achieving long-term self-reliance in both aviation and drone manufacturing. Beyond propulsion systems, India must also strengthen capabilities in electronics, sensors and artificial intelligence. “AI will play a very major role, but one small wrong calculation can lead to destruction,” cautions Vijay Kumar.
India has set an ambitious goal of becoming a global drone manufacturing hub by 2030. Achieving this will require sustained investment in research and development, stronger public-private collaboration and a clear focus on indigenisation. “The goal should be self-reliance. If we develop our own engines, semiconductors and core technologies, India can emerge as a global leader in the drone ecosystem,” concludes Vijay Kumar.