Source: The post India seeks to expand role in global drone market has been created, based on the article “A war game-changer in a battle for influence in Asia” published in “The Hindu” on 14th August 2025. India seeks to expand role in global drone market.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology. And Security challenges.
Context: The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict showed how drones are changing wars. In 2024, Operation Sindoor confirmed this shift for India and Pakistan. Drones moved from reconnaissance roles to precision strike platforms. This change has pushed India to modernise its unmanned aerial systems.
For detailed information on Drone Revolution Changing the Face of Rural India read this article here
Transformation in Warfare and India’s Drone Needs
- From Reconnaissance to Precision Strikes: In Operation Sindoor, drones played a decisive role. They were not only gathering intelligence but also hitting targets with precision.
- Varied Terrain and Border Challenges: India’s borders with China and Pakistan include high-altitude regions. These areas need long-range UAVs that can carry heavy payloads. Smaller, cheaper systems are also needed for specific strike missions.
- Current Inventory Limitations: India uses Israeli Harop and Heron drones. These are older models. India also operates older imports and some domestic drones. Many of these do not meet current operational demands.
Procurement Trends and Global Supply Considerations
- Recent Acquisitions from the U.S.: In 2024, India ordered 31 MQ-9B Reaper drones from the U.S. This will help maritime surveillance and strengthen U.S. ties. However, this does not meet all of India’s needs.
- Shifting from Full Imports to Component Sourcing: India may not buy full U.S. systems in the future. Instead, it may focus on buying key parts like engines and payloads.
- Global Competitors and U.S. Shortcomings: The U.S. is losing ground to China and Türkiye in drone exports. In 2023, it had only 8% of the global market. Strict MTCR rules slowed its exports, though reforms may improve this.
Strategic Gaps and Opportunities for India
- Limited Supplier Options: India cannot depend on China or Türkiye for defence technology. Israel is busy with its own conflicts. India is turning to Israel and Europe for cooperation.
- Scope for Regional Supply Role: India’s needs match those of many Indo-Pacific nations. If India develops drones for itself, these could also meet their needs.
- Preventing Rival Influence: By supplying drones to the region, India can reduce Türkiye’s influence.
The China Factor in Regional Security
- Maritime Domain Awareness Needs: Countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan face Chinese maritime pressure. They need drones to track “gray-zone” activities.
- Protection of Sovereignty and Resources: Such systems protect fisheries, energy zones, and borders from Chinese intrusion.
- Strategic Partnerships Potential: India can work with these countries to improve their surveillance and defence capabilities.
Building India’s Domestic UAV Ecosystem
- Overcoming Institutional Hurdles: India’s defence sector is slowed by bureaucracy and public sector control.
- Leveraging Joint Ventures: Partnerships with Israel and Europe can improve technology and production skills.
- Technology-Sharing in the Indo-Pacific: Sharing drone technology with friendly nations can boost trust and regional security.
Question for practice:
Examine the opportunities and challenges for India in developing and exporting drones in the Indo-Pacific region.
