Indian Army Unveils Drone & Loitering Munitions Roadmap

On 6th April 2026, the Indian Army released a comprehensive technology roadmap for drones and loitering munitions, outlining future requirements and signalling a shift towards unmanned warfare systems.

Key Points

Objective
- Define long-term requirements for unmanned systems.
- Guide industry, startups, MSMEs, and academia.
Scope of Roadmap
- Covers 30 categories and ~80 variants.
- Includes surveillance, combat, logistics, and air defence roles.
Key Segments Identified
- Surveillance,
- Loitering munitions,
- Air defence,
- Special operations,
- Logistics.
Strategic Context
- Inspired by lessons from conflicts like Russia–Ukraine war.
- Highlights effectiveness of low-cost, high-impact drone systems.
Operational Shift
- Move towards integrated and multi-role drone deployment.
- Focus on autonomous systems and network-centric warfare.
Launch & Stakeholders
- Released at Bharat Mandapam.
- Involvement of industry bodies, academia, and defence manufacturers.
Security Concern
- Army cautioned against sharing sensitive roadmap details.
Policy Alignment
- Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence technology.
- Promotes indigenous innovation and R&D.