The Indian Air Force (IAF) is steering towards a transformative future, focusing on developing a self-reliant drone ecosystem in India. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh made this clear at the Bharat Drone & Robotics Manthan 3.0 conference, emphasizing that every facet of drone technology must originate from within the country.

Speaking at the conference, the Air Chief stressed the importance of aligning with domestic industries and innovators to enhance national security. He noted, “Every brick should be developed in India. Then only we can say we are fully Atmanirbhar” (self-reliant).

As the landscape of modern warfare evolves, drone technology plays a pivotal role. The Air Chief pointed out that cost-effective unmanned systems are essential for maintaining operational efficiency. He highlighted that the Indian defence sector must be agile in adapting to new technologies, warning that hesitation can lead to significant operational costs.

Air Chief Marshal Singh’s approach underscores a paradigm shift where the IAF takes an active role in clarifying operational needs. He indicated that the newly established Directorate of Aerospace Design (DAD) serves as a crucial link between the military and innovators. “The problem statement has to originate from us,” he remarked, inviting startups to engage with the IAF to discuss necessary requirements surrounding drones and related technology.

To expedite this collaboration, the IAF unveiled Dronathon 2026, an initiative set for September. This competition invites companies to demonstrate their drone technologies live, moving away from traditional, slower evaluation processes that rely on paper presentations. This innovative format allows for direct interaction, fostering a competitive environment that rewards ingenuity.

Highlighting the vulnerabilities associated with foreign supply chains, the Air Chief’s call for domestic production resonates in a time of geopolitical uncertainties. He asserted that true self-reliance in defence technology depends on local innovation and production capabilities. “Technology delayed is technology denied,” he cautioned, stressing the necessity for a coalition of academia, regulatory bodies, and manufacturers to streamline the transition of technology from research and development to real-world applications.

While he noted that drones will enhance manned platforms instead of replacing them, the IAF’s move towards collaborative development marks an encouraging shift for India’s aerospace entrepreneurs. It reflects a broader strategy to turn operational challenges into opportunities by leveraging home-grown innovations.

In closing, Air Chief Marshal Singh issued a compelling message for change: “If we keep doing what we are doing, we will get the same results that we have been getting. If we want different results… let us do something different,” he concluded.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is steering towards a transformative future, focusing on developing a self-reliant drone ecosystem in India. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh made this clear at the Bharat Drone & Robotics Manthan 3.0 conference, emphasizing that every facet of drone technology must originate from within the country.

Speaking at the conference, the Air Chief stressed the importance of aligning with domestic industries and innovators to enhance national security. He noted, “Every brick should be developed in India. Then only we can say we are fully Atmanirbhar” (self-reliant).

As the landscape of modern warfare evolves, drone technology plays a pivotal role. The Air Chief pointed out that cost-effective unmanned systems are essential for maintaining operational efficiency. He highlighted that the Indian defence sector must be agile in adapting to new technologies, warning that hesitation can lead to significant operational costs.

Air Chief Marshal Singh’s approach underscores a paradigm shift where the IAF takes an active role in clarifying operational needs. He indicated that the newly established Directorate of Aerospace Design (DAD) serves as a crucial link between the military and innovators. “The problem statement has to originate from us,” he remarked, inviting startups to engage with the IAF to discuss necessary requirements surrounding drones and related technology.

To expedite this collaboration, the IAF unveiled Dronathon 2026, an initiative set for September. This competition invites companies to demonstrate their drone technologies live, moving away from traditional, slower evaluation processes that rely on paper presentations. This innovative format allows for direct interaction, fostering a competitive environment that rewards ingenuity.

Highlighting the vulnerabilities associated with foreign supply chains, the Air Chief’s call for domestic production resonates in a time of geopolitical uncertainties. He asserted that true self-reliance in defence technology depends on local innovation and production capabilities. “Technology delayed is technology denied,” he cautioned, stressing the necessity for a coalition of academia, regulatory bodies, and manufacturers to streamline the transition of technology from research and development to real-world applications.

While he noted that drones will enhance manned platforms instead of replacing them, the IAF’s move towards collaborative development marks an encouraging shift for India’s aerospace entrepreneurs. It reflects a broader strategy to turn operational challenges into opportunities by leveraging home-grown innovations.

In closing, Air Chief Marshal Singh issued a compelling message for change: “If we keep doing what we are doing, we will get the same results that we have been getting. If we want different results… let us do something different,” he concluded.