General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, recently visited the ‘Drone Excellence Centre’ at Likabali Military Station, highlighting the military’s dedication to advancing its operational capabilities through cutting-edge drone technology.
This visit aligns with the Indian Army’s larger agenda to embrace technological innovation, encapsulated in strategies such as the “Year of Tech Absorption” and the “Decade of Transformation.”
During his inspection, General Dwivedi received a comprehensive briefing on in-house fabricated drones and the related technologies central to the army’s mission of strengthening its tactical and strategic capabilities. The centre, set in a region of strategic importance, is dedicated to training personnel in the crafting, handling, and deployment of drones. This hands-on approach aims to integrate drone capabilities at the unit level, thereby enhancing the overall operational readiness of the army.
The COAS commended the spirit of innovation and technological adoption exhibited by the personnel at the centre. He urged them to continue their development efforts, ensuring that the Indian Army maintains a leading position in modern warfare. This initiative is part of a broader plan to equip each infantry battalion with a drone platoon, alongside providing artillery regiments with counter-drone systems and loitering munitions, a plan previously outlined by General Dwivedi during the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations.
The push towards integrating drones into military operations is viewed as a groundbreaking step, enhancing capabilities in areas such as surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and medical evacuation missions. This initiative resonates with global trends where drones have become essential tools in military operations, known for their precision and efficiency in challenging terrains and conflict environments.
General Dwivedi’s visit to the Drone Excellence Centre at Likabali serves as a demonstration of the Indian Army’s forward-thinking approach to adapting to the changing dynamics of warfare. The emphasis on technological superiority is crucial in a landscape defined by rapid advancements in military capabilities.
As the army persists in its investment in local innovation and technological integration, its goal remains to sustain a competitive edge over potential adversaries, ensuring preparedness and resilience in an era of swift technological change.
