India has taken another step forward in strengthening its unmanned aerial capabilities by trialing an artificial intelligence (AI) platform from U.S.-based defence technology firm Shield AI. The Defence Ministry recently tested the company’s Hivemind autonomy system with its “Nova 2” drones in Himachal Pradesh, evaluating how the platform performs in communication-denied and GPS-jammed conditions.
Unlike conventional UAV operations that rely on human pilots or satellite navigation, Hivemind allows drones to make independent decisions in the air, navigate unfamiliar environments, and carry out missions beyond the operator’s line of sight. This type of AI autonomy is seen as critical for modern warfare, where electronic warfare and jamming often disrupt traditional control systems.
According to industry reports, the trials demonstrated that the Nova 2 drones could coordinate effectively using the onboard AI, without needing constant human oversight. The system’s ability to maintain functionality in denied environments could significantly enhance India’s preparedness in high-conflict scenarios.
The testing also aligns with India’s broader strategy of diversifying drone capabilities under its accelerated defence acquisition programme. Alongside these trials, discussions are underway for local manufacturing partnerships, including a potential joint venture to build Shield AI’s V-BAT drones in India. Such an agreement would not only boost domestic defence production but also bring advanced AI-based drone technology into the Indian industrial ecosystem.
By exploring AI-powered autonomy, India aims to ensure that its armed forces remain equipped with the latest technologies while simultaneously strengthening indigenous defence capacity.
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