The Indian Army is moving towards a future where drones will be as integral to a soldier’s kit as their personal weapon. Under a new initiative called “Eagle in the Arm”, the force is introducing large-scale drone training and deployment across all its formations.
The idea is simple but transformative-every soldier, regardless of unit, must be capable of operating drones. From surveillance quadcopters to logistics carriers and even armed loitering systems, the Army wants to ensure that unmanned platforms become a routine part of ground operations.
Why this matters
Drones have already proven decisive in global conflicts, providing intelligence, striking targets, and even saving lives through rapid medical evacuation. For India, with its diverse terrain and sensitive borders, drones promise enhanced visibility, faster decision-making, and an additional layer of security.
The Army also recognises that threats are evolving. With hostile forces increasingly using drones for surveillance and attacks, the military is simultaneously strengthening counter-drone systems. This includes radar-linked detection, jamming equipment, and specialised hard-kill measures to neutralise incoming threats.
Training and Infrastructure
Dedicated drone training hubs are being established at premier Army institutions and forward locations. Recently, the Chief of Army Staff reviewed such facilities in Arunachal Pradesh, underscoring their importance for frontline units.
By 2027, the Army expects all soldiers to be “drone-ready.” Infantry battalions will receive specialised drone platoons, while artillery and mechanised forces will integrate drones with precision firepower and logistics.
Strategic Shift
The “Eagle in the Arm” doctrine reflects a larger global trend-militaries are moving towards tech-enabled soldiers. For India, this approach not only improves battlefield awareness but also reduces risks to human lives by pushing machines into high-threat zones first.
If successfully implemented, the initiative could give the Indian Army a significant edge in future warfare, positioning it among the world’s most technologically adaptive ground forces.
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