India Set to Place Over $2 Billion in Domestic Military Drone Orders
India is preparing to place military drone orders worth more than $2 billion with domestic manufacturers this year, marking the country’s largest procurement of unmanned aerial systems to date. According to Smit Shah, President of the Drone Federation India (DFI), the acquisition is in advanced stages and is expected to be carried out through a fast-track procurement process, with deliveries scheduled over the next 18 to 24 months. The planned orders would represent a significant increase from recent government contracts worth approximately 30 billion rupees ($313 million) for tactical-class drones.
The move comes amid growing recognition of the strategic value of drones in modern warfare. India’s military modernization efforts have accelerated following recent tensions with Pakistan, during which both countries deployed drones extensively, highlighting their effectiveness in surveillance and offensive operations. Global conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East, have further demonstrated the battlefield impact of low-cost unmanned systems, prompting armed forces worldwide to expand their drone capabilities.
India’s rapidly growing drone industry is expected to benefit significantly from the new procurement drive. More than 600 companies are currently involved in drone manufacturing and component production, including major firms such as Adani Group, Larsen & Toubro, and Tata Advanced Systems, alongside startups like ideaForge, NewSpace Research, and Asteria Aerospace. Supported by government initiatives promoting indigenous defence production, streamlined procurement procedures, and innovation-focused programs such as iDEX, the sector is witnessing increased investment, partnerships, and production capacity to meet rising military demand.
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