IAF chief calls for faster development, induction of indigenous drone technologies
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has urged for the rapid development and domestic production of indigenous drone technologies. He warned that reliance on foreign suppliers and delays in technological adoption could pose significant national security risks.
Why it matters
The push for 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliance) in defense technology is a strategic priority for India to maintain military readiness and sovereignty in modern warfare.
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh on Thursday (July 30, 2026) called for faster development and induction of indigenous drone technologies and other critical defence systems, warning that delays in adopting new technologies could leave the country at a disadvantage in future conflicts.
Addressing a workshop on unmanned and counter-drone systems organised by the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) in New Delhi, the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief stressed that innovations must move swiftly from laboratories to the battlefield.
“Technology delayed is technology denied,” Air Chief Marshal Singh said, emphasising that technological breakthroughs lose their strategic value if they were fielded only after other countries already advanced.
He also urged certification agencies to expedite testing and approvals to ensure timely induction of new capabilities into the armed forces.
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