Indian Air Force Chief Discusses Evolution of Drones and Multinational Exercises

New Delhi, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh of the Indian Air Force stated on Saturday that drones represent an evolutionary change rather than a revolutionary one for the military. He dismissed the notion of creating a separate drone force, emphasizing that these capabilities have been part of the Air Force for decades.

In an address to the media ahead of Air Force Day, Singh explained that loitering munitions serve to create confusion among adversaries and target specific objectives. He noted that the Indian Air Force has been utilizing drone technology for many years, asserting, “These capabilities have been with us for decades. Therefore, I can say that drones are not revolutionary for the Indian Air Force, but they are indeed evolutionary changes.”

Singh mentioned that the number of drones, munitions, and types of drone-related weapons within the Air Force is continuously increasing. However, he reiterated that there is no need for a separate drone force, stating, “I don’t think we need a separate drone force.” Instead, he advocated for integrating drones into the existing military framework alongside other weapon systems to enhance operational effectiveness.

The Air Chief Marshal confirmed that while there will be specialized drone units within the Air Force, the focus should be on using various weapons in conjunction rather than operating them separately. He indicated that while the concept of a distinct force has not been considered, the existing drone units could be expanded if needed.

Discussing the multinational air exercise ‘Taranag Shakti’, Singh highlighted the importance of such drills for fostering cooperation, interoperability, and learning from each other’s experiences. He noted that each exercise yields new insights and results, with new aircraft participating this time, including the F-35 fighter jet, which is taking part in a multinational exercise in India for the first time. Additionally, several new countries are joining the exercise with their military aircraft and resources, while others are participating as observers for the first time.

Singh pointed out the significance of developing a shared communication system during these exercises, enabling effective dialogue among the participating nations. He clarified that this goes beyond merely communicating in English; it involves understanding each other’s operational methods and messages.

He expressed optimism that the second phase of Taranag Shakti would provide the Indian Air Force with valuable lessons to improve its capabilities, while also benefiting the other countries involved. The exercise is being held at Jodhpur Airbase from September 26 to October 12, with over 2,000 military personnel and more than 80 aircraft from 40 countries participating.