The Indian Army is taking a decisive step to counter the escalating threat of Pakistan-backed terrorism in the Jammu sector by integrating Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) into its anti-terror operations.
This strategic move comes in response to a recent surge in casualties among security forces, attributed to ambushes carried out by militants trained by Pakistan's Special Service Group (SSG).
sUAS are anticipated to play a pivotal role in enhancing the Army's reconnaissance capabilities, providing real-time intelligence on terrorist hideouts and movements. This information will enable security forces to make more informed decisions, leading to more effective counter-terrorism operations.
Additionally, the potential to equip these drones with small payloads could provide a significant advantage, allowing for the neutralization of threats without risking the lives of soldiers.
Recognizing the growing importance of sUAS in modern warfare, a number of Indian companies have already risen to the challenge, developing and deploying various systems to meet the Army's demands. With several of these systems already in active use in the field, the Indian Army is expected to place further orders in the near future, solidifying its commitment to leveraging advanced technology in the fight against terrorism.
While the specific sUAS models being deployed by the Indian Army have not been publicly disclosed, several Indian companies are known to be active in this sector. These include ideaForge, which produces the SWITCH UAV, and Asteria Aerospace, which offers a range of drone solutions for defence and security applications. The increasing demand for sUAS in India has also led to the emergence of new players in the market, fostering a growing domestic drone industry.
