The proposal is expected to receive formal clearance from the Defence Acquisition Council later this month and is being viewed as a major leap in India’s preparedness for next-generation warfare.

Indian firms such as InsideFPV Ventures and Maharshi Industries are leading the market in producing affordable, high-precision kamikaze drones, with some units reportedly costing around $400 each.

The Indian Army’s decision draws heavily from operational lessons learned during India’s recent counter-terror operations, including Operation Sindoor, where unmanned aerial systems played a critical role in the precision targeting of terrorist hideouts across the Line of Control.

The Army has effectively used drones during Operation Sindoor, targeting terror headquarters inside Pakistan and neutralising 7 of 9 terrorist targets. The drones also attacked the Pakistan Army, causing massive damage and casualties.

Military planners believe the expanded use of loitering munitions will significantly improve the Armed Forces’ ability to carry out accurate, intelligence-driven strikes while minimising collateral damage.

Designed to hover over a designated area before striking a target with an onboard explosive payload, these drones offer a cost-effective and highly precise alternative to conventional weapon systems.